A compass for greater global cooperation

New directions are needed if countries are to avoid exacerbating pandemic-induced frictions and inequities

A man receiving Covid-19 vaccination at a temporary vaccination centre in Birmingham, central England, on Thursday. While many of these vaccines are proving miraculous in their efficacy, they risk exacerbating pre-existing geopolitical frictions and
A man receiving Covid-19 vaccination at a temporary vaccination centre in Birmingham, central England, on Thursday. While many of these vaccines are proving miraculous in their efficacy, they risk exacerbating pre-existing geopolitical frictions and fault lines, says the writer. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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The deployment of Covid-19 vaccines brings hope that the onslaught of the virus will soon cease, but the unsettled world within which the virus emerged remains.

Indeed, while many of the vaccines are proving miraculous in their efficacy, they risk exacerbating pre-existing geopolitical frictions and fault lines.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on January 23, 2021, with the headline A compass for greater global cooperation. Subscribe