The COVID19 pandemic led to unprecedented actions worldwide. It forced many countries to move their citizens to compulsory quarantine for a period of time of more than 14 days. In this article, we share the actions that governments took and how citizens spent their time in quarantine to help each other. We will also share how these actions contributed to raising morale amongst communities.
Governmental actions and restrictions around the world:
China was the first in terms of starting quarantine measures. It established huge hospitals in a record period of time in Wuhan and imposed strict health measures, such as imposing curfews, and placing tens of thousands in quarantine, after it closed all educational institutions, public services and the private sector.
China used thousands of drones to educate people on the streets of its cities of the need to adhere to ways to prevent the virus. Citiznes were encouraged to wear masks and avoiding gatherings. The authorities also used more than 300 million cameras on the streets to monitor citizens behaviours, and to prosecute those who failed to comply with safety standards. China also created a mobile app and provided it to more than 100 million people. The app helped them determine whether a person suffering from coronavirus is standing next to them.
Jordan closed all educational institutions and public services belonging to the private sector. Jordan also isolated those coming to the country in hotels. This was done at the expense of the state for a period of 14 days to ensure that they passed the incubation period of the disease. Upon conclusion of the quarantine, they were sent to their homes under the supervision of the army. A quarantine was applied to them in their homes.
During the daytime, police cars and patrols encouraged citizens to stay home. All basic necessities were provided at the door of the house by phone order.
Different Approaches: Mass Testing and Severe Consequences
South Korea, with a population of 50 million, took a totally different measure. They did not close the country or apply isolation measures for citizens.
The government screened and tested hundreds of thousands of people on the roads. They monitored citizens with potential of carrying the coronavirus using cell phones and satellite technology. South Korean President Moon Ki-ji described the government’s efforts as “waging war” against the threat.
Italy’s government quarantined 60 million people in their homes. They required residents not to leave unless absolutely necessary. Anyone who left their home was required to provide strong justification for their exit. If not, they could face a fine of 206 euros, or up to a three-month prison sentence for violating health regulations.
Spain also started general closure and isolation measures. They closed all unnecessary places and shops, and people were asked not to leave their homes unless there was an urgent need. In some cities, police officers played the children’s song “Baby Shark” as a thank you for staying off the streets.
Australia fined anyone who did not comply with the new rules of isolation. Violators paid a large fine or were even imprisoned in some areas of the country. The most expensive punishment was in Western Australia. A person who broke the isolation laws could be fined up to $ 50,000.
In Egypt, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, the cases of isolation and quarantine were similar. A curfew was put in place and was announced to all citizens via loudspeaker. In addition, all religious rites and gatherings were cancelled. Police patrols drove around and played national and popular songs, encouraging people to stay at home. They addressed them with loudspeakers, asking citizens to stay home and away from gatherings and use virus protection, such as wearing masks and gloves.
Contributions of citizens around the world
Around the world, to combat the boredom and provide amusement to neighbors and friends, new trends came about. In some countries, people wore strange and innovative costumes to throw their garbage out. People created a ” fashion show and then published the photos via social media.
In Italy and Spain, some sang on balconies, musicians played music from the balconies.
In Jordan, national songs and applause occurred at eight in the evening to encourage stay at home and quarantine measures. When citizens were allowed to roam to obtain basic supplies such as bread, vegetables and fruits, some citizens created local working groups that were tasked to guide citizens on a safe path to use. People kept a safe distance while they waited to get bread, taking turns, and limiting the number of citizens allowed inside a store at the same time. A group of volunteers also sterilized cars in the streets to maintain the safety of citizens who had to go to work during the quarantine.
Indonesia, volunteers from Java district carried out “sudden patrols” every few days. They disguised themselves as “Pukong,” a ghost known in local folklore. Wandering around as this ghost makes the citizens feel uncomfortable from being outside the home. Many preferred to stay at home to avoid meeting the “Pukong” ghost.
United Arab Emirates – Dubai Through cooperation with ASICS and the Dubai Sports Council, the “5:30” Running Club organized the “Marathon at Home” initiative. This initiative aimed to enhance the country’s goal to have citizens and residents stay at home. The initiative challenged athletes with previous marathon experience, to complete a 42.195 km run within the limits of their homes. They could participate indoors, in the garden, or even on the balcony of the house.
They asked participants to refrain from running on the treadmill or running in public places. Participants were asked to join the “Marathon at Home” group on the “Strava” running application. Through the app participants could track their marathon times and progress on their smartphone.
In Conclusion, Diverse Tactics Accomplish the Same Goal
These creative and diverse initiatives highlight how communities across the globe found innovative ways to cope with isolation and promote safety during challenging times. From costumes for taking out the trash to balcony concerts and home marathons, people used humor, music, and physical activity to stay connected while respecting social distancing guidelines. Whether through folklore-inspired patrols or organized virtual events, these efforts demonstrate the resilience and unity of communities worldwide. They adapted to new norms, fostering solidarity and a sense of shared purpose, even in the face of unprecedented circumstances.
