COVID-19 lockdowns

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of non-pharmaceutical interventions, particularly lockdowns (encompassing stay-at-home orders, curfews, quarantines, cordons sanitaires and similar societal restrictions), were implemented in numerous countries and territories around the world. By April 2020, about half of the world's population was under some form of lockdown, with more than 3.9 billion people in more than 90 countries or territories having been asked or ordered to stay at home by their governments. Researchers found the lockdowns may have reduced crime and violence carried out by armed non-state actors, such as the Islamic State, and other terrorist groups. In addition, lockdowns increased the uptake of remote work, reduced airborne pollution, and promoted the adoption of digital payment systems. Research has also documented profound negative economic impacts, as well as declines in academic performance in schools and negative mental health consequences. Large-scale protests were organized worldwide against lockdowns, with demonstrators arguing that stay-at-home orders infringed on constitutional rights, constituted excessive government control and violated civil liberties.