Five years after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, the societal and political impacts remain significant.

The pandemic saw governments worldwide enforce strict measures, often criticized for curbing freedoms.

While many now look back on those times with a mix of disbelief and humor, the authoritarian tendencies that emerged have not entirely disappeared.

Critics argue that the inclination to suppress dissenting opinions and expand state control persists, raising concerns about the future of democratic discourse.

Lessons from the pandemic highlight the need for critical journalism, the importance of diverse scientific perspectives, and the protection of free speech.

As societies move forward, vigilance is required to prevent the misuse of crises to erode individual freedoms.