Violence against women: Programmatic vulnerability in times of SARS-COV-2 / COVID-19 in sao paulo

Abstract

The article discusses the challenges of assisting violence against women (VAW) at the beginning of the SARS-CoV-2/Covid-19 crisis. Key informants from public support services in the city of Sao Paulo were interviewed and emphasized how the health-crisis intensified the violence synergy co-produced by increasing social vulnerability. The results indicate a contradictory programmatic response to the unprecedented psychosocial context marked by a sharp reduction in family income and a rise in alcohol and drug abuse. With government officials individualizing the VAW without offering sufficient support programs to maintain the distance/isolation necessary to prevent SARSCoV-2/Covid-19, women's demand for services have decreased despite the fact that the complaints have increased. Service users were increasingly deprived of the access to remote communication, while professionals were using personal cells and resources to attend them, without ethical confidentiality protocols. The foreseen challenges include expanding the intersectoral network and mental health services.