The impact of COVID-19 on refugees

Nearly 1% of the world's population is classified as displaced people, and with the increasing spread of COVID-19, lack of access to clean water and sanitation threatens refugees.

The most effective methods of intervention against COVID-19 -handwashing, wearing face masks and social distancing- are not available to refugees, as they often live in cramped areas where adhering to social distancing is limited to impossible. Additionally, access to healthcare and clean water is minimal, in Singapore for example, 93% of COVID-19 cases were identified in dormitories which housed migrants.

There is no doubt refugees face a higher risk of contracting the virus due to their living circumstances. Now more than ever, the need for refugees to be incorporated in response plans is vital, both by local and national governments. The World Health Organisation and UNHRC (United Nations Refugee Agency) have ensured refugees are guaranteed access to hand sanitizers, testing and face mask amongst others.

Access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right that is a necessity, especially in today's global situation.

Full article: https://www.project-syndicate.org/commentary/refugees-essential-to-covid19-response-plans-by-aditi-hazra-2020-07