The Shadow Pandemic: COVID-19 and Gender Insecurity in Uganda

Abstract Globally, COVID-19 was framed a security issue and thus response measures were likened to military struggles against an adversary because of its devastating socio-economic effects. Adopting a theoretical tool – securitisation characterised by preventive measures such as restricted movements, closure of public spaces, curfew and social distancing, the approach proved insensitive to gender security. For instance, from heightened use of violence and discrimination to increased economic insecurity and financial distress, men and women have disproportionately dealt with insecurity rooted in social construction of roles. Using secondary sources of literature, the paper exposed how COVID-19 and, consequently, the preventive measures deepened gender insecurity through the adoption of a theoretical tool – securitisation that is gender insensitive. From the reviewed documents, COVID-19 intensified gender insecurity through straining financial and economic conditions; exposure to violence and discrimination; and increased cases of domestic violence. The paper argued that, to avoid entrenchment of the already existing gender inequalities, the securitisation approach must be enhanced with a gendered lens to security.