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When the pandemic struck Sri Lanka, those who faced some of its most severe and unforeseen impacts, were women. As women who were largely part of the informal sector began losing their livelihoods, the pandemic exposed the deep, structural inequalities that exist within our social and economic systems. COVID-19 posed not only a threat to livelihoods; resulting from inadequate social protection systems. But also posed a threat to women’s security as violence against women increased in the country.
With COVID-19 being a new reality, there is a fundamental need to understand the challenges posed by the pandemic through the lens of the ‘Women, Peace, and Security agenda which provides a framework for sustainable peace amidst a global crisis. There exists an urgent need for women’s rights, leadership, and economic empowerment to be at the forefront of recovery.
To support these efforts, UN Women in Sri Lanka together with the State Ministry of Women and Child Development, Pre-Schools & Primary Education, School Infrastructure & Education Services, with support from the Government of Japan, provides targeted capacity building and in-kind support for women affected by the pandemic, to start their own businesses through training ranging from financial literacy to business planning. These efforts ensure that women and girls in Sri Lanka are economically empowered and resilient in the face of crises, now and in the future.
Understanding women’s socio-economic needs and priorities are the first steps towards an inclusive recovery process.
Captured are real stories of women who have been affected by the pandemic in Sri Lanka.
