Towards a greater sense of solidarity

March 26, 2021

In French, we use the word “solidaire” frequently, whereas it’s used less often in English.  In French, to be “solidaire” with something or someone means to care for, take seriously and respect. 

« Des personnes qui répondent en quelque sorte les unes des autres, qui ont entre elles un lien de solidarité ».  To be “with” or “united.”

In some ways, Covid-19 has reminded us of the importance of solidarity.  But in other ways, the measures that have been taken have impaired solidarity.

While confinement strategies were rightfully designed to stop the spread of the virus, they inadvertently caused other public health risks that could have more significant long-term consequences. 

Could there be a different way to manage similar crises in the future? 

How can we design public policy to encourage greater assistance to those outside of our immediate families?

What is clear is that there is greater room for solidarity in our policy design and in the way that we construe our obligations as co-citizens.

On one hand, in French law, it is a criminal offense to leave someone at risk of death or serious injury—the concept known as « mise en danger de la vie d'autrui ».

On the other hand, under principles of international law, there is a duty to help those stranded at sea.  These principles have been tested recently as Italian courts struggle to define the concepts of what constitutes imminent danger and distress.

If there is a duty to help those stranded at sea, shouldn’t there be a similar duty to care for the sick and vulnerable around us? 

It would be difficult to draft such a law, but the principle of solidarity in many ways illustrates what we are seeking in practice – a concerted effort on the part of co-citizens to take an interest in and look after the well-being of others. 

CPM