Beyond COVID-19: The imperative for transformative change

Since COVID-19 was declared a pandemic, 18 months ago, it has claimed more than 4 million lives1, destroyed countless livelihoods and forced the global economy to its knees. With an end still out of sight, the crisis has already taken a disproportionate toll on women and girls. As countries locked down, rates of domestic abuse spiralled upwards. With more girls out of school, child marriage and female genital mutilation will likely rise. As the health crisis morphed into a fullblown economic recession, women bore the brunt of job losses, seeing their economic autonomy stifled and their poverty risk rise. As health systems have struggled to stem the onslaught of cases, and schools and care services have shut down, women have stepped in to provide support for families and communities, often at the expense of their own mental and physical health.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Gender Equality

Reduced Inequalities

Good Health and Well-Being