Bringing together global voices to discuss the role of women in the time of a global pandemic
I held my annual “blog breakfast” virtually in mid-May. While disappointing not to be together in person, the virtual breakfast made it possible for people to join from all over the world. The topics we discussed ranged from the impact of the COVID pandemic, how we can collectively seize this moment to make lasting change, and how we promote women’s leadership. I was pleased to discuss a wide range of questions with my friend, Stephenie Foster, and the many others who joined the event.
Clearly, the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis are the dominant features of 2020. These crises and their repercussions will be with us for some time. We must navigate our way through the next several months and meanwhile, start planning the future beyond COVID 19. Not only this, but we must also support those using their voices to fight racial injustice in the US and beyond.
Recognising gender disparity during a lockdown
We know that women and girls have been worst hit by the impact of COVID on loss of livelihoods. Not only are women working from home and managing families, they are also responsible for the homeschooling of their children. This stay at home structure has put some women face to face with violence, which has increased due to stress resulting from lockdown, and heightened mental health problems. The fallout of these issues will remain after lockdown and will remain after COVID-19. Not only do we need to educate young girls, but this must include educating men and boys.
Creating safety for those in need
Due to climate change and war, there has been an increased number of women and children are driven from their homes. 17.8 million people have been displaced through violence and protection. Britain is ensuring, both at home and abroad the importance of reproductive health services, to prevent dangerous, back alley abortions, HIV and other infections, and protection for high risk mothers and babies.
The UK has a proud history as an international leader despite the challenges that we are facing at home. The UK has committed to educating women and girls for the next five years, working to fund global research on therapeutic diagnosis and a vaccine for COVID. Britain is working to ensure that no one is left behind. We are working closely as members of the G7 and G20 to coordinate an increases support of vulnerable countries to give financial and health assistance to those in need. Britain has been working with partners in G20 to ensure crucial supply chains are open for food and medicine. The UK, along with other countries at the Gavi summit, has pledged to continue immunization for 19.4 million children.
A time for action
This pandemic perhaps is an opportunity for us to rethink how we combat these challenges, and what protocol we should use to create assistance and resolution.
The economic effects will continue to be significant. We must tackle gender inequality and eliminate the gender pay gap. This is a moment for women’s leadership and change. Going forward, we have to ensure that climate change and climate and social justice goes along side all policies, both in the UK and globally.
