The research program NRP 80 focuses on understanding and addressing the societal challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland. It aims to provide evidence-based guidance and knowledge to effectively manage the current and future pandemics. The program specifically emphasizes the perspectives of social sciences and humanities.
The objectives of NRP 80 are threefold. Firstly, it aims to comprehend the societal dimensions and processes of the pandemic, considering both short-term and long-term effects. Secondly, it seeks to identify factors and measures for optimal pandemic management within Switzerland. Lastly, it aims to extract generalizable knowledge from the COVID-19 pandemic to inform proactive management of future pandemics.
To achieve its goals, NRP 80 coordinates and expands research in the humanities and social sciences related to pandemic-induced crises. It promotes collaboration and exchange between academia, politics, and society. The research findings will be used to develop evidence-based strategies and recommendations for decision-making during and after pandemics.
The research phase of NRP 80 will span three years, starting in December 2022, with a budget of CHF 14 million. Active knowledge transfer is a central aspect, and the program engages closely with relevant stakeholder groups in society. Various communication tools and channels will be utilized to disseminate findings and recommendations, including events, publications, websites, media outlets, social media, newsletters, and reports.
Members of the LIVES Centre are leading 4 of the 25 projects selected by the Swiss National Science Foundation in the humanities and social sciences.
- The COVID generation: Identifying risks and protective factors for young people's pathways through the COVID-19 pandemic in Switzerland
Marieke Voorpostel, Leen Vandecasteele, Nuria Sanchez, Stephanie Steinmetz - Impacts of Covid-19 and policy measures on trade, labor demand, and job finding
Rafael Lalive - The practice of family law during the Covid-19 pandemic: digital justice and gender inequalities
Michelle Cottier, Gaelle Aeby, Eric Widmer - Fit for crisis? Social policy in times of Covid-19: a longitudinal mixed-method approach
Emilie Rosenstein, Matthias Studer, Nicolas Pons-Vignon, Aline Duvoisin