The Intelligence from The Economist Continental shift: covid-19 grips Europe
Mar 23, 2020
Christopher Lockwood, Europe editor for The Economist, sheds light on the severe COVID-19 situation gripping Europe, particularly in Italy and Spain, where high infection rates raise questions about healthcare responses. Meanwhile, Robert Guest, Foreign editor, discusses Colombia's dual crises, facing a surge of Venezuelan refugees and an ongoing drug war that strains resources. They also touch on the broader implications of COVID-19 disruptions on global sports and the emotional cost of cancellations on communities.
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Italy's COVID-19 Mystery
- Italy's high COVID-19 death rate is puzzling, especially given its prosperous north with good hospitals.
- Theories include Italians' affectionate culture, but similar cultures elsewhere aren't experiencing the same devastation.
Spain's COVID-19 Crisis
- Spain is the third worst-hit country globally, yet receives less attention than Italy.
- Spain is under strict lockdown, but businesses haven't entirely stopped.
Lack of EU Coordination
- There's no coordinated EU effort against COVID-19; each country tackles it differently.
- Healthcare is a jealously guarded national prerogative.