Pandemic demands a global response

The coronavirus pandemic is a crisis and major concern for poorer countries

As we see the virus continuing to rage in the U.S. we recognize the need for emergency funds in poorer countries. Our concern deepens over the devastating global economic and health crisis. Oxfam, Bread for the World and the other humanitarian and faith-based organizations realize the lack of funds sufficient to counteract this pandemic.

We urge Sens. Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst to co-sponsor the Support for Global Financial Institution Pandemic Response Act, which would direct the International Monetary Fund to provide financial resources to low-and-middle-income countries - at no cost to U.S. taxpayers.

By helping poor nations cope with the economic and health care costs of pandemic, the bill could help countries save millions of lives. Furthermore, the bill is anticipated to increase demand for Iowa's agricultural exports by enabling poor countries to continue purchasing American food products.

I urge Grassley and Ernst to co-sponsor this legislation, which is good for Iowa, good for the United States, and good for the world.

Emily Devine, RSM

Cedar Rapids