By Sitong Hui, IV Form

What impact has the pandemic had on women’s rights in the developing world? 

Introduction 

Throughout human history, movements advocating equal rights between men and women have made up humanities. Women who seek independence and equality have countless devotions on this arduous journey. From Africa to America, abolishing slavery, winning suffrage, and gaining political power are main aspects of female rights. While the feminist movements around the world have made tremendous progress in the past few decades, the recent COVID-19 pandemic has posed challenges and resulted in major drawbacks to women’s status in many parts of the world. 

The essay is aimed to provide information and analysis on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women’s rights in developing countries. It also explains some exemplary methods certain countries are using to soothe the situation faced by women. The essay will outline three major threats to women with detailed supporting evidence, and give out a final conclusion that incorporates a short analysis of prospective development. 

COVID-19 Pandemic’s Impact on Women’s Rights 

● Women’s Economic Rights in the Asymmetric Unemployment Shock 

One of the most immediate impacts on women brought by the pandemic is the economic disadvantage. According to data released by the European Parliament (2021), about 84% of working women are facing the threat of being unemployed. The recession following the virus outbreak has caused considerable unemployment in many countries, but this effect was largely asymmetric across genders.