Understorey: Rethinking Options ~Healthcare not Warfare

Covid-19 has been forcing us to rethink our options.  During the last several weeks, the economy has had to be subservient to human life, and our common wealth has been directed towards keeping people alive and safe, to ensure that the covid-19 infection has not spread too fast, so that hospitals will not be overwhelmed by patients.  It’s been a time for shifting priorities.  We have rediscovered our houses, our housemates, our loved ones, and found value in cooking, baking, gardening, singing, creating.  Keith McNaught’s dog Molly is happy for the extra walks, while her master has rediscovered the beauty of the Canning River, and found wonder in spiders and their ingenious webs .  While we’ll all be relieved when the restrictions are over, many are reconsidering what we value most.  The Medical Association for Prevention of War Australia says it’s time to focus on healthcare, not warfare.  They endorse the United Nations Secretary-General’s appeal for a global ceasefire amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  MAPWA President Dr Sue Wareham OAM takes us through the eight steps Australia could take to switch from our surprisingly militarised society, to one which focuses on conflict resolution at home and abroad, to favour our public health.

(Photo: Canning River, by A Glamorgan; Dr Sue Wareham plus campaign image, MAPWA)