Georgia Works to Stop the Rise in Domestic Violence During Lockdown

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, the Georgian government is not losing sight of the work it has been doing to tackle domestic violence. More so as the pattern of increasing abuse due to the coronavirus lockdowns is already noticeable worldwide.

The government’s press office today reported: “As of now, there is no evidence of increased domestic abuse in Georgia. The state remains alert, as the social and economic risks are heightened in this time of crisis. The hotline 116 006 and the Emergency Response Service 112 continue to operate 24 hours a day. Psychological and legal consultation is provided in eight languages, free of charge.”

Victims of domestic abuse may use the application ‘112 Georgia’ through its silent alarm (SOS) and text chat services, in case they are not able to talk. The application can be downloaded on Android phones and iPhone for free, and is available in Georgian, English and Russian languages.

Around the world, as countries go into lockdown to stem the spread of the new pathogen, many vulnerable groups and individuals have virtually no escape from their abusers. The overall rate of domestic abuse has picked up significantly. 

Reacting to this situation, the Chair of the EP Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality, Evelyn Regner, said: “These days and the weeks ahead are especially dangerous for women. We are all facing major psychological challenges through isolation or quarantine, but women and sometimes children in unsafe homes are facing a particularly gruelling stress test. I urge all EU member states to tackle this problem with determination and to communicate actively where and how those affected can get help. This must also include simple ways to contact and to alert the police, such as text messages or online chats, and the use of code words with doctors or pharmacists. In addition, more places in violence protection facilities and women's shelters must be made available.’’

The heightened threat to the victims of domestic abuse was a predictable side effect of the coronavirus lockdowns. In many countries there have been calls to ensure continuity in service provision and to keep offering support and protection to those in need. What counts now is not just what we are against, but what we are for.

By Elene Dzebisashvili