CGD in the News

World leaders are fighting the virus. And each other. (Politico)

March 21, 2020

From the article:

“If there’s one thing the coronavirus has shown, it’s that a crisis that affects all of humanity does not necessarily inspire international unity, coordination or leadership. Instead, borders are closing, competition for resources is up, politicians are insulting one another, and no country is taking charge.

‘This is a challenge that’s hitting every country at the same time, and we’re all working in our own little silos instead of working together,’ said Jeremy Konyndyk, a former Obama administration official who oversaw disaster response. ‘There’s no attempt at global leadership from anyone right now, and we’re not going to win if ultimately we’re not working together on this.’

The difference in reaction is particularly stark when compared to the Ebola virus crisis, which — while more limited in geographical scope — nonetheless inspired a global response spearheaded by the U.S. under then-President Barack Obama.”