Pandemic Unleashes Wave of Violence as Anxiety and Stress Reach Breaking Point

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to individuals and families around the world, with anxiety and stress reaching breaking point. As a result, a new crisis is emerging: violence.

The Impact on Women

According to a recent report, women are being disproportionately affected by the spread of COVID-19 due to their primary role as household and family caregivers. This added responsibility is exacerbating existing gender-based inequalities, with many women struggling to access financial resources and maintain control over their lives.

Government Response

The government has introduced measures to mitigate these effects, including the Bayanihan Law, which provides emergency cash assistance (ECA) to cushion the impact of economic shutdowns on poor and vulnerable individuals. However, gender relations within households may worsen due to the stresses posed by the pandemic.

To address this issue, a proposed $500 million Expanded Social Assistance Project aims to safeguard women’s access to financial resources and provide additional support during the COVID-19 crisis. The project will also ensure that indigenous peoples are consulted and aware of the support provided by the government, as well as implement measures to prevent violence against women.

Violence on the Rise

The pandemic has led to a surge in violent incidents, with many people struggling to cope with the stress and anxiety caused by the crisis. A recent study found that 69.6% of households headed by female grantees are being affected by the pandemic, highlighting the need for targeted support.

Risks and Challenges

The report highlights several risks and challenges associated with the pandemic, including:

Insecurity of employment
Underemployment
Retrenchment
Core labor standards

To mitigate these risks, the government has introduced measures to provide emergency cash assistance to poor and vulnerable individuals, as well as implement labor market reforms to protect workers.

Monitoring and Evaluation

The project will be monitored and evaluated regularly to ensure its effectiveness in addressing the crisis. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will prepare quarterly and annual progress reports, as well as semi-annual safeguards monitoring reports.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to individuals and families around the world. As the crisis continues to unfold, it is essential that governments and organizations work together to provide support and protection to those most affected. The proposed Expanded Social Assistance Project is a crucial step in addressing the crisis and mitigating its impact on vulnerable populations.