As the world faces the uncertainties that accompany a pandemic, researchers urge authorities to respond to the crisis in an “equitable and inclusive” way that does not shut out people belonging to the most vulnerable social categories.
An increasing number of countries are enforcing lockdown measures in response to the new coronavirus pandemic. These measures mean that authorities are restricting individuals’ freedom of movement, many businesses have had to close doors, and there are much stricter rules around access to health care.
Some researchers — although they agree with the need to enforce strict measures to fight this pandemic — now worry that some of the most vulnerable members of society will become even more isolated and less able