 Our world is interconnected and COVID-19 has brought that home. Together, we're going through the most serious and widespread health crisis in living memory. The COVID-19 pandemic is a test to us all and to our societies and systems. To come out of it stronger, we need to stay home, to take protective measures, to show solidarity. To be most effective, measures to stop the spread of the virus need to include action to protect those most vulnerable. This pandemic is also a test to our principles and shared humanity. We see a wave of stigma and discrimination, which fits on misinformation and fear. Unlike COVID-19, racism and xenophobia are also contagious killers. All of us, especially political leaders and other influential figures, must speak out forcibly against the stigma and racism generated by this crisis. It is precisely in times of crisis that core human rights values can help us steer the best course. We need to come together and continue working for the common good with conviction and determination.