Time to Rethink the Social Contract?

The pandemic may provide a unique opportunity to finally move forward and promote a wealthier, more equal and more peaceful region.

An agenda to advance inclusive development must centre on strengthening basic social safety nets and inclusive and accountable policy processes, reports the International Budget Partnership

While the rapid containment response initially slowed the infection rate, many social and economic factors hindered the containment of the virus.

While governments stepped in and provided financial assistance to those most in need, many were left out. Rethinking the social contract could pave the way for a more prosperous region. 

High levels of informality, high levels of inequality, the absence of social protection and limited health infrastructure all contributed to making the region the world’s most significantly impacted region in the world, both in health, social and economic terms.

When COVID-19 hit, the region was already facing significant challenges.

Economic growth had slowed down…