June 3, 2020
In his address to the IIEA, Peter Maurer discusses how the Covid-19 pandemic is affecting people who live in conflict zones and the particular vulnerabilities of certain groups such as those in detention, those who are internally displaced and those in refugee camps. He argues that the best way to tackle Covid-19 is not through a healthcare-only response, but through working to ensure that there is a wider social support system in place. He also explores how Covid-19 is changing the humanitarian landscape and the respective challenges and trends. This event is part of our Irish Aid Development Matters Lecture Series. About the Speaker: On 1 July 2012, Peter Maurer was appointed President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Under his leadership, the ICRC carries out humanitarian work in over 80 countries. Mr Maurer's priorities for his Presidency include strengthening humanitarian diplomacy, engaging States and other actors for the respect of international humanitarian law, and improving the humanitarian response through innovation and new partnerships. Prior to this, Mr Maurer held various positions in the Swiss diplomatic service, including as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the United Nations in New York and as Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs back in Switzerland.
