"Exercising individual freedoms comes with responsibilities in order to fight the virus" said the Chair of the Current Affairs Committee, Gabrielle Neff (Germany, ILDG), during the online event "Covid-19: local and regional authorities on the front line", organised by the Congress on 7 December 2020. "In Germany, despite demonstrations by "anti-mask" supporters, a large majority of the population supports the measures taken to stop the spread of Covid-19," she said.
"The health crisis forces us to find solutions to the many challenges it raises. For example, the first lockdown enforced in Munich entailed challenges for vulnerable groups, especially when the decision was made to close schools. Access to education and childcare are unexpected collateral complications of the pandemic," Ms Neff underlined. As a Munich City Councillor, she has witnessed efforts undertaken by local authorities to provide solutions for the needs of residents.
At the same time, Ms Neff expressed her concern for many sectors of the economy that are at a standstill as well as for hospitals that have been under pressure since the virus appeared. “During this crisis, it's important to preserve the principles of local democracy, particularly through the continuation of in-person activities in the municipalities and increased citizen participation whether online or by mail. This pandemic must not undermine human rights and democracy", she concluded.
*** "COVID-19: Local and regional authorities on the front line" event - 7 December 2020 ***
Dossier - Agenda - Photo - Video
