The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had multi-layered socioeconomic effects on women and girls. Women have faced a surge in gender-based violence, exacerbated by confinement, overcrowding and socioeconomic insecurity. During lock-downs, women who carried out essential tasks, such as nurses, midwives, cleaners, and carers had to be at the forefront risking their health and safety, while their jobs continued to be devalued and underpaid. Those who stayed at home teleworking faced enormous pressure to be available and productive online, while also caring for others. The lock-downs increased the obstacles that women face in the labour market, rendering them more vulnerable to unemployment, precariousness, and loss of income. The medical emergency of COVID-19 led to a neglect of sexual and reproductive rights and as a result access to anti-natal, prenatal and natal care was severely restricted for many women and girls. Finally, the COVID-19 crisis has been used for anti-gender politics, with several examples of EU governments passing conservative legislation against abortion rights and religious groups advancing anti-gender and stigmatising rhetoric. Women experiencing multiple forms of discrimination because of age, ethnicity and race, sexual orientation and socio-economic status became more vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19. The lack of women in decision-making positions, including representation in scientific committees, as well as the absence of a feminist perspective, have led to a failure to mainstream gender equality in the responses to COVID-19…

Kambouri, N. (2020). Women and equality in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gender Five Plus.