Saudi Arabia puts people first in its coronavirus fight 
As the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak takes a growing toll on global economies and health care, many people are left facing panic and uncertainty.
While some countries appear to have abandoned the protection of their people for fear of economic collapse, the Saudi government prioritizes human health above all else. “This pandemic has taken a great toll on human lives and caused tremendous suffering around the world,” King Salman told an extraordinary G20 virtual summit to address the crisis in late March.
The Kingdom has faced international criticism regarding human rights. However, what does the Saudi strategy to overcome COVID-19 prove to the world?
The first positive coronavirus case was discovered inside the Kingdom on March 2. While most countries were left reeling by the outbreak, Saudi Arabia took precautionary steps that gave the country an early advantage in slowing the spread of the virus.
In early March, the government adopted stringent procedures. Airports were shut down and incoming passengers sent into quarantine. Schools, universities, malls and restaurants faced temporary closure. On March 23, the government imposed a curfew, urging residents to stay at home and adopt social distancing measures.
Following these precautions, the country has been able to ensure services in supermarkets, pharmacies and markets — an impressive result.
The world economy is being devastated by the coronavirus crisis and unemployment is increasing rapidly. The Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority has pledged support for citizens and residents who lose their jobs.
Alongside efforts to overcome the outbreak, the Saudi government has provided Saudi expats stranded in foreign countries with housing and humanitarian assistance, spending millions of dollars to protect its citizens abroad.
The Saudi leadership has also offered protection to illegal immigrants, including those who overstayed their visas.
On a regional level, Saudi Arabia has airlifted critical supplies to Yemen. Saudi Arabia is also helping the international community. In response to a World Health Organization call.
One can argue that this crisis has provided yet more evidence that the Kingdom respects people and preserves their right to live healthily and in peace.
