Five years post-COVID-19, the journey of our lives transformed dramatically, especially for those on the front lines of family stresses, such as Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay, who faced the turmoil while travelling solo with two young children. As the pandemic escalated, quarantine loomed, increasing the weight of duty and worry.
The ensuing years brought profound challenges for Australians, laden with separation, lockdowns, and a sense of isolation from the world. For many, the heartache of losing loved ones without farewells was a grievous reality, a sorrow made heavier by virtual funerals.
Awakenness to human rights was ignited in many as the pandemic unfolded; people began to understand its vital significance as they observed their freedoms evaporate. These sentiments resonate deeply within a new report from the Australian Human Rights Commission, which collects the raw narratives of everyday Australians and extracts precious lessons for future emergencies.
Through listening to thousands of diverse voices, the report unveils harrowing stories of neglect, from Australians unable to return home to families locked down unexpectedly, and the dangers faced by those suffering from domestic violence or disabilities, who struggled to access crucial support. Children’s mental health plummeted, whilst Indigenous communities found themselves lacking culturally sensitive care, further fuelling isolation.
Despite the acknowledgement that Australia’s public health measures were lifesaving, the emotional and human costs could not be overlooked. The research urges governments to integrate human rights into emergency decision-making, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach to accommodate diverse needs. Each individual’s circumstances must be respected, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Encouragingly, the report highlights that emergency responses should be thoughtful and inclusive, built on collaboration with community organisations, ensuring proportionality between safety and compassion. Developing a robust emergency response framework is essential, one that anticipates diverse needs rather than merely reacting in the moment.
Looking ahead, the Australian Human Rights Commission intends to explore the effects of public policies designed for natural disasters, ensuring human rights remain the cornerstone of future responses to crises. This undertaking is about more than placing blame; it signifies a commitment to the rights of all Australians.
Ultimately, rebuilding trust and balancing individual rights with community health forms the foundation of a better future. A pivotal shift towards embedding human rights in our emergency planning is an essential step in navigating the challenges that lie ahead.
This opinion piece reflects on the profound impacts of COVID-19 on Australian lives, highlighting the importance of integrating human rights in emergency responses. It stresses the need for tailored measures that attend to the diverse needs of the vulnerable, alongside recommendations for robust, inclusive government planning for future crises.
Five years after the onset of COVID-19, striking lessons about human rights have emerged, underscoring the need for policies that incorporate people’s diverse experiences and needs. The Australian Human Rights Commission’s report advocates for an inclusive emergency response framework, ensuring empathy and proportionality in future plans. Ultimately, rebuilding trust and prioritising human rights in decision-making is paramount for navigating future emergencies.
Original Source: humanrights.gov.au
