GC Human Rights Preparedness

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically emphasised the fact that we are facing an existential crisis with multiple emergencies. This contribution highlights some of the core assumptions that have led to an unsustainable lifestyle based on inequality and the destruction of life.

An effective social assistance programme is a must for countries around the world, including Indonesia, to make sure the most vulnerable groups in society are fully taken care of. Indonesia’s experience of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 illustrates the key role that local government can play in this regard, in particular how it can harness technology in the service of human rights.

Women are hit particularly hard by the pandemic for a myriad of reasons. Reflecting on a webinar featuring three prominent Right Livelihood Laureates, this contribution highlights the need for embracing a feminist perspective aimed at societal transformation as a prerequisite for crisis preparedness.

The worldwide spread of COVID-19 has highlighted the relationship between global health law and human rights. However, a recent court case in Kenya reveals the intrinsic link between inequalities and economic concerns capable of limiting national and international rights standards.

The COVID-19 pandemic created an environment in which spaces for critical reflection are shrinking even more. Movements however are finding ways to remain active by going online to build sustainable strategic systems and, ultimately, better prepare for future democratic action.

This contribution sets the scene for a curated section related to the work of Right Livelihood Laureates. Writing on a diverse range of topics, Right Livelihood Laureates challenge us to ‘be prepared’ in ourselves to change outdated systems perpetuating crises.

COVID-19 vaccination programmes give reason to hope that emergency public health measures can soon be repealed. However, a historical perspective on emergency measures in response to terrorism suggests caution is required in order to avoid the ‘normalisation’ of these measures.