Domestic violence in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: A national and international analysis

The risk of an exacerbation of domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic has been reported in national and international contexts. Through a review of official sources, scientific literature and press reports, the phenomenon has been investigated in order to identify its peculiarities with regard to health-related and medico-legal issues, as well as to highlight the counteracting measures introduced at national and international level. Our study allows to affirm that during the pandemic there has been an increase in cases of domestic violence compared to a reduction in new requests for help. A lack of evidence emerged particularly for child and elder abuse, under-reported even before the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 pandemic and counteracting measures may cause a change in the characteristics of domestic violence, with the development of “new” elements of interest for healthcare professionals and, particularly, for forensic specialists, who will in the future intervene and provide evaluation of domestic violence cases. It is essential not only to strengthen the already existing measures of contrast, but also to introduce new counteracting tools, such as the creation of new multimedia platforms to inform and report cases of domestic abuse, the reorganization of shelters and safe houses, the employment of law enforcement officers for preventive purposes and the involvement of the community with awareness campaigns on this public health issue.