Page - 530 - in VULNERABLE - The Law, Policy and Ethics of COVID-19

VULNERABLE530 to 95%, and is paying employees half to all the monthly minimum wage. The government has required banks to extend loans at reduced interest rates to keep the economy afloat. The administration has also suspended evictions, frozen all rent increases, and forgiven penalties imposed for not paying taxes due on those in the lowest tax bracket. Despite Argentina’s divided politics, the new President stood with leaders from across the political spectrum in a display of unity to announce the March 19 lockdown. The central government is work- ing closely with state governors and all health providers, securing private sector cooperation without nationalization. Meanwhile, the armed forces are building triage centres in case of a surge in infec- tions. Argentina’s infection and mortality rates are low, but its testing rate is well behind Chile’s, although it is improving fast. Meanwhile social, religious, and business groups deliver food to more than two million in the greater Buenos Aires area alone. Despite these relief measures, much hardship remains, especially for those relying on daily incomes. Yet, government measures have 94.7% approval, with the President’s popularity soaring to 81%. Governance, Mobilization, Leadership In order to plan and effectively implement needed measures, enhance efficacy, and minimize disruption, an “all of government” approach would significantly improve design and implementation of needed measures. In all too many situations, public health and police authori- ties manage lockdowns with little meaningful consultation with the rest of government. Human resource, social protection, transport, education, media, industry, fiscal, and other relevant authorities need to be appropriately engaged to plan, design, and implement various measures, as well as post-lockdown and post-COVID-19 transitions to varying notions of “new normal.” Another condition for success is “whole of society” mobilization to secure popular participation and support for undoubtedly difficult transitions. Government transparency and explanation of evolving situations and justification of various measures undertaken are impor- tant for public understanding, cooperation, support, and legitimacy. Flexibility is important, as well as the willingness and ability to change strategy and policies in response to new developments and realizations, especially in dealing with a fast unfolding situation with so much that is unfamiliar, or worse, misleadingly familiar. Singapore’s