We need to begin again, talk and reflect and bring about change for those who still need help, those who have been left behind, and those who will be victims in the future. What have we learned from COVID-19 and what can we change?
They have met the families of the victims affected by the COVID-19 vaccine and attended memorial services for the dead. Shortly after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, people have died or their health deteriorated, but authorities say the virus has nothing to do with it. Anger and distrust are bound to increase.
The Infectious Disease Prevention Act stipulates that the state compensates for 'adverse reactions after vaccination' and death 'regardless of negligence', but there are only a few cases where the relationship is recognized. Although partial assistance is available for some, it is often not possible to maintain a level that can compensate for damage or the continuation of treatment.
It was just recently that the voices of the numerous COVID-19 deaths, seriously ill patients, and their families began to be heard. Attend press conferences and memorial services. The Infectious Disease Prevention Act clearly stipulates that 'People have the right to receive diagnosis and treatment for infectious diseases under this Act at a medical institution, and the state and local governments must bear the costs for this. The regulations limit the scope of support to 'quarantine. If there is no death during 'quarantine', it will not be included in the death toll due to COVID-19.
The issue of health equity has continued to appear in human rights-related meetings, and in various discussions and lectures. There have been many discussions and issues raised regarding problems with discrimination against workers, migrants, disabled, homeless, and prison inmates but the improvement has been slow and only partially improved.
In fact, there is no plan for mourning and remembrance for the more than 20,000 people in this 'roadmap'. So far, there has been little concern for the socially underprivileged, vulnerable groups, and health equity. There are practically no specific measures for those who have died or are seriously ill with COVID-19, and the target and scope of support for vaccine victims will slightly increase. There is no plan for the establishment of an organization in charge of human rights, with experts and civil society. It seems clear that this falls short of what most members of society had expected and wanted.
The post-COVID-19 world must be different. Those with authority and responsibility need to have a sincere attitude of 'unlimited responsibility' and 'listening'. Letting go of 'politics, arrogance, and carelessness'.
