Distant But Together: Responding to COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting all of us around the world. It’s an unsettling time filled with concerns, challenges, and anxieties.

As a global organization, Amnesty International knows this pandemic reveals the interconnectedness of our world in a very personal way. We also know that in trying times like these, the best of humanity can rise.

This is a time when we have the opportunity to help end demonization and anger – and move forward with empathy and kindness. While people may need to be physically distant, we remain united.

5 ways the coronavirus affects human rights: pic.twitter.com/aWoRyiniFo— Amnesty International USA (@amnestyusa) March 11, 2020

WHAT ARE WE DOING?

Amnesty International continues to take our role as a watchdog for human rights very seriously:

• We are working to ensure that all governments put human rights at the center of their responses to the outbreak
• We are also ramping up our response efforts to advocate for marginalized groups and those most at risk. All people can get COVID-19, but some may face adverse impacts and additional challenges in accessing care.

Respecting human rights is not a luxury that can only be afforded once the threat for public health has been minimized.

WHAT ARE WE CALLING FOR?

• The response to COVID-19 must center human rights at all stages of the crisis – prevention, preparedness, containment, and treatment – in order to best protect public health and support people who are most at risk.
• The U.S. administration must act to protect the human rights of all people, including the right to health, as governmental authorities at the federal, state, tribal, and local level respond to the humanitarian and public health challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• All people should have the same access to care and safety – and no one should be treated as an afterthought.