InfoSearched
Published -
- April 22, 2020
- 4:15 am
The first state to sue China.
The responsibility for the COVID-19 crisis lies directly at the Chinese government’s feet, says Missouri’s Attorney General Eric Schmitt.
What is the Missouri lawsuit against China over the coronavirus pandemic?
Missouri has become the first state in the United States to file a lawsuit against China over the coronavirus pandemic. The lawsuit, filed on 21st April, claims that China’s handling of the outbreak violated international laws and caused significant harm to Missouri, including the loss of lives and economic damages.
The lawsuit accuses the Chinese government of being responsible for the spread of the virus by not taking adequate measures to contain the outbreak and by suppressing information about its severity. The lawsuit alleges that China’s actions violated international laws and treaties, including the International Health Regulations and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Missouri Attorney General, Eric Schmitt, said in a statement, “The Chinese government lied to the world about the danger and contagious nature of COVID-19, silenced whistleblowers, and did little to stop the spread of the disease. They must be held accountable for their actions.”
The lawsuit seeks damages to cover the costs of the state’s response to the pandemic, as well as compensation for those who have lost their lives or suffered economic damage due to the outbreak.
The lawsuit faces significant legal hurdles, including questions of jurisdiction and sovereign immunity. The Chinese government has also rejected claims that it is responsible for the pandemic, and has accused the US of politicizing the outbreak for political gain.
Some legal experts have also criticized the lawsuit, stating that it is unlikely to succeed and may further strain US-China relations. Others, however, see the lawsuit as a symbolic move that could send a message to China and other countries about the importance of transparency and accountability in the handling of public health crises.
Regardless of its outcome, the Missouri lawsuit highlights the growing frustration and anger towards China over the coronavirus pandemic. As more countries and states struggle to contain the outbreak and deal with its aftermath, questions about accountability and responsibility are likely to continue to be raised.
