Covid-19, public health and social policy in MENA

ABSTRACT Covid-19 had major socio-economic impacts on the populations and societies of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries. Government reactions depended on their public health institutions/infrastructures, official ideologies and understanding of the situation, as well as wars/conflicts and sanctions. To counter the impact of the pandemic, countries adopted a combination of cash payments to the poor, furlough schemes and financial support to employers. But public health services in most countries have been poorly resourced to cope with the pandemic. Considering that most countries are characterized by inequality in the distribution of income/wealth, entitlement and access to health services and social protection, states need to reorientate public expenditure towards public health and the reduction of inequality.