Based on the findings covered in the ICNL’s COVID-19 Civic Freedom Tracker, the article suggests ways the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) members could react to the governments’ responses to COVID-19 that seriously affected the civic space. OECD-DAC members could support efforts to counter the new restrictions on free speech and provide assistance to independent media and CSOs working for press freedom. OECD-DAC members can promote the right to peaceful assembly and proper balancing of this right with public health interests. They could also support efforts to create strong, human-rights protective norms on surveillance technology’s responsible use. Moreover, they must identify viable means of enabling CSOs to continue to provide vital services and encourage broad civil society participation in the oversight, development, and implementation of recovery plans. Finally, members should ensure that they provide financial support to address COVID-19 and handle its consequences effectively. Read the full article here.
Source: OECD Development Matters