COVID-19 and the new threats of domestic violence in Japan

The Coronavirus pandemic has had serious consequences in Japan and the rest of the world. Some of these effects, such as the economic impact on countries, are obvious if still devastating. The stress and anxiety caused by the pandemic can also take a psychological toll. This was especially true during Japan’s State of Emergency earlier this year when residents were requested to stay at home as much as possible.

Homes unsafe for women during State of Emergency

One unfortunate side effect of such requests has been an increase in domestic violence and abuse. Reports of domestic violence have increased worldwide this year. Countries such as France have seen as much as a 30% increase in domestic violence since their stay at home orders. Asian countries in particular have seen a rise in cases. The United Nations has referred to this as a “shadow pandemic.”

According to Japan’s Gender Equality Bureau Cabinet Office, domestic violence reports saw a sharp increase in April and May, the time of Japan’s State of Emergency. April had a 29% increase and May had a 20% increase.

There are several reasons for this. However, the Coronavirus pandemic has likely made existing gender equality problems worse. One common reason cited for Japan is the loss of income caused by the COVID-19 situation. While the link can not be proved in all cases, some domestic assaults reported on the news have been clearly linked to income-related strife. Men who feel that women are lesser, or who feel that their own worth is tied to their earnings potential, may lash out under these circumstances.

Less support available for domestic violence victims

What made such abuse worse during the State of Emergency, and other stay at home orders worldwide, is that there were fewer places that provide support for women. School and government shutdowns mean that important consultation services may be inaccessible. This can make victims feel as if there is nowhere to go.

One notable step taken to support women was allowing them to apply for Japan’s stimulus payments on their own, even if they are not the head of household. However, such applicants still needed proof from a consultation office that they were living away from home due to domestic violence.

Any large scale event such as a pandemic is going to have various effects. The more obvious consequences, such as the economic impact, sometimes overshadow the ripple effects.

The increase in domestic abuse in Japan and other countries is a devastating side effect of Stay Home orders that were nevertheless necessary to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus. The pandemic may have made existing social problems worse. However, it is also necessary for effective support systems to remain in place in such a difficult time.

There is a way to reach out and stay connected

Thankfully, there has been some government response in Japan. Earlier this year they established the consultation service Domestic Violence Hotline Plus. The service allows women in need to consult about their cases in various languages and mediums. They can send emails and use chat or social media if, for some reason, they are unable to use a phone.

Remote services obviously can not solve the underlying gender equality issues behind domestic violence. However, they are an example of how technology can be used to provide necessary social support when in person help is less accessible. They can provide support to women in need during an incredibly difficult period.

[Hotline] Domestic Violence Hotline Plus
[Reference] NHK