In Iraq, as elsewhere, the coronavirus pandemic is having severe impacts on the population, but women and men are affected in different ways. The Oxfam gender analysis shows that women in three sample areas of the country are facing an increase in the burden of domestic work and caring responsibilities, a heightened risk of domestic and gender-based violence, and greater loss of economic livelihoods and autonomy. They also face greater difficulties in accessing health and support services, due to restrictions on movement and constrictive social norms, as well as limited decision-making power, and lack of information on coronavirus itself.

In April and May 2020, Oxfam Iraq conducted a gender analysis to document the gendered impacts of coronavirus in Kirkuk, and Diyala and Sulaimaniyah. The methodology comprised of secondary data analysis and primary data collection. Quantitative data was collected using a survey questionnaire administered via phone calls to 207 individuals. Qualitative data was collected through 20 key informant interviews. Validation workshops were organised with Oxfam in Iraq staff and partners to further analyse the findings.