20 May 2020 | Report

COVID-19 and Women’s Economic Participation

Literature Review, Women's Economic Empowerment

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Summary

This report delivers a rapid analysis on the impact of COVID-19 on women’s economic participation in Southeast Asia. It examines how the pandemic has affected women in the workplace, female entrepreneurs, and gender norms across Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Myanmar. The report identifies common themes such as increased economic vulnerability for women, exacerbation of pre-existing inequalities, and a lack of gender-specific responses in crisis management. It provides strategic recommendations for policy measures and business practices to support women’s formal employment, entrepreneurial activities, and unpaid care work, emphasising the need for gender-sensitive recovery strategies to promote inclusive economic growth.

Highlights

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected women, especially those in feminized sectors like retail, hospitality, and manufacturing.
Pre-existing gender inequalities have been worsened by the crisis, impacting women’s economic security, health outcomes, and career prospects.
Government and business recovery strategies have largely overlooked gender-specific needs, risking further setbacks in gender equality.
The report calls for integrating gender-sensitive policies in recovery strategies, supporting women’s formal employment, entrepreneurial activities, and unpaid care work.
Promoting gender equality in response strategies can lead to productivity gains and inclusive economic growth.