The COVID-19 pandemic will affect all aspects of life in the Arab region and globally. Women will undoubtedly bear a disproportionate burden in terms of the health risks posed by the virus in the Arab region.

In light of these projections, the Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) and partner United Nations agencies have prepared proposals on formulating consistent policies and programmes for the short and long term, as part of an urgent regional response to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women. For this response to be effective, it must take into consideration the social prejudices and gender norms that discriminate against women in the public and private spheres in the Arab region