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When you consider what we know now, it's kind of crazy to think the pandemic was once contemplated as a 'great equaliser'. "The virus doesn't discriminate," the editorials read.
Needless to say, this idea was short-lived. As whilst it's true that none of us are immune to the pandemic's contagion or its effects, it quicky became clear that it's a great deal more complex than this. For certain groups - such as women, youths, and part-time/casual workers - these effects are deeper, and will be more prolonged.
This divide also exists on a global scale, where access to vaccines will differ across lower income and more advanced economies; particularly if reserves are placed on essential medical supplies and foreign aid is neglected. In such ways, COVID-19 continues to highlight and accentuate the vulnerabilities that arise from inequality.
This edition, we are grateful to include a range of expert contributions on this important issue (and others). Good Shepherd CEO Stella Avramopoulos summarises recent research on the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable Australians - revealing the emergence of the "new vulnerable". Shared value expert Lil Barac-Macey picks up on this report and links it to the recent findings of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System to explore a shared value response. And Edelman CEO Michelle Hutton shares the
key insights from this year's Trust Barometer, including Australia's continuing "trust inequality gap" (she'll explain).
All this in a nod to the presistent theme of equality, particularly gender equality right now - with International Women's Day last week and 'March 4 Justice' rallies across Australia on Monday. These marches were a great success in raising a megaphone to this urgent issue, but the hard part is yet to come: ensuring this moment in time translates into lasting change.
More news - and information on our recently-launched Shared Value Masterclasses (with upcoming sessions on shared value theory and innovation later this month) - below. You'll also find an exciting opportunity to join our team as Summit Manager - Event & Logsitcs; please share and/or get in touch.
Sarah Downie
CEO, Shared Value Project
Have a question about #sharedvalue? Tweet us @SharedValueAust
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