Links in issuable sidebar do not pass color audit

WCAG 1.4.1 Use of Color requirements state:

1.4.1 Use of Color: Color is not used as the only visual means of conveying information, indicating an action, prompting a response, or distinguishing a visual element. (Level A)

The links in our issuable sidebar (for issues, merge requests, and epics) do not meet this requirement, and further are inconsistent with other not only other links on GitLab (ie within the issue) but also are inconsistent throughout the sidebar. How might we make link styling and interactions in the sidebar look more actionable and meet accessibility standards?