”Hunger and rage (and the virus) are human things”: reflections on solidarity in times of Covid-19

Abstract

Brazil confirmed the first Covid-19 case in February 2020, in a framework of a massive introduction of neoliberal policies which worsen the potential to tackle the problem, especially, health, food and nutrition security and social assistance policies for vulnerable populations. In the absence of the State, civil society initiated a process of (re)constructing social participation actions to fight hunger in Brazil, either spontaneously or through organizations. Objective To identify and reflect about civil society's initiatives to curb hunger in connection with the Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil. Methods In order to identify society's initiatives to fight hunger, two independent systematic searches were conducted in the Google® search engine using the following keywords: “covid civil society initiatives” and “hunger pandemic solidarity campaign”. Results Fourteen nationwide civil society-promoted initiatives were identified, that among their objectives aimed at fostering collective funding to purchase and distribute foods. Conclusion Brazilian society has been historically sensitive to the hunger problem and shows solidarity as a social value. Nevertheless, the State is legally bound to provide food, as a social right.