The Role of International Organizations in Addressing Gender-Based Violence During COVID-19: A Case Study of the United Nations Population Fund in Ghana

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified gender-based violence (GBV) globally, particularly in developing nations where existing gender inequalities and socioeconomic vulnerabilities have been exacerbated. This study examines the effectiveness of the United Nations Population Fund's (UNFPA) interventions in addressing GBV in Ghana during the pandemic period, positing that UNFPA's intervention strategies were effective in mitigating increased GBV risks and providing essential support services to survivors, despite facing contextual challenges and resource constraints. Drawing on feminist institutional theory and the social ecological model to analyze how institutional responses to GBV are shaped by gender power dynamics and multiple societal levels of influence, the research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques. Using purposive sampling, the study engaged 150 respondents through surveys, semi-structured in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions, with data analysis employing NVivo software for qualitative thematic analysis and statistical tools for quantitative data. Key findings reveal that the pandemic significantly increased GBV prevalence, with 78% of respondents reporting higher incidents, particularly in domestic violence (65%), emotional abuse (55%), and economic violence (48%). UNFPA's response demonstrated substantial impact, with helpline usage increasing by 75% and online counseling services growing by 150%. The organization's culturally sensitive approach was validated by 78% of respondents, while their digital initiatives reached significant populations, including 50,000 mobile app downloads. The study concludes that UNFPA's multi-faceted intervention strategy effectively adapted to pandemic-related challenges through technological innovation and cultural sensitivity, though geographic disparities in service accessibility persisted. Recommendations include strengthening rural service delivery mechanisms, developing sustainable funding models for long-term program viability, and expanding digital support services while maintaining traditional access points. The findings have significant policy implications, contributing to three new national policies and increased budget allocations for GBV programs in Ghana, while providing a framework for international organizations responding to GBV during crisis periods