ForMENA Council for MENA affairs
The world is facing an unprecedented situation created by a rapid global outbreak of COVID-19 disease, which reminds that threats know no borders. COVID-19 is caused by a virus that can be transmitted to both wealthy and vulnerable communities indiscriminately, which poses a critical public health risk to the entire world. Despite this, the collective response of MENA citizens has shown a great public consciousness and greater mutual understanding while preventing cross-infection.
Without doubt, the spread of pandemic is a test of resilience that requires solidarity at all levels, based on mutual aid, cooperation, transparency, and sharing of resources – in the affected areas – towards the most vulnerable populations and their caregivers. Though, it is fundamental that global health security efforts should seek protection of human life and be able to reduce fear and increase proactivity.
As COVID-19 spreads around the world, putting pressure on national, regional and global systems, the Council for MENA Affairs “ForMENA” calls for strengthened multilateralism and a renewed commitment to democratic values, human rights and health equity. At the same time, we applaud the swift reaction of the European Union to the pandemic crisis and support the set of measures announced by the European Commission to protect lives and livelihoods.
Ultimately, we stand with Europe and MENA citizens as well as with the world at large in these uncertain times. We wish for a full recovery for all the infected and we are confident that together we will overcome this new challenging crisis once and for all.
Stay united in distance ..
Headquarters office – Paris
1st April 2020
* As part of its contribution to raise public awareness, ForMENA makes available a glossary of common COVID-19 phrases and terms. Download the glossary from here.