Gender-based and domestic violence during COVID-19: multilevel dynamics in Colombia and Venezuela

Background

Gender-based and domestic violence (GBV/DV) intensified during COVID-19, yet qualitative evidence from Colombia and Venezuela remains limited, particularly for women and LGBTQ+ populations. We explored how pandemic conditions shaped violence and responses across socioecological levels.

Methods

This secondary qualitative analysis used data from a mixed-methods sensemaking study conducted in urban and rural regions of Colombia (Bogotá, La Guajira) and Venezuela (Caracas, Falcón) from August 2024 to January 2025. From 2,591 micronarratives, 69 describing GBV/DV, violence, or discrimination were identified. Data were analyzed in NVivo using thematic analysis and interpreted through a socioecological lens.

Results

Two key themes emerged:1) Pandemic conditions that exacerbated GBV/DV and 2) Coping, resistance, and protective strategies. Using a socioecological lens, GBV/DV arose from interacting dynamics across levels. At the individual level: income loss, housing insecurity, migration, COVID-19 infection, and identity-based stigma increased vulnerability, sometimes leading to financial dependence, unsafe living conditions, and high-risk survival strategies. These intersected with relational dynamics, where lockdowns intensified coercive control, reinforced gender norms, and heightened household conflict. At the structural level: mobility restrictions, discriminatory policies, and limited services constrained protection, amplifying risks. Survivors relied mainly on informal networks, while formal protection was rare. Violence occurred mainly within family and partner relationships.

Conclusions

GBV/DV during COVID-19 in Colombia and Venezuela emerged from interacting determinants across socioecological levels. Findings highlight how crises amplify structural inequalities and expose gaps in protection systems. Preparedness efforts should strengthen inclusive, community-based, and accessible responses for women, LGBTQ+ people, and migrants in crisis settings.

Key messages

• GBV/DV during COVID-19 arose from interacting socioecological factors, where individual, relational, and structural conditions reinforced vulnerability and limited access to protection.

• Crisis preparedness must integrate inclusive, multilevel GBV/DV responses that strengthen community support and ensure accessible protection for women, LGBTQ+ people, and migrants.