“Responsive, transparent and accountable COVID-19 responses are critical to democracy.”

By Sanaka Samarasinha

Pacific Island Countries have been largely spared the devastating health impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in other parts of the world due to their swift preventive measures. However, the scale of the economic, social and political impacts have yet to be fully assessed.

Most countries declared national states of emergencies and public health emergencies, increasing State powers to put in place measures that included limiting public gatherings, movement and assembly. It is crucial that the processes of enforcement of these emergency measures always adhere to key democratic principles.

At this unprecedented juncture in time, Pacific Island Countries have a strong responsibility to strike a balance between COVID-19 preventative measures and responses, while protecting democratic processes and civic space, with full respect for human rights, and the rule of law. Responsive, transparent and accountable COVID-19 responses are critical to democracy.

Vulnerable groups

Communities have been bearing the brunt of the impact of the pandemic, placing considerable strains on social cohesion, magnifying existing inequality and further creating social divide. Dedicated support and investment in support of vulnerable and marginalised groups is crucial and more urgent than ever to address the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on vulnerable groups and individuals, including persons living in poverty, those without access to water and sanitation or adequate housing, persons with disabilities, the elderly, migrants, refugees, youth, women, children, representatives of the LGBTIQ community and people in detention or institutions.

The protection of economic, social and cultural rights is of paramount importance in formulation of any effective response plan to COVID-19.

Through strategic policy and innovative investment, the United Nations in the Pacific continues to ensure communities are at the centre of recovery efforts. The UN is working to support Pacific Island Countries in transforming this crisis into an opportunity to build a better future for their people through effective partnerships with governments, international development partners, civil society actors, non-government organisations, the private sector and others.

This includes facilitating strengthened, transparent relationships between state and citizens – so countries can achieve their sustainable development goals, while at the same time continuing to uphold the rule of law, human rights, gender equality, social cohesion and inclusive approaches to development.

Democratic institutions

Cultural institutions, a vibrant civil society and independent media are some of the biggest assets of Pacific Island Countries, which have been active in combatting COVID-19. Participation of civil society in democratic processes and drawing on the experience and wisdom of these institutions, promotes broader community engagement in the recovery process. Promoting dialogue enables greater inclusion and public participation of communities; including the critical engagement of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and LGBTIQ people in decision-making processes.

The UN calls upon all political actors to engage in open, respectful dialogue in resolving any disputes and for leaders to enhance engagement with community, civil society, women, youth and disability groups in addressing COVID-19 challenges, climate security and beyond. We encourage political actors to also participate in dialogues with provincial and local leaders on centre-periphery relationship issues.

On this International Day of Democracy, let us take stock and uphold our shared value for furthering resilient, inclusive and sustainable societies in the Pacific.
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Mr Sanaka Samarasinha is the United Nations Resident Coordinator for the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

In 2007 the United Nations General Assembly resolved to observe 15 September as the International Day of Democracy—with the purpose of promoting and upholding the principles of democracy—and invited all member states and organizations to commemorate the day in an appropriate manner that contributes to raising public awareness.