"The COVID-19 crisis has revealed powerfully the need to measure poverty and need in a more dynamic way. Building social registries that are broad enough to allow systems to reach the newly vulnerable in times of crisis is one of the cornerstones of being prepared for future shocks. These investments in administrative data pay off for themselves many times over. "

The Global Competitiveness Report series has since its first edition aimed to prompt policy-makers beyond short term growth and to aim for long-run prosperity. The special edition is dedicated to elaborating on the priorities for recovery and revival, and considering the building blocks of a transformation towards new economic systems that combine “productivity”, “people” and “planet"

"According to the report, easing planetary pressures in a way that enables all people to flourish in this new age requires dismantling the gross imbalances of power and opportunity that stand in the way of transformation".

"Local leadership needs to ensure all sections of society are involved in discussions on preventing COVID-19, including the marginalized and those living in informal settlements. Once vaccines are available, full participation of all community groups will be essential in planning effective and equitable distribution" shares Maimunah Mohd Sharif.