A new report from the Australian Human Rights Commission assesses Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing significant gaps in protecting human rights during emergencies. Titled “Collateral Damage,” it highlights how government measures disproportionately affected marginalized communities, exacerbating existing hardships. Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay noted, “The pandemic response saved lives, but it also came at a significant cost,” recalling stories of economic hardship and isolation that should never be repeated.
The Australian Human Rights Commission’s report, “Collateral Damage,” examines the COVID-19 response and advocates for future emergency protocols to centre on human rights. It details the adverse impacts on those in marginalised situations, suggests key principles for government action, and underscores the importance of learning from the pandemic’s lessons. With human rights as a priority, the proposed framework seeks to guide future engagements with emerging crises.
The report establishes that emergency response measures must incorporate human rights to avoid repeating past mistakes. It advocates for an Emergency Response Framework grounded in key principles, ensuring all communities are consulted and their diverse needs met. Commissioner Finlay emphasises the urgency of implementing these lessons to fortify future responses to any crises. Prioritising human rights is not just a recommendation; it is a necessity for Australia’s resilience.
Original Source: humanrights.gov.au
