Social Cohesion vs COVID-19

17 Pages Posted: 18 Mar 2020

See all articles by Manuel Dayrit

Manuel Dayrit

Ateneo de Manila University

Ronald U. Mendoza

Ateneo De Manila University - Ateneo School of Government

Date Written: March 18, 2020

Abstract

The control of particularly virulent communicable diseases such as COVID-19 can be considered a global public good. Its benefits are non-rival and non-excludable. Stopping or at least slowing the spread of COVID-19 could better protect the health and lives of literally billions of people across the world who could be vulnerable to infection. More effective control could also prevent severe social and economic disruption. Controlling the spread of communicable diseases within and across borders requires strong social cohesion, or a unity of purpose around this collective action challenge. This article elaborates on some of the main elements of counter-COVID-19 responses, drawing on emerging international good practice. While a full evaluation of policy effectiveness is still forthcoming, it is critical to review and synthesize the emerging lessons even this early. In reviewing the emerging evidence and good practice, this paper also emphasizes areas for policymakers to consider in their evolving crisis response.

Funding: We did not receive any external funding for this study.

Declaration of Interest: We declare no conflict of interest given its main findings and recommendations.

Keywords: COVID-19, communicable disease control, global public good

JEL Classification: I15, F35, H12

Suggested Citation

Dayrit, Manuel and Mendoza, Ronald U., Social Cohesion vs COVID-19 (March 18, 2020). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3555152 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3555152

Manuel Dayrit

Ateneo de Manila University ( email )

Katipunan Ave
Quezon City, Manila 1108
Philippines

Ronald U. Mendoza (Contact Author)

Ateneo De Manila University - Ateneo School of Government ( email )

Katipunan Road
Loyola Heights
Quezon City, 1108
Philippines

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