Inequalities and COVID-19 1

This chapter examines the unequal impact of COVID-19 on individuals, communities, and nations, a fact often suppressed or invisible. Economic inequality between and within nations significantly contributes to the chances of contracting and dying from the coronavirus. Developing nations with weak healthcare systems, workers whose jobs cannot be performed remotely, the differences between those with and without access to soap and water to wash their hands, and the ability to practice social distancing also account for the unequal impact of the coronavirus. Racial and ethnic minorities experience higher death rates from COVID-19, which has also unequally affected Indigenous peoples and urban and foreign migrants around the world. Inequality is also embedded in international responses to COVID-19, as giving and receiving aid is often impacted by inequalities of national power and influence, resulting in global competition rather than the collaboration needed to end the pandemic. © 2021 selection and editorial matter, J. Michael Ryan;individual chapters, the contributors.