2020–21 was a year of contradictions: a year of lockdowns which nonetheless saw massive protests against racial injustice; a year in which governments wielded their power to protect their citizens, but also, in some parts of the world, to clamp down on political and civic dissent. It was a year in which we were shocked by the catastrophe of millions dying, but heartened by the indomitable spirit of those who risked their lives to support their families and communities.

Our staff and partners demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of the challenges posed by COVID-19. Saferworld teams adapted admirably to the task of working from home, running events online and ensuring lines of communication were open and accessible. Often finding themselves at the forefront of COVID response, partners found innovative ways to deliver support to their communities.

We may not fully understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 for decades. What has become clear, however, is the worrying way in which some state and non-state entities have co-opted the pandemic to further a repressive agenda, reducing the space for public discourse and legitimate dissent. Global inequalities will mean that the world emerges from the pandemic at different speeds. As it does so, it is vital that we – and all looking to build sustainable peace – continue to press for an open conversation between individuals, civil society, authorities and international actors to promote inclusion in decision-making, accountability, and peaceful political transitions that deliver for conflict-affected populations.