Global perspectives: Stories of solidarity during COVID-19
At the WCIA, we understand that the outbreak of COVID-19 is difficult for so many people across the world. In uncertain times like these, it is heartwarming to see communities uniting in solidarity, and even song in some cases.We are reaching out to people worldwide to share global perspectives on COVID-1, recognising the global nature of the issue, and some of the similarities and differences of experiences in different countries. We want to identify and share the positive stories emerging from the situation as a source of inspiration for people in these challenging times.
Click here to view our Global Perspectives map sharing solidarity stories from all over the world
Emma from New Zealand
“As of 19 March, there are 28 confirmed cases in New Zealand. All cases are in people who have just come from overseas or a couple of cases have been immediate family members of these people.
“There is no ‘community transmission’ of the virus here yet, though it likely only a matter of time before that occurs. The plan is to try and ‘flatten the curve’ to reduce the impact on the health system to a level it can handle. All travellers arriving to NZ from overseas, with the exception of the few of the Pacific Islands where there are no cases yet, are required to self-isolate for two weeks.
“The plan is to try and ‘flatten the curve’ to reduce the impact on the health system”
“But, what if people don’t? The government is being quite hard line on this. Yesterday two tourists were actually arrested and I believe they will be deported as they arrived in the country and just intended to carry on their travels and had no plans for self-isolation.
“Everyone here is generally quite calm, but getting a bit worried about the prospect of everyone being in lockdown. There has been a run on supplies with some supermarkets experiencing shortages, however there were buying limits on some items (e.g. toilet paper, baby formula)
“If people are well, they are out and about, but a lot hand sanitiser is being used and with the limited contact, people are greeting each other with elbow bumps or the ‘east coast wave’. Here is Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern
“Everyone here is generally quite calm, but getting a bit worried about the prospect of everyone being in lockdown”
“At the moment I feel like everything is being handled well. If we can all rely on each other to think of others, I think we will be ok.
“My take on this is that when people start to think purely of themselves, that’s when things turn to pot.”
Would you like to share your story of the situation/ challenges facing your country?
We are asking anyone willing to share to answer the following questions and send to – bethanmarsh@wcia.org.uk
- What is the situation like in your country?
- What are some of the main challenges for people?
- Are there any positive stories coming out of this situation that can be inspiration for others?