Covid-19 and the increase in domestic violence in a vulnerable territory: a community-based response

Abstract

Domestic violence has its roots in gender inequalities and the concentration of power, which became even more evident with the pandemic of the new coronavirus (covid-19). Given this scenario, this paper discusses the increase in domestic violence in Vila dos Pescadores during the pandemic and the coping mechanisms employed by the community. The research comprised two phases: 1) a documentary analysis based on articles, texts and data on domestic violence and the covid-19 pandemic, including the territory studied; 2) a fieldwork in which semi-structured interviews and conversation circles were conducted. Data were analyzed based on Depth Hermeneutics, proposed by Thompson. Results showed that, despite the inefficiency of attention and care provided by the State, community-based institutions present in the neighborhood played an important role in confronting dramatic experiences of distress and abandonment of women in vulnerable situations. This was achieved by the implementation of a community-based association, a space for sensitive listening and user embracement, and other referrals, such as health protection and justice services.