The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Violence Against Girl Children: A Study on Victims Presented for Medico-Legal Examination at two major Hospitals in the Western Province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Introduction

The lockdown resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic caused many negative impacts on the lives of people, especially children. Among such negative consequences, sexual violence (SV) is commonly reported globally.

Materials and methods

A comparative retrospective, descriptive study on girl child victims of SV, who presented to two major hospitals in Sri Lanka during the period of lockdown and immediately before, was conducted.

Results

Among the total of 260 victims, there were 120 pre-lockdown and 140 during the lockdown. Even though the perpetrator was the romantic partner in the majority of cases during both periods, a significant number of relatives were involved as perpetrators during the lockdown (p = 0.001). There was a significant difference in crime location, with a higher incidence at the victim's residence during lockdown. In contrast, places other than the residence were commonly used before the lockdown (P = 0.0423). Delay in complaining to the Police was observed in both groups, with 41% during the lockdown and 33% in the pre-lockdown period. There was a significantly higher chance of delayed presentations when the perpetrator was someone other than the romantic partner (P = 0.0201). The medical evidence of vaginal penetration was present in a significantly higher proportion of victims during lockdown compared to pre-lockdown(P = 0.0216).

Conclusions

The prolonged lockdown resulted in significant risks to innocent, dependent girl children, behind the closed doors of their own homes and through their very own caregivers. The need to have community services to ensure the safety of girl children, especially in such situations, is highlighted.