COVID-19, SDGs and Poverty: The Impact of the Crisis on Vulnerable Populations — Dr Elizabeth Mason (GCSP Webinar, 2020)

Reference Summary (Video)

Abstract

This reference summary presents key information from the following video: https://youtu.be/xXvDsWmTt9I. The source is a webinar segment published by the Geneva Centre for Security Policy (GCSP) in July 2020 as part of the series “What next for Agenda 2030? The COVID-19 crisis, inequality, and the future of the SDGs.” In this session, Dr Elizabeth Mason, Co-Chair of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Independent Accountability Panel for Every Woman Every Child, discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the poorest and most vulnerable populations. The presentation highlights how the pandemic has exacerbated existing inequalities, disrupted health systems, and reversed progress in areas such as nutrition, education, and gender equality. It emphasizes the importance of accountability, global solidarity, and coordinated policy responses to protect vulnerable groups and sustain progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. The discussion underscores the need to “build back better” through inclusive, equitable, and resilient health and social systems.