Why some countries win and others loose from the COVID-19 pandemic? Navigating the uncertainty

Abstract

Purpose: This research presents a general framework for analysing factors associated with pandemic crisis management. The study intends to sharpen one thinking about improving the fight against Covid-19 and better understand the multiple drivers of planning and implementing a multidimensional anti-pandemic prevention system. Approach/Methodology/Design: This paper's insights have emerged iteratively by considering both theory and empirical data. The abductive reasoning and grounded theory were used during this study. Findings: TTT strategy, maintaining a social distance, and the consistency of decisions regarding the sanitary regime's conditions contribute to fighting the pandemic. However, duplicating solutions adopted in countries that are successful in combating Covid-19 by other countries requires considering social capital determinants. Countries that neglected sustainable development, including the care for social capital development, suffer consequences today. Other external factors caused the efficiency of combating Covid-19. Practical Implications: This study continues developing the pandemic crisis management theory and attempts to enrich it by pointing to success and failure factors. From the practical side, the research allows for several directional proposals, improving combating Covid-19. Originality/Value: This original study aims to determine universal factors of pandemic prevention efficacy. The research highlights the role of social capital in effectively combating the pandemic.