On 13 October, ALDE Vice-Chair Petra Stienen presented her report on “Upholding human rights in times of crisis and pandemics – gender, equality and non-discrimination” to the Standing Committee. Three lessons should be learned from this report, suggested Petra Stienen in her introductory speech:
“First, this crisis has put a spotlight on structural inequalities in our societies, a case in point is the increase of gender based and domestic violence.
Second, a blame game that targets minority groups or migrants will get us nowhere.
Third, only an inclusive approach at every level of our governments, parliaments and health care institutions will ensure the long-term protection of human rights of our citizens.“
