Assessing People’s Perceptions of Covid-19 and Domestic Violence against Women in Rwanda, Huye District:Case Study of Family Circle Love Lab Organization

Abstract

This study assesses people’s perceptions of Covid-19 and domestic violence against women in the Huye District of Rwanda through a case study of the Family Circle Love Lab Organization (FCLLO). Additionally, this study seeks to understand the causes and effects of domestic violence on women during the Covid-19 period, exploring how Covid-19 resulted in domestic violence against women, and determining the approach used by the FCLLO to adapt its strategies for supporting women experiencing domestic violence in Rwanda. A qualitative descriptive methodology is used in this study, and data are obtained via documentation and interviews. Eleven participants are purposively selected, and their research data are analysed qualitatively using content analysis. The findings of this study revealed cases of domestic violence during the Covid-19 pandemic due to unemployment, alcohol abuse, food scarcity, lockdown, and depression. These findings indicate that unwanted pregnancy and depression are the main effects of Covid-19 due to an increase in proximity between partners during the lockdown. The mechanisms used by the FCLLO to support women include but are not limited to trauma healing, conflict resolution through mediation, and assistance in developing resilience and confidence.