1.The Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa, Lucy Asuagbor, has issued a statement raising concerns about violations of women's rights during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what govts shd do to protect women and girls. https://achpr.org/pressrelease/detail?id=495… @ACHPR

2. She notes that women and girls, by virtue of their sex, bear the brunt of any crises and that existing inequalities for women and girls become more pronounced during crises.

3. In particular, the special rapporteur notes with concern the high level of complaints of violence against women, and challenges around accessing sexual and reproductive health services.

4. She urges govts to adopt the principle of equality in all COVID-19 related responses; ensure women's participation in all response measures; protect rights to sexual and reproductive health & provide victims of domestic violence with necessary medical & counseling services.

5. Noting the economic impact of the pandemic on women, she urges govts to provide financial support to women who have lost their livelihoods, and to implement gender-sensitive post-COVID-19 economic recovery programs.
@ACHPR @hrw