Experts in the News

Health economist Vivian Ho joined Houston Matters to discuss how the recent spike in Covid-19 cases is straining area health care providers.

Research shows that low-income families have not only been hit harder by the country’s economic collapse due to coronavirus, but also have largely been left out of federal relief packages. “You have women working in industries that are traditionally underpaid and undervalued,” said fellow Quianta Moore. “Because of the pandemic, society has placed this added value in their work but they’re not receiving a real increase in their wages.”

Research analyst Chris Kulesza explained how local authorities can help families – particularly those with children – during the pandemic, and how businesses can protect employee health.

The double blows of Covid-19 and an oil price crash have thrown Saudi Arabia's social and economic reforms into doubt. “I can’t imagine Hajj taking place under the current circumstances, and plans for high-end tourism will be derailed by Covid-19, probably for a year or longer,” said Middle East fellow Kristian Coates Ulrichsen. Last year, some 2.6 million pilgrims went on Hajj, with religious tourism generating $12 billion.

Covid-19 has thrown a harsh light on energy as a source of global inequality, said Todd Moss, Center for Energy Studies nonresident fellow. He examined why expanding access to energy in Africa remains important amid the pandemic.