Regional Workshop on The Development of Hotline Services to Support Professionals During the Covid-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating all forms of violence against women, particularly domestic violence, both globally and regionally. And, while we know that violence against women stems from unequal gender relations and is an expression of power and control, the current environment of lockdowns, social distancing, health concerns and economic insecurity has compounded matters. 

For these reasons, women and girls across the region are in need of life saving services. Now, more than ever, domestic violence services – including hotlines, shelters, psycho-social counselling, and children’s services – need to be regarded as essential services. 

Domestic violence hotlines and child helplines can serve as a lifeline. They are often the first point of contact for survivors and their access to services. And now, in the era of social distancing and reduced movement, they play an even more important role in providing much need advice, information, support and crisis counselling for survivors of violence.

Across the region, we are seeing unique and creative forms of emerging best practice. Member States are working in partnership with women’s civil society, healthcare providers, and justice providers to reach survivors. While there is much room to improve, the information that is to be shared during this webinar highlights the strength and commitment of the region to combatting violence against women and children.  

In support of these efforts, the UN in Saudi Arabia cohosted a webinar with The National Family Safety Program with the participation of the following UN agencies: ESCWA, UNDP, UNFPA, UN Women & UNICEF. The webinar focused on the development of hotline services to support professionals working during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The webinar was attended by 258 professionals across the region, it covered a range of topics with an overview of regional and global practices to address emerging needs for professional support hotline services in violence reporting centers during the Covid-19 pandemic. The webinar also discussed National Family Safety Program’s experience with the child helplines during the pandemic and the capacity building of professionals working to support the hotline services.