Gender and Social Protection in the COVID-19 Economic Recovery: Opportunities and Challenges
Executive summary

This paper analyses the potential contribution of social protection to a gender-transformative economic
recovery over the medium term, defined as running from the present to the end of 2022. It builds on the
existing Social Protection Approaches to COVID-19 Expert (SPACE) advice publication; SPACE Social
Protection in the COVID-19 Recovery: Opportunities and Challenges. Over the next two years (2021-2),
economic recovery in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis will be a key focus for governments and
international organisations. Although taking place under challenging circumstances, including that of the
climate crisis, this moment presents an important opportunity to design economic recovery plans that
take into consideration the specific impacts of the crisis on women and put in place measures to support
women in re-establishing economic security. This piece is intended as a tool for evidence-based,
inclusive policy responses, and to equip gender equality and social protection actors to better advocate
for a gender-transformative recovery.

Alfers, L., Holmes, R., McCrum, C., Quarterman, L. (2021) ‘ Gender and Social Protection in the COVID-19
Economic Recovery: Opportunities and Challenges’, Social Protection Approaches to COVID-19 Expert Advice Service
(SPACE), DAI Global UK Ltd, United Kingdom