After the virus

The Covid-19 pandemic has now afflicted 190+ countries and travelled to every nook and corner of the globe. Some 800,000 persons have already tested positive for the 'coronavirus' around the globe and around 40,000 fatalities have been registered so far. It is proposed that once we have tackled this pandemic, a radically altered world order should be created with the following contours: Banish all nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons testing the world over, including any sort of arsenal which is deemed conducive to biological warfare. Accelerate global disarmament activities and begin reconciliation efforts to curtail or stop all unnecessary wars, which are draining the planet's resources or capabilities. Funds derived from global disarmament efforts should be mobilised towards climate change initiatives, global tree plantations, expansion of natural food crops and supply chains, and, above all, healthcare developmental efforts to counter or fight emerging viral and global health issues.

The G20 group of nations just held a summit via video conferencing. It is a good effort as a start. The UN and all global, multilateral organisations and/or agencies should step up data management, analysis, and development efforts for their member nation-states with the sole vision to create a sustainable planet, in which humans and nature are able to co-exist with harmony. 5-The monotheistic world especially the Islamic bloc of nations should step up their internal and external soul-searching; if we can help create real and just communities, which could be a beacon of light for the world in times of elevated distress. Although the pandemic is slowly advancing, at least it can awaken the global community from a state of gross comatose in that things cannot continue as they are. We need a new beginning, we need fresh ideas, we need to respect nature, and we need some serious spiritual introspection. Perhaps, a new global organisation should be founded, primarily tasked to develop a viable roadmap for the global community of 200 states once we exit the corona pandemic for good.

Abbas R Siddiqi

Lahore