Globalization, Climate Change, and Compound Health Risks in the Era of COVID-19 Pandemic: The Case of the GCC

Abstract

COVID-19 served as a stark reminder of the economic devastation caused by poor preparedness for systemic risks. This lack of preparation triggered a domino effect, leading to an economic downturn, soaring debt, and supply chain disruption. The unprecedented global scale of this pandemic has accentuated multiple challenges with risk reduction and capacity to respond, both in the developed world and in the least developed countries. This chapter delves into the interconnectedness of globalization, public health risks, and climate change. First, we review the relationship between globalization and health risks. Subsequently, we explore the potential link between climate change and pandemics. Then, leveraging this understanding of interconnected global challenges, we analyze the response of GCC countries to the COVID-19 pandemic. The analyses show that the COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented test of policymakers’ ability to handle composite risks as climate uncertainties disrupt global epidemic responses. Although short-term measures can play a role in minimizing climate-induced loss of life, climate adaptation necessitates a long-term strategy toward pandemic preparedness as well. In the wake of the pandemic, leading economies should shift their focus away from short-term economic benefits that could undermine ecosystems and their services to society. On the contrary, this pandemic can serve as a starting point for a transformation to achieve sustainable development that merges environmental, economic, and social considerations.