A (care)ethical analysis of the COVID-19 policy choices

How does government policy continue to care for everyone, even in crisis situations? The government took drastic measures to contain the corona pandemic. That policy was successful, but there is also criticism. Vulnerable groups were given extra treatment, but had little say. Policy considerations were one-sided and had limited ethical substantiation. At the same time, it became clear how important good care is for a fair and resilient society. Goal The aim of this project is to develop a care ethics policy framework that will help deal with future crises in a more inclusive manner. The research explores the impact of the measures on four groups: people with an intellectual disability, the elderly, people in the palliative phase and refugees. Relatives, healthcare providers and policy makers also have their say. Research design In addition to developing a care ethics policy framework, a policy analysis and insights from interest groups are part of this project. Together these are the building blocks for the new policy framework, which will be widely shared. Methodology: semi-structured interviews, focus groups, working conferences, discourse analysis, normative analysis First results Vulnerability, responsibility and necessity as key concepts in government discourse Vulnerability is narrowly understood at the outset of the crisis as related to a person's physical health status. The government is broadening its perspective on vulnerability as the crisis continues. Necessity is prioritized as a factor that drastically limits the government's room for choice. Although the need for taking measures is clearly highlighted, taking specific measures is justified less extensively in government letters. Responsibility is portrayed as shared between government, society and various groups and institutions. A clearer division of specific responsibilities, in which the government defines and communicates its political responsibility more clearly, is desirable. Report of meeting COVID-19 and Vulnerable groups on February 10, 2021 There is a large group of citizens in the public domain who are hit hard by the consequences of COVID-19 due to their vulnerable position. What are the needs of these vulnerable citizens? During the meeting on February 10, 2021, researchers showed what is going on and what we can do to address bottlenecks and meet needs. View the report of the meeting: Vulnerable citizens during the corona pandemic . Executive parties University of Humanistics, Doctors of the World, Pharos, PZNL, Relief, Tao of Care More information