DISINFO: European solidarity is a questionable model; the life and health of citizens are not important
SUMMARY
European solidarity is a questionable model, as the life and health of tens of thousands of ordinary citizens are not important. Western countries are trying to take advantage of the current situation to promote narrow selfish interests and settle accounts with competitors and opponents.
RESPONSE
Recurring pro-Kremlin disinformation narrative aiming to discredit the EU response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The European Union is supporting the Member States in addressing the crisis and mitigating the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. To cushion the blow to people’s livelihoods and the economy, the European Commission has adopted a comprehensive economic response to the outbreak, applied the full flexibility of the EU fiscal rules, has revised its State Aid rules and proposed to set up a EUR 37 billion Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative to provide liquidity to small businesses and the health care sector.
To support scientific research into the COVID-19, the European Commission earmarked 47,5 million EUR for shortlisted research projects that can improve epidemiology and public health, including preparedness and response to outbreaks. The EU has also created its first-ever stockpile of medical equipment. Read more about the EU's response here and here.
Likewise, the "lack of solidarity" claim is scotched by the actual response of individual EU members to the crisis. As of 28 March, multiple member states have provided or pledged crucial assistance to Italy including face masks (Germany, Austria, France, Czechia), mobile medical units (Greece), hospital beds (Austria, Germany), ventilators (Germany), and repatriation assistance.
The EU has also been showing solidarity beyond its borders. The European Commission registered €7.4 billion, equivalent to $8 billion, in pledges from donors worldwide during the Coronavirus Global Response pledging event. As of June 2, 2020, the Coronavirus Global Response has raised €9.8 billion. 66% of the total amount – €6.5 billion – was pledged by Team Europe, i.e. EU and Member States, the Commission, members of the EEA and the European Investment Bank.