More often than not, in times of crisis democracy becomes the first casualty.

Prolonged economic crises, disastrous defeats in war or grave security problems can lead to a regression of democracy, or worse, give rise to an authoritarian leader.

The coronavirus pandemic, which now looks set to become the greatest health crisis mankind has ever faced, is no exception. The unprecedented nature of its threat, the speed at which the disease spreads and the lethality of its attack, have given rise to coordinated efforts, which is only possible with a concentration of power in the hands of the executive.

These days, some who were terrified by the coronavirus onslaught look up to China’s response and have concluded that the cure for COVID-19 is simple: authoritarianism.

And right on cue, in several countries, the coronavirus has become the cover for leaders to impos...