Intersectionality and Intimate Partner Violence: Risk Factors and Vulnerabilities During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Other Humanitarian Emergencies

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) presents significant global health, human rights, and protection challenges, particularly during emergencies. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic exacerbated preexisting social inequalities, including those related to gender, race/ethnicity, and class, and led to an increase in IPV due to lockdown measures and economic stressors. This study aims to examine risk factors contributing to increased IPV among women and girls during COVID-19 mitigation strategies, explore the intersectional vulnerabilities of Black women in this setting, and compare IPV prevalence during the pandemic with other crises such as natural disasters and conflict settings. The review synthesized existing research to answer two primary questions. A comprehensive search was conducted across 11 databases. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed, published in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, and included women aged 15 years or older. Data extraction and quality assessments were performed by independent reviewers using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. The findings revealed that IPV rates increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to risk factors such as economic stress, social isolation, and lack of access to healthcare. Vulnerabilities were particularly pronounced for women and girls from marginalized groups, including Black women, who experienced compounded effects of race, class, and gender. The analysis also found similar patterns of increased IPV during other emergencies, including natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Key barriers to protection from IPV included limited access to resources, social and community support, and discrimination at a societal level. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that address the specific needs of women experiencing IPV during crises, with a particular focus on marginalized groups. Recommendations include strengthening support systems, improving access to healthcare and protection networks, promoting anti-racist and equity-focused policies, and enhancing data collection methodologies. Addressing the intersectional nature of vulnerabilities is crucial to developing effective, culturally appropriate solutions to protect women and girls during crises.