The challenges ahead – pandemic implications

The pandemic and the consequent lock-down will no doubt have a major ripple effect on economy and society as a whole. I will approach the situation assuming a bad case scenario where the virus are to persistent over a year with a few waves of attack. Here I’ll look into possible future implications that may arise from this pandemic and suggest a few preemptive measures that can take place to nullify or reduce it’s impact.

1. Possible disruption in essential goods supply chain (especially food industry):

Lock down has created restrictions for seasonal migrant workers to help the agricultural farming industry. Shortage of staffs may cause less food supply. In addition, the closure of restaurants will lead to unsold food being disposed. Disposing food can lead to a food shortage as the demand of food has not changed but has been redirected to groceries or takeaway outlet.

I do not know how the food industry supply chain works but measures need to be taken to prevent food from being disposed to avoid food shortage. Quick action needs to be taken to ensure logistics are in place to redirect unsold goods to new outlets such as groceries and takeaway business. Farmers should also start open their market to the general public. Directories for these farms should be handed out to local areas.

I believe preserving food is also an important practice. Unsold food should be preserved instead of disposed. Government and the public should be taking a more proactive stance in preserving food whether it is through providing subsidies or promoting practice with marketing campaign. I also encourage the public to be slightly more self sufficient through grow their own vegetables and learn how to preserve it.

2. The potential rise suicide, poor health and mental health issue due to rise of unemployment and disparity:

Suicide, drug addictions and health related issue tends to rise during recessions. The current pandemic is likely to lead to recession and possibly a depression depending on various factors such as the nature of the virus, whether we are able to contain the virus or not, the consumer behaviour and the response of government.

The government and community should invest more on protecting vulnerable people who needs basic financial support. These support makes a big difference during vulnerable time. More investment are need in our mental health care system. These includes social care and alternative therapy such as art therapy, mindful breathing, meditation or nature walks. Both financial and mental support are needed.

3. Geopolitical tension (leading to potential trade wars, sanctions and wars):

History has shown that major economic down turn and scarcity of resources can lead to wars. Trade wars leads to currency wars and then followed by an actual war. The unhealthy geopolitical relationship between major nations does not bestow confidence in a peaceful solution. However, it is important for people to maintain optimistic and invest energy in being pragmatic and constructive.

With the power of technology and social media, we can use it to spread a positive messages and awareness. With these technological tools and along with lessons from our past history, it is possible to find a peaceful, creative and innovative solution. Public awareness, providing a proper humane education, working on maintaining a healthy international relationship and community working together to solve problem such as food crisis are a few of many solutions.

I strongly believe that a good humane education system and society working towards the notion of kindness, generosity and understanding will serve a foundation where great and positive things can stem from. Do not under estimate the ripple effect of a small act or speech of kindness as shown through history.