Because of the corona crisis, it can no longer be reliably checked whether children are being abused. The WHO warns of the consequences.
Copenhagen (dpa) - The European Office of the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of an increase in domestic violence in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
Several European countries such as Belgium, France, Spain and the UK have reported increases in interpersonal violence against women, men and children, WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge said at his weekly online press conference in Copenhagen. Some states reported a significant increase in women who were subjected to violence by their partner in April.
During the pandemic and the associated measures, people experienced, among other things, impairments in the social environment, uncertainties and financial burdens, said Kluge. There is still no excuse for violence - be it physical, sexual, emotional or any other kind.
"Violence is not a private matter," said Kluge. Anyone who is watching cases should report this immediately. Those affected should never consider themselves guilty. "Violence against you is never your fault. Your home should be a safe place," said Kluge. Governments also have a moral obligation to counter this form of violence. "Violence is avoidable, not inevitable."
