Fundamental Rights and Non-Discrimination in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recommendations for Action

World Justice Challenge Webinar Event

Tuesday, January 26

Watch the Webinar Recording:

In the course of the World Justice Challenge 2021: Advancing the Rule of Law in a Time of Crisis competition, the World Justice Project is convening thematic webinars focused on COVID-19 and its effects on access to justice for all, accountable governance, anti-corruption and open government, and fundamental rights and non-discrimination. Subscribe to WJP's e-newsletter for further competition updates and invitations.

The COVID-19 pandemic is intensifying restrictions on a wide range of fundamental rights, which form a key pillar of the rule of law. This comes at a time when, according to the World Justice Project Rule of Law Index, more countries have regressed on their 'fundamental rights score' than any other rule of law factor over both the last year and the last five years. In addition to the dramatic effects of quarantines and lockdowns on freedom of movement and travel, the pandemic is affecting human rights in four areas of particular concern: equal treatment and non-discrimination, freedom of expression and assembly, right to privacy, and due process and the rights of detainees.

Co-sponsored by World Justice Challenge thematic partners CIVICUS and International Service for Human Rights (ISHR), this discussion focused on fundamental rights issues that have been raised and exacerbated by the pandemic. Panelists also discussed recommendations for action needed to address underlying challenges, support an effective recovery process, and build back toward more just, rule-of-law-based societies.

The World Justice Challenge 2021: Advancing the Rule of Law in a Time of Crisis is a global competition to identify, recognize, and promote good accountable governance practices and high-impact projects and policies that protect and advance the rule of law in this time of unprecedented crisis.

Speakers:

Maja Daruwala
Senior Advisor, Tata Trusts and Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative
Mandeep Tiwana
Chief Programmes Officer, CIVICUS
Tess McEvoy
New York Co-Director and Legal Counsel, International Service for Human Rights
Ted Piccone
Chief Engagement Officer, World Justice Project (moderator)

Fundamental Rights and Non-Discrimination Resources:

View Fundamental Rights and Non-Discrimination resources on the World Justice Challenge 2021 website.

Download the Webinar Summary: