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Research

The Lessons of the Pandemic Crisis

The economic, health-related, legal, and social impacts of managing the COVID-19 crisis have been examined both nationally and internationally in various reports and studies. However, a comprehensive Finnish perspective based on these findings has not yet been fully formed. This comprehensive assessment analyzes what happened during the pandemic, what decisions and measures were taken, and what was known about the effects of various decisions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The research brings together the findings of studies and reports on the COVID-19 crisis and summarizes the current information on the crisis management strategy and the effects of the pandemic. The project focuses particularly on leadership, restrictive measures, and preparedness. The research also provides insights into gaps in the existing research and identifies key turning points during the COVID-19 crisis where alternative actions might have been possible. The outcome is a broad overview of the effects and areas for improvement in managing the pandemic crisis.

The project is divided into six sub-studies:
1) The sub-study conducted at the University of Turku investigates the effects of the COVID-19 crisis on trust and inequality in society.
2) The sub-study conducted at the University of Vaasa examines the success of Finnish pandemic management from the perspectives of preparedness, crisis leadership, and learning, and offers recommendations for a new crisis management model.
3) The sub-study conducted at the Government Institute for Economic Research (VATT) compiles a retrospective evaluation of lessons learned from the pandemic from an economic perspective and addresses research gaps, particularly in relation to municipal finances and changes in state spending structures.
4) The sub-study at the University of Turku examines the fundamental rights restrictions implemented during the pandemic and the functioning of institutions from a legal perspective, evaluating what the policy recommendations from previous studies and assessments could mean legally.
5) The sub-study conducted at the University of Helsinki provides an overview of the protective measures introduced in Finland and analyzes the characteristics and spread of COVID-19 variants identified during the pandemic.
6) The sub-study conducted at Demos Helsinki assesses the use of research data and administrative responses in health crises as well as the implementation of related policy recommendations.

The multidisciplinary project involves researchers from the fields of administrative sciences, medicine, economics, law, and political science. The project generates knowledge and enhances understanding of the lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis, particularly for decision-makers, senior government officials, and those responsible for preparedness and contingency planning across various administrative sectors and levels of government. The project offers research-based information and recommendations to strengthen society’s comprehensive preparedness for similar crisis situations in the future. The research includes interviews and workshops, among other methods.

Inquiries

Henri Vogt, henri.vogt@utu.fi

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