The quote suggests that unlike neoliberal economic policies, which essentially ignore or marginalize millions of people by leaving them with barely enough resources to survive while the wealthiest 1% enjoy extreme prosperity, the COVID-19 virus affects everyone without discrimination. It implies that while certain social and economic systems exacerbate inequality, the pandemic has shown no such bias in its spread.
The deep meaning behind this quote highlights the stark contrast between human-made socioeconomic disparities and natural phenomena like a viral outbreak. Neoliberal policies often prioritize deregulation, free markets, and reduced government intervention, which can lead to significant wealth disparity and social neglect of those who are less fortunate. In contrast, viruses do not differentiate based on economic status or political ideology; they infect everyone equally, regardless of their socioeconomic background. This observation underscores the inherent unfairness in societal structures that allow such disparities to exist, as compared to the impartial nature of infectious diseases.
Miguel Díaz-Canel is the President of Cuba and has been a vocal critic of neoliberalism's impact on society. As a leader who advocates for more equitable economic policies, his perspective sheds light on how global economic systems can disproportionately affect different demographics in ways that natural disasters or health crises do not. His quote emphasizes the need to reconsider and perhaps reform economic practices that lead to extreme inequality.
