Work

Children's Vulnerability to Sexual Violence During COVID-19 in Kenya: Recommendations for the Future

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: This article discusses the latest research that reveals that children seem to be facing new risks of sexual violence in Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence suggests there have been changes in patterns of sexual offenses against children coincident with lockdowns, curfews, and school closures. In particular, emerging evidence from Kenya suggests that child victims are younger, more likely to be victimized by a neighbor in a private residence, and in the daytime, compared to pre-pandemic. We conclude that situational crime prevention strategies that focus on providing alternative safe venues to reduce offending opportunities must be a central part of a public health approach to reduce children's vulnerability during crises such as COVID-19.

Source: Frontiers in Global Women s Health

DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.630901

Authors: Laura Stevens, James Rockey, Sarah Rockowitz, Wangu Kanja, Melissa Fay Colloff, Heather D Flowe

Institution: University of Birmingham

Language: English

Topic: Sexual Assault and Victimization Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Gender equality

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,900