Studies show that restrictions on movement as a result of COVID-19 have triggered increased levels of gender-based violence, including abuse that is facilitated by information and communications technology (ICT). We refer to this as online GBV or OGBV throughout this site. During this complicated time, gender-based violence has been deemed a ‘secondary’ or ‘shadow pandemic’. This is problematic, because the continued violation of women must be reframed as an issue of utmost importance at all times. As countries across the world continue to allocate resources  to the pandemic response, we must also prioritise the protection of women who have experienced harm of all types, and ensure that medical, social, and legal resources and support are accessible to them.

The abuse of women in digital spaces, and the infringement of their rights to privacy, dignity, and freedom of expression, amongst other fundamental human rights, is only increasing, but appropriate responses which take into account violence perpetrated over digital platforms are still largely lacking.

Endgbv.africa was created to monitor countries’ responses to GBV on- and offline during the pandemic (and beyond). Through this mapping, the site will identify gaps in law and policy and, in time, advocate for change. Civil society and law-makers can use the site to access important information on the measures taken by African governments before and during the COVID-19 pandemic to address GBV.

We hope that this research helps to uncover the circumstances in each country on the continent and can ultimately be used to advocate for positive change.