Speaking during a closed video-conference with the members of the security council António Guterres said heightened solidarity is needed if the world is to defeat the crisis, which he called the gravest test since the founding of this Organization seven decades ago.
“The pandemic also poses a significant threat to the maintenance of international peace and security — potentially leading to an increase in social unrest and violence that would greatly undermine our ability to fight the disease.”
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The UN chief outlined eight ways COVID-19 could undermine global peace and security, beginning with a further erosion of trust in public institutions if people perceive that their authorities had mishandled response or were not transparent.
He said that with most Governments focused on the pandemic, terrorist groups could see “a window of opportunity to strike”, with the situation in the Sahel a particular concern.
UN boss said that COVID-19 global response has hindered conflict resolution efforts, and many peace processes have stalled as countries respond.
“The pandemic also has triggered or worsened numerous human rights challenges.We are seeing stigma, hate speech, and white supremacists and other extremists seeking to exploit the situation”, the UN chief said.
The UN chief reminded Ambassadors of his recent appeal for an immediate global ceasefire during the pandemic.
“Some warring parties have taken steps to lay down their arms, and UN representatives will continue their efforts on this front.”
Global corona virus death toll has exceeded 100,000 with over a million infections.
