The pandemic triggered the most significant economic crisis in generations. But the economic pain is not being felt equally. Higher-educated and -skilled workers are more likely to work from home, whereas others face higher risk of job loss or exposure to Covid-19 risk. How can we build more inclusive and sustainable economies from the wreckage of the pandemic?

The climate crisis is at a tipping point. Urgent action is needed to avert irreversible and catastrophic consequences. Whilst lockdowns may have provided a small silver lining by temporarily slowing carbon emissions, much more needs to be done. As governments consider fiscal stimulus to reboot economies and business work to recover, how can we use this opportunity to accelerate a transition to a decarbonized economy, halt biodiversity loss, and achieve other urgent climate goals?

The pandemic demonstrated the precocity of our social systems. Elderly communities were neglected, food security for children became precarious, homelessness raged, incarcerated populations were left unprotected, instances of domestic violence increased, education became inaccessible for many and the need for mental health services surged. In the backdrop, refugees continued to search for a better life, while misinformation and disinformation spread confusion and fear across societies. Not merely the result of individual bad actors, the differential value placed on human lives represents deep structural pathologies. What must we understand about our social systems to reimagine new ways?

Covid-19 revealed weaknesses and inequities in our health care and public health systems. Countries with strong public health systems were able to take early action and prevent the virus from overwhelming their societies and economies. In others, poor communities and communities of colour face disproportionate suffering, exposing structural flaws in our systems. In an age of pandemics, how can we build resilient health systems that deliver for all?