Speaking to SBS Greek, Tina Katsipis from PRONIA’s Access and Support program says that the mandatory stay at home period during the pandemic has exacerbated the already severe problem.
“We know that in times of crisis, as happened also during the bushfires, family violence incidents increase […] We also use past research to draw these preliminary conclusions”.
The prevalence of social taboos within the Greek community around the issue, as well as the “non realization by some [victims] that they are in fact experiencing a family violence situation”, are amongst the reasons explaining a lower rate of reports than the estimated actual incidents.
“The reality is different[…] And some might even hesitate to speak out thinking there is no way to get help”.
This is why Ms Katsipis reiterates the importance of knowing that family violence goes beyond physical abuse and for the public to be reassured that support options are available during the pandemic too.
“If anyone needs to leave their home now during the COVID-19 conditions they can and those services they can get support from are still there.”
Please note this podcast is in Greek.
