Calling attention to rural communities so they are not left behind during the response to COVID-19
When crisis strikes, it is invariably the poor and vulnerable who suffer most – among them rural women and young people, and especially young girls. School closures and the need to care for sick family members increase workloads for many rural women and girls. And many women – most of whom are in informal and precarious jobs – take an economic hit as well. Exclusion and inequality are rising everywhere as a result. At this challenging time, the international community is called upon to mount a collective global COVID-19 response, to ensure that no one is left behind.
Read more: Full blog post
#IFADatwork: our mission in the time of COVID-19
Stop domestic violence
As stated by the United Nations Secretary-General, the combination of economic and social stresses brought on by the pandemic, together with restrictions on movement, have dramatically increased the numbers of women and girls facing abuse in almost all countries.
Women who are experiencing violence may find it helpful to reach out to supportive family and friends, contact a helpline or seek out local services. They may also find it useful to have a safety plan in case the violence escalates, to leave home immediately and shelter with a neighbour, friend or relative. IFAD recently organized an Interact session entitled Staying Informed, Protected and Healthy during COVID-19, reaffirming the importance of saying no to gender-based violence both as individuals and as an organization. Read more: Domestic Violence Resource for IFAD Staff
COVID-19 Gender update, by UN Women
For the latest updates on COVID-19 and gender equality, visit UN Women’s dedicated In Focus pages: Global | Africa | Arab States | Asia Pacific | Europe & Central Asia
This post will expire on Tuesday June 23rd, 2020 8:25am
