Slovakia after Covid-19. How will a pandemic change our lives?

Project facts

Project promoter:
Slovenská organizácia pre výskumné a vývojové aktivity(SK)
Project Number:
SK-ACTIVECITIZENS-0183
Status:
Completed
Initial project cost:
€98,490
Final project cost:
€104,540
Other Project Partners
I live in science(SK)

Description

The aim of the project is to implement a participatory process of public policy preparation in key areas in response to the COVID19 pandemic. The project will focus on the analysis of further development and adaptation of society to the effects of the pandemic. By involving researchers and innovators from different fields, the applicant identifies the main challenges, changes that will affect post-pandemic developments in society, the economy and everyday life. Subsequently, recommendations for reforms and policies in the given areas will be formulated. The project represents a unique opportunity to create a comprehensive set of recommendations and proposals that should be taken into account in post-pandemic development when formulating policies and setting up recovery and adaptation processes. The outputs of the project will be available and will form the expert basis for public discussion and decision-making by political representatives in the coming years. The prepared methodology, as well as the experience of the project, will be possible to use even after the end of the pandemic. The project also aims to gain insight into the likely social and economic development in the Slovak Republic in the next decade, based on the opinions of researchers and innovators, and thus provide policy makers with an expert view of potential further developments. Researchers'' expertise is already helping to address the pandemic in a significant way. The project reflects the needs of the following target groups:
- Public policy makers to provide decision-making from excellent researchers.
- Public administration at all levels, which will use the outputs in the formulation and implementation of public policies.
- Researchers and innovators who will be involved in the process and provide their expert opinion.
- Civil society to engage in a public debate on the necessary changes and reforms. She will also be able to use the outputs of the projects for her activities.

Summary of project results

The project''s primary objective was to orchestrate a participatory process for crafting public policies in key areas directly impacted by the pandemic of COVID-19. This initiative was not just a response; it was a proactive effort to understand, adapt, and shape the post-pandemic trajectory. In the aftermath of the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, a visionary project emerged, fueled by a commitment to understanding, adapting, and shaping the trajectory of a society in flux. As researchers and innovators collaborated to unravel the complexities of the post-pandemic world, six overarching themes emerged, each representing a critical facet of the challenges and transformative changes faced by society. Led by esteemed figures in their respective fields, these themes became the focal points for insightful discussions and collaborative exploration.

The project began by involving a diverse group of stakeholders in the development of public policies, aiming for a collaborative response to the varied impacts of the pandemic on different aspects of life.

A thorough analysis followed, examining how the pandemic had influenced society. The project looked closely at the ongoing changes and adaptations in society, seeking to unravel the various challenges and transformations triggered by the crisis.

Researchers and innovators from different fields were actively engaged in the project to capture a wide range of perspectives. Their expertise was utilized to identify and analyze the challenges and transformations affecting the post-pandemic landscape.

To amplify diverse voices, the project conducted in-depth interviews with forty specialists. These conversations, presented as podcasts and transcribed for wider accessibility, offered a nuanced understanding of experiences during the pandemic and highlighted key societal trends.

Six main themes emerged, each guided by a respected scientific figure. From exploring leadership dynamics to addressing the issue of disinformation, and from understanding the role of data and artificial intelligence to integrating modern technologies in healthcare—these themes encapsulated the essence of the project''s exploration.

The project reached its peak with a final conference where representatives from various sectors gathered to witness the unveiling of the expert groups'' findings. This conference became a forum for dialogue among government officials, academics, business leaders, and media representatives.

The project yielded a multifaceted set of outcomes, beginning with the collaborative formulation of public policies. Stakeholders from diverse backgrounds actively participated, fostering a collaborative approach to policy development. Additionally, the project conducted a thorough analysis of the societal impact of the pandemic, providing decision-makers with a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing changes and adaptations within society. Researchers and innovators were also actively engaged, contributing diverse perspectives to the project''s exploration. In-depth interviews with specialists were transformed into accessible podcasts and transcripts, disseminating expert insights to the broader public. The formation of expert groups, each focusing on a specific theme, further deepened the project''s outcomes, resulting in actionable recommendations and insights.

The impact of these outcomes reverberated across various sectors. The collaborative policy formulation empowered government officials and policymakers with nuanced insights, informing their decisions and responses to post-pandemic challenges. The comprehensive analysis enhanced decision-making by providing valuable insights into the complex societal landscape. Researchers and academia benefited from cross-disciplinary insights, contributing to a deeper understanding of the broader implications of the pandemic. The public gained awareness through expert interviews presented in accessible formats, fostering a more informed public discourse. The actionable recommendations from expert groups became a blueprint for interventions, impacting government officials, non-governmental organizations, and advocacy groups.

Government officials and policymakers benefited from collaborative insights for policy formulation. The research community gained valuable cross-disciplinary perspectives. The public was informed through accessible expert interviews, contributing to an informed discourse. Non-governmental organizations found actionable recommendations useful for targeted interventions. Representatives from government, academia, and business sectors gained insights during the final conference, shaping decisions and contributing to collective efforts in addressing post-pandemic challenges.

Information on the projects funded by the EEA and Norway Grants is provided by the Programme and Fund Operators in the Beneficiary States, who are responsible for the completeness and accuracy of this information.