Government is often the only arbitrator between functioning society and anarchy. That being stated, government is often the lowest common denominator of positive and socially beneficial actions.
COVID-19 pandemic as the latest and currently the most obvious example, worldwide, regardless of specific structure of government.
All governments have chosen the path of less preparedness for a pandemic, regardless of previous warnings.
Additionally, virtually all governments have chosen to over react and shut down entire economies, causing extreme economic and social upheaval.
These series of no action followed by over reaction from governments has once again resulted in the most vulnerable, the poor and elderly, those most needing government support and protection, being the most seriously impacted.