Key Considerations for Integrating Gender Equality into Health Emergency and Disaster Response: COVID-19, 4 June 2020

Abstract

This document highlights key considerations for integrating gender equality into health emergency and disaster response, particularly in the context of COVID-19. Due to existing gender-based inequalities, specific and combined vulnerabilities, unequal access to information and early warnings, and varying national capacities and experiences, it is necessary to address different needs, both across and within populations, in the response to COVID-19 and other health emergencies. The response to COVID-19 should integrate a gender-responsive approach, while considering other social, economic, environmental, geographic, ethnic, and cultural factors that affect how the disease is differentially impacting individuals, groups, and populations, including gender-diverse groups.