The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) called on Monday, August 31, governments to dialogue with anti-mask protesters, while reminding them that the virus is “
real
” and “
kills
”.
Read also: Conspiracy, distrust ... French anti-masks refuse "the muzzle"
“
We should listen to what people ask, what people say.
We should engage in an honest dialogue
, ”Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told media when asked about the anti-mask protests that occurred last week in Germany and elsewhere.
“
But at the same time, I would like to tell those who protested last week that the virus is real.
He is dangerous.
It circulates quickly and it kills, and we must do everything to protect ourselves and others,
”he added, during a press conference from WHO headquarters in Geneva.
As the prospect of a second wave of the pandemic fuels fears of further lockdowns in Europe and elsewhere, anger grows among supporters of a relaxation of restrictive measures against the new coronavirus.
In Germany, the attempt to storm the national parliament during an anti-mask demonstration this weekend marked a new step in the radicalization of the movement.
Michael Ryan, director of health emergencies at the WHO, recalled that epidemics and emergency situations have always created “
strong emotions
” making it very difficult for the population to accept measures.
"
It is really important that governments do not overreact to people's protests against the measures,
" he said, also calling for dialogue.
"Every life is precious"
The boss of the WHO for his part sent a clear message to those who believe that it is not so serious if the virus mainly kills the elderly: "
Every life, whether it is a young person or old, is precious.
And we must do everything to save it
”.
“To
accept that someone dies because of their age is moral bankruptcy
,” he has said repeatedly.
He also called on people protesting the restrictions to demonstrate in respect of hygiene measures and physical distancing.
"
Even during demonstrations, and wherever there are crowds (...), we must keep our distance, we must wear masks
".
More generally, he called on governments to "
do everything to prevent
" the occurrence of events that risk amplifying the epidemic, so that "
other economic sectors can really open up and the economy can resume
".
Thus, he cited as an example, in regions where the threat related to Covid is high, matches should take place without an audience.
“
I think we can live without going to the stadium,
” he said.