Inquiry into lockdown impact on equality and human rights

A new study will look at the impact lockdown measures are having on human rights and equality.

The equality and human rights committee will gather views to inform an inquiry into what impact lockdown has had and the response to it by the Scottish Government.

Committee convener, Ruth Maguire MSP, said: “Everybody’s lives have changed immeasurably as a result of this pandemic.

“We are acutely aware, however, that some groups are experiencing disproportionately negative impacts of the virus and some of the responses to it.

“For example, we have heard reports that individuals from particular ethnic minorities are being hospitalised at higher rates than the general population, while women and young people are among those most exposed to increased risk as they are disproportionately likely to be key workers.

“Meanwhile, women, children, older and disabled people are among the most impacted by the lockdown restrictions, due to the lack of support available.”

‘Women and young people are among those most exposed to increased risk as they are disproportionately likely to be key workers.’
Committee convener, Ruth Maguire MSP

Lockdown has been in place since March 23, with Professor Jason Leitch saying at the daily Scottish Government briefing on Sunday that if people continue to ignore lockdown guidance, it may have to be extended to contain the disease.

Ms Maguire added: “The purpose of this inquiry is to ensure that hard-fought rights are uppermost in decision makers’ minds when responding to this crisis.

“Our call is open-ended to enable us to monitor the ongoing equalities and human rights impacts, so that steps can be taken to protect those most in need.”

The Committee acknowledges that this is a fast-moving situation, and so is keen to hear what issues need to be addressed urgently and those that will need to be monitored and reviewed in the medium to longer-term.