There are a million reasons why the economy vs lives meme in relation to relaxing COVID-19 restrictions is a false dichotomy. Here’s another: Western lockdowns are killing people in the developing world.  

Opponents of beginning to ease Australia’s COVID–19 restrictions have been characteristically tasteless. One very esteemed and serious UNSW economics professor said those questioning government policy were promoting “boomer remover” strategies while a Guardian journalist accused the IPA of “barracking to kill grandmas”.   

It’s unknown whether these active members of the tolerant and compassionate brigade have considered the impact of Australia’s lockdown on the developing world. 

The potential impact of COVID-19 in poor countries is massive.