Democracy crucial in ensuring a strong pandemic response: UN Chief
‘Today, it is clear that Governments must do more to listen to people demanding change, open new channels for dialogue and respect freedom of peaceful assembly,’ the Secretary General said.
United Nation's (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres said that democracy is crucial in ensuring the free flow of information, participation in decision-making and accountability for the response to the pandemic.
The UN chief made the statement in a press release issued marking the occasion of international democracy day on Monday.
Antonio Guterres said, "Since the beginning of the crisis, we have seen the emergency used in a range of countries to restrict democratic processes and civic space. This is especially dangerous in places where democracy's roots are shallow and institutional checks and balances are weak."
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
"The crisis is also highlighting – and aggravating – long-neglected injustices, from inadequate health systems to social protection gaps, digital divides and unequal access to education; from environmental degradation to racial discrimination and violence against women," added Antonio.
The Secretary General also said that along with the profound human toll, these inequalities are themselves threats to democracy.
According to him, well before the pandemic started, frustration was rising, and trust in public authorities was declining.
He said that a lack of opportunities was driving economic unease and social unrest.
"Today, it is clear that Governments must do more to listen to people demanding change, open new channels for dialogue and respect freedom of peaceful assembly," the Secretary General said.
The UN Chief urged everyone, on International Day of Democracy, to seize this pivotal moment to build a more equal, inclusive and sustainable world, with full respect for human rights.
