Recently, we have started to receive the first news that various parts of Europe are cautiously beginning to lift restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, there are speculations about a second wave, and we are urged not to believe that it is all over yet.
The peak in cases is expected at the end of May and the beginning of June. Despite still being in the midst of the crisis, we have been living for some time in the “new abnormal.” The immediate consequences for each of us have been ongoing for a while. What the pandemic will mean in terms of changes is still hard to see. Some reflections feel relevant.
Firstly, we are not all in the same boat. Everyday life changed for most people, but in very different ways. The smallest common denominator was that there were changes.
Some work almost exclusively remotely, many with family members around them. Some are busier than ever at their regular workplace, while others’ workplaces have been closed by government decision.
So, yes, we have all experienced a changed daily life – but no, we are definitely not in the same boat.
A large portion has been furloughed; how many will lose their jobs or go bankrupt, we do not yet know. Others have had to take a vacation, earlier than planned, and without the opportunity to engage in what they want, such as travel, cultural events, sports matches, etc.
Some have been temporarily relocated within organizations and given new tasks. So, yes, we have all experienced a changed daily life – but no, we are definitely not in the same boat.
Secondly, we have “critical” jobs and “other work.” What are critical societal functions? Somewhat pointedly, it is the low-paid work performed by women.
It is with very mixed feelings that I have seen news from around the world where people applaud in the evening for all those working in healthcare. It is nice to show appreciation, but when we truly prioritize what are “critical” functions, it seems to be other indicators and functions that come into play than when we talk about salaries and appreciation in the “normal daily life.”
Living in central Helsinki, I see how bicycle couriers are pedaling around with food deliveries more than before. For some reason, I get the impression that many of these young men on their bikes could be first-generation immigrants.
Thirdly, there is a great deal of willingness to help and support; Helsinki Help, organized by the city and the congregations in Helsinki, helps residents over 70 years old. The model is being copied. Many organizations and companies have been innovative in developing their services according to new needs.
When things come to a head, both weaknesses and strengths are revealed.
Unhindered by remote work and the changed daily life, new creative solutions and models for doing things in a different or new way have been quickly put into use. Researchers have started collaborating to understand both the virus and how it affects us.
Finally, when things come to a head, both weaknesses and strengths are revealed. The coordination of decisions and how different levels of authorities make conflicting and/or divergent decisions on the same issue have been very difficult for organizations to handle. Given the ongoing preparation of the social and health care reform, even though it has not received much media attention now, there are many lessons to learn about cooperation between different levels of authorities.
One clear strength that has emerged is that when it really matters, almost everyone steps up for the common good, even if it means sacrificing their own convenience.
This article by Georg Henrik Wrede was previously published in Swedish on Kommuntorget.