In recent months, many countries across the world imposed mandatory lockdown measures to check the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Economic and social activities ground to a halt. Millions lost their job. Many lost family members and friends. The world is still straining under the effects of the pandemic – some of which are still emerging.
One group of people that have been severely affected during the lockdown are victims of domestic violence and abuse. Many of whom were and perhaps are still trapped at home with their abusers which may include partners or family relatives.
Widespread media reports indicate a rise in domestic violence and other forms of abuse during this period, with emphasis on the impact on women and children.
While most countries provide services to aid victims of abuse, many religious, charity and NGOs supplement government efforts by providing alternative support options. One example is the child protection office run by the Society of Jesus in Africa.
In an interview with Vatican News, the Protection Coordinator of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM), Beatrice Mumbi, discusses the important task of protection of children and vulnerable adults, particularly in extraordinary situations such as this global health crisis.
Mumbi encourages everyone to be involved in the protection of children and vulnerable adults. She notes sadly that a lot of times, people act like they do not see abuse situations or pretend like it is none of their business. Mumbi points out that “if everybody felt that it is their duty to protect children as well as vulnerable adults, things will be very different.”
“The public needs to proactively challenge abusive practices, the public also needs to actively intervene in cases of abuse,” Mumbi said.
She added that “we are all born with God-ordained dignity and if we appreciated everybody and respected the dignity of everybody – including children and the vulnerable, then we will begin creating a culture that allows children to live a life free from violence and abuse.” Vatican News
