Pandemic and confusing days

The pandemic is still moving around, in our corner of the world. It is not just a problem in the Americas or elsewhere. It should continue to be seen as a dramatic challenge we all face, everywhere. European countries are opening up. But it would be a mistake to believe we are out of the woods. Every measure of prudence must be adhered to. And governments cannot stop the health education campaigns around the Covid. Better, they must be clear in their messages. And the strongest messages are about wearing masks, keeping a distance and avoid crowds, all types of crowds.

I know we are requested to find a balance between health and the economy. I am for the opening of the economic activities, including international travel. However, all of this must be implemented with a deep sense of civic and personal responsibility. Politicians, associations, and every citizen carry a good deal of responsibility. The roles and expectations must be clearly defined. Then, we know what to demand from each one. And what are the red lines we must follow.

There is a great concern with the economic recovery. In most European countries that is the main worry. I fully understand it. The shock is very deep, and the prospects of recovery are uneven, at best. In some countries, with weaker and less diversified productive basis, the prospects are indeed very sombre. I think the quickest way to recover is to let people be responsible in an environment that respects the sanitary norms and, at the same time, gives each one of us a chance to live in the “new normal” and take charge of our own destiny. This no time for unjustified constraints, beyond those that have a scientific reason.

It is also no time to keep children out of the schools. They must go back to a safe and well-organised classroom. They need to be in contact with their age group and their little friends. That is how the socialisation and the learning happen.