KU Leuven presents 7 reports that scrutinise various aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic
What are the socio-economic and psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to control it? What lessons can we draw from this crisis, especially with regard to policy, governance, the organisation of health care and inclusion? To answer these questions, an interdisciplinary approach is necessary. Researchers from different fields at KU Leuven formed a Metaforum working group to study and evaluate different aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study resulted in seven reports which will be presented to the public on 9 November 2021.
Solidarity in times of pandemic
Two of the seven reports cover solidarity in our society during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a specific focus on vulnerable groups. "A rise in solidarity was visible during the first wave of corona crisis, but we wondered to what extent this solidarity reached everyone," explains Professor Erik Schokkaert. "Moreover, the question remains whether anything has actually changed in the solidarity systems and whether help can be provided more rapidly and in a targeted manner in the future, to those who need it."
The first part of the study shows that socially vulnerable groups were affected to a greater extent by the COVID-19 pandemic, both socio-economically and psychologically. The study surveyed their experience of solidarity. "The results show that socially vulnerable people received less help than before the corona crisis, both from their close environment and from persons or initiatives outside their own network. As a result, they were also less able to offer support to those close to them. Access to government services was also often limited," reveals Professor Karen Phalet. "We can conclude from this that socially vulnerable groups are harder hit and have a smaller safety net in times of crisis. Consequently, there is a need for a targeted strategy that empowers individuals by strengthening solidarity networks so that they are more resilient, even in difficult times."
A second report highlights the importance of social workers. They are, as it were, the voice of groups that all too often go unheard. "Various emergency measures offered solutions for 'the majority', but overlooked the fact that not everyone has the same resources," explains Professor Karel Arnaut. Examples include seasonal workers or student workers who suddenly lost their jobs but could not fall back on temporary unemployment benefits. But also the large-scale switch to digital consultations with service providers where it is too often assumed that everyone has the same digital proficiency and access. "Our study report has brought to light the fact that COVID-19 is not an acute crisis, but for many is part of a chronic story."
