COVID-19: How the pandemic threatens global peace

The threat of COVID-19 is not just a health crisis but also a significant risk to global peace, according to Serge Stroobants, the Director for the Europe & MENA Region at the Institute for Economics & Peace. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Stroobants highlighted how the pandemic has the potential to undermine global socio-economic developments, create humanitarian crises, and lead to civil unrest among citizens. Stroobants referred to the 2020 Global Peace Index, warning that global peace is now on the brink of collapse due to a combination of factors, including the civil unrest protests in America and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Director emphasized the need for urgent action to address these challenges to prevent further escalation of conflicts and instability worldwide. One of the key points raised by Stroobants in the interview was the impact of the civil unrest protests in America on global peace. He noted that the protests, sparked by the death of George Floyd, have exposed deep-rooted inequalities and social injustices that are prevalent in many countries around the world. Stroobants highlighted the importance of addressing these underlying issues to promote peace and stability globally. He also emphasized the need for inclusive policies and social reforms to address systemic racism and inequality, which are key drivers of conflict and violence. Another key theme discussed in the interview was the potential for the COVID-19 pandemic to exacerbate existing conflicts and create new sources of instability. Stroobants pointed out that the pandemic has put immense pressure on healthcare systems, disrupted economies, and widened social divides, leading to increased tensions and instability in many regions. He warned that the socio-economic impact of the pandemic could further fuel existing conflicts and trigger new waves of violence and unrest, posing a serious threat to global peace and security. Moreover, Stroobants highlighted the need for international cooperation and solidarity to address the interconnected challenges of the pandemic and global peace. He emphasized the importance of multilateralism and collective action to combat the spread of COVID-19, mitigate its socio-economic impact, and prevent the escalation of conflicts. Stroobants stressed the role of global governance institutions, such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization, in coordinating a unified response to the pandemic and promoting peace and stability worldwide. In conclusion, Serge Stroobants' insights underscore the urgent need for coordinated global efforts to address the dual challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and global peace. As the world grapples with the devastating impact of the pandemic and the growing threat to peace and stability, collective action and solidarity are essential to prevent further escalation of conflicts and build a more peaceful and resilient world.