One virus, diverse impacts: the pandemic and women in central and eastern Europe, 16 July 2020

Against the backdrop of its specific histories, the impact of the pandemic on women particularly in the Balkans also demands specific attention...

Women have borne a sizeable burden of the pressures of the pandemic and the lockdown. They comprise most medical staff, caregivers, domestic workers, teachers, service and social workers. Lockdown measures have resulted in multiple problems for women and families—from domestic violence and increased childcare challenges, including home education, to financial hardships, especially for part-time and seasonal workers.

Through recognising these differentiated needs and applying a gender-sensitive lens to the recovery strategies and the associated deployment of European Union resources, we can ensure gender-equality concerns are mainstreamed in future policies...