Inequality of COVID-19: Immediate Health Communication, Governance and Response in Four Indigenous Regions

The Inequality of COVID-19: Immediate Health Communication, Governance and Response in Four Indigenous Regions explores the use of information, communication technologies (ICTs), and longer-term guidelines, directives, and policy initiatives to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in advanced and low-income countries. The cases document the failure of various governments to establish robust policies, leading to devastating results. The four Indigenous communities selected were the Navajo, Siddi, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and Maasai, with common economic oppression and survival from colonial violence as a common denominator. National leadership and other incoherent pandemic mitigation policies account for a significant amount of the devastation caused.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2021
Publisher: Elsevier Science & Technology

The Inequality of COVID-19: Immediate Health Communication, Governance and Response in Four Indigenous Regions delves into the utilization of information, communication technologies (ICTs), and longer-term guidelines, directives, and general policy initiatives in addressing the pandemic. The cases presented highlight the consequences of governments' failure to establish effective policies to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in a sample of advanced and low-income countries. The lack of coordination among global institutions responsible for managing the crisis has resulted in devastating outcomes. The four Indigenous communities selected for this study are the Navajo of the southwestern United States, the Siddi people in India, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of Australia, and the Maasai in East Africa. While these communities exhibit diverse characteristics across different continents, they share a common denominator in terms of economic oppression and historical experiences of colonial violence, which serve as the basis for hypothesizing public health management outcomes.

However, the research findings reveal that national leadership and inconsistent pandemic mitigation policies play a significant role in the devastation experienced by these communities.

The Navajo community in the United States faced challenges in accessing healthcare services and testing due to geographical barriers and limited resources. The Siddi people in India experienced discrimination and marginalization, which hindered their ability to receive adequate healthcare and information about the pandemic. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia faced systemic racism and discrimination, leading to higher infection rates and disproportionate deaths. The Maasai in East Africa faced cultural barriers and misinformation, which contributed to their delayed response to the pandemic.

The cases also highlight the importance of community-led initiatives and indigenous knowledge in responding to the pandemic. The Navajo community, for instance, implemented traditional healing practices and community-based surveillance to address the pandemic. The Siddi people in India used their knowledge of herbal medicine and traditional practices to combat the virus. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia collaborated with local health organizations to provide culturally sensitive healthcare services and support. The Maasai in East Africa utilized their traditional knowledge of agriculture and animal husbandry to support their communities during the pandemic.

Furthermore, the cases emphasize the need for sustainable and long-term solutions to address the inequalities and disparities that have been exacerbated by the pandemic. The research suggests that governments should prioritize the development of comprehensive healthcare systems, invest in education and training programs, and promote economic empowerment for marginalized communities. Additionally, international organizations and governments should work together to provide support and resources to Indigenous communities, recognizing their unique challenges and needs.

In conclusion, The Inequality of COVID-19: Immediate Health Communication, Governance and Response in Four Indigenous Regions sheds light on the devastating impact of the pandemic on Indigenous communities. The cases highlight the failure of governments to establish robust policies to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, as well as the importance of community-led initiatives and indigenous knowledge in responding to the crisis. The research emphasizes the need for sustainable and long-term solutions to address the inequalities and disparities that have been exacerbated by the pandemic, and calls for international cooperation and support to address the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 193 x 235 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323998673