Introduction to the Special Issue

According to the World Health Organization, a pandemic occurs when a newly discovered disease spreads rapidly across the globe. The capacity of states to respond to pandemics is determined by various factors, including the availability of resources, the level of development, scientific and technological advancements, and the quality of governance that allows for the effective implementation of policies with equitable outcomes. Along with lessons to be learned from the experience of New Zealand as one of the most competent managers of COVID-19, other studies have focused on predictors for receiving vaccines, government intervention strategies for preventing and controlling the virus through systems thinking, resilient leadership and life skills, support to women entrepreneurs, the role of policy actors in implementing social distancing, and co-creation of COVID-19 responses. Gauld noted the strain on the health system and advocated for financial help to ensure compliance with COVID-19 criteria to decrease negative repercussions on the public and business.