COVID-19 and Gender-Based Violence Globally: U.S. Government Response Must Address Gender-Based Violence

COVID-19 has already had undeniable impacts on women, girls, and others around the world, including genderbased violence. In just the first few weeks of the crisis, communities globally – including in the United States – have witnessed an increase in gender-based violence (GBV) such as intimate partner violence while struggling with the loss of traditional safety networks, resources, and services. The physical, mental and social impacts of GBV are not only personal to the victim but also have the potential to hinder emergency response efforts and may impede longterm recovery.