– Policy Brief
Summary of request/problem:
Masks are recommended where social distancing cannot be respected, and mandatory in certain enclosed spaces such as public transport, as well as schools, and shops in certain cantons. They are protective of the wearer and especially of others, and as such are part of the bundle of measures needed to keep the COVID19 pandemic under control.
Since they are required for the protection of life, and mandatory for certain parts of life, should masks be considered an essential good? They are free for healthcare professionals on the grounds that they are required to protect them and others. Should they be free at the point of use for citizens, and if so for whom and how?
Executive summary
Masks are an essential good
Masks should be treated as an essential good in social aid
Those without access to social aid should have access to masks
Who should pay?
A right to the mask in the context of compulsory public school?
References
Date of request: –
Date of response: 07/1/2021
Experts involved: Ethical legal and social issues
Contact persons: samia.hurst@unige.ch