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Written question asked by Lord Hain (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 May 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 May 2020. It was answered by Baroness Sugg (Conservative) on Friday, 15 May 2020 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Africa: Coronavirus

Question

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on peace and security in Africa.

Answer

COVID-19, and it's economic consequences, will disproportionately adversely affect countries with existing humanitarian crises and high risk of instability, including countries in conflict and those at risk of seasonal climatic shocks. Supporting countries in Africa to mitigate the impacts of COVID 19 on peace and security is important and in the UK interest. The UK is considering this in our political engagement and international response.

Disrupted markets and trade, as well as the effects of lockdown measures will affect countries and regions with existing high levels of food insecurity and malnutrition, increasing the need for support, while global supply chains to deliver humanitarian support continue to be significantly disrupted. Humanitarian access is also more difficult, including for essential international medical personnel.

Increased pressure on state institutions and stringent lockdown conditions may exacerbate existing tensions on access to resources and, with security forces more stretched than usual, could have implications for stability.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL4054
Session
2019-21
Related items
Africa: Coronavirus
Monday, 1 June 2020
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects
Africa Peace Security Coronavirus
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk