Comparing and Contrasting the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic in the European Union

"An insightful comparative assessment of the varying responses of European countries to the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic, informed by an in-depth understanding of the health and social services institutional frameworks within which these operated. Invaluable if we are to learn lessons for future strategies."

Professor Susanne MacGregor, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine

"This book is an exceptionally welcome addition to the growing volume of evidence concerning the first wave of the pandemic. It addresses a central dimension of policy and public health debates about what we can learn about the impact of COVID-19 in other countries and their responses to the pandemic. Importantly, the book identifies the methodological pitfalls and difficulties in making cross-national comparisons and the significance of policy contexts and public healthcare systems. Amidst the clamour of the different disciplines, the book is a rare example of what policymakers can learn from the voice of social science."

Julia Brannen, Emerita Professor, UCL Institute of Education

This book by Linda Hantrais and Marie-Thérèse Letablier is timely and highly pertinent. Their assessment of Europe’s divergent policies and practical action in the coronavirus pandemic will be vital as policymakers consider next steps in present and future strategies. Effective public health care depends on avoiding pitfalls of previous policy management in turbulent times. There has been undoubted confusion over Covid19 in the minds of both policymakers and publics across the continent, so this clearly written assessment of responses by public and private health and social services is much needed. The book will prove the key reference for academics, historians and policymakers dealing with future pandemics."

David Spence, European Commission