Monthly Newsletter, Vol 24, No. 2 – February 2020
Hollywood celebrities, sport stars, politicians and millionaires – nobody seems to be safe from COVID-19. But depending on where you live and what you do for a living, you may run a higher risk of contracting the virus. And if you do, the quality of care you receive and, indeed, your chances of survival may depend on the thickness of your wallet.
The global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is shaping up to be the worst since the tragically consequential Great Depression. Countless comparisons have been made between the current economic situation and the global financial crisis of 2008. Although similar in terms of their impact, especially on employment and income, key differences make the current crisis particularly dangerous.
To protect the lives of people, on a healthy planet – we must trust science. With more than 3 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 around the world, our global response to the pandemic requires a far more collaborative relationship between scientists and policymakers – and more public trust in science — according to a new policy brief issued by UN DESA.
Until a few weeks back, not many of us had heard phrases connected to our health and survival like “the apex”, “flattening the curve”, or staying at home to save lives. But these are unprecedented times. The world is facing one of the gravest health challenges in modern times. It is a time that can test our bonds and kindness towards one another, or it can bring us closer together in solidarity and compassion.
With around half of all the world’s population now under some sort of lockdown, sheltering from the deadly coronavirus, how can we keep the global economy from collapsing and save tens of millions from losing their jobs and falling into poverty? We ask UN Chief Economist and Assistant Secretary-General at UN DESA, Elliott Harris.
How is COVID-19 affecting our lives, economies and societies, and what is the path towards a sustainable recovery? More than 2,000 participants from 160 countries registered for a webinar on 9 April 2020 to find out. Broadcast simultaneously on WebEx and via Facebook Live, the event is part of UN DESA’s new webinar series on the economic and social impacts of COVID-19.
