PHYSICAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: COMPARISON OF THE INCIDENCE OF REPORTED CASES BEFORE AND DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN THE CITY OF CASCAVEL, PARANÁ

Abstract

Recommended by the World Health Organization as the most effective measure to contain the spread of COVID-19, social isolation has exacerbated factors contributing to the rise in violence against women. This study aimed to analyze cases of physical violence against women during the pre-pandemic period and the pandemic period in the municipality of Cascavel, Paraná. The work is justified by the need to understand the impact of COVID-19 pandemic social isolation on the incidence and patterns of physical violence against women. It is a descriptive and retrospective study that analyzed cases of physical violence against women from 2017 to 2022 in the municipality of Cascavel, Paraná. Based on the final collected sample, 1,086 cases of physical violence against women were reported during the analyzed period. There was a 35.56% increase in cases of physical violence against women during the pandemic, notably with the number of cases reported at home rising from 318 to 440 (an increase of 38%). It is essential to recognize and combat this deeply ingrained structure to ensure gender equality, promote respect for women's human rights, and create a fairer and safer society for all.