About COVID-19 pandemic through complexity lens

Abstract

Introduction: In August last year and January this year, two teams of researchers looked at the epidemic in an unusual way: through a complexity lens using knowledge from taxonomy.

Opinion: As the behaviour of complex systems is fundamentally unpredictable, the resources and measures of protection must be planned and provided accordingly. It is therefore worthwhile to build up health, economic and social reserves and capacities to cope with unforeseen events, and to establish a legal framework for rapid action, etc.

Understanding the epidemic as a complex system highlights the need for different governance mechanisms. Simultaneous and multisectoral decisions need to be taken quickly, drawing on a wide range of expertise, realities and past experience, taking into account the uncertain impact of measures. Innovative decision-making mechanisms, monitoring and evaluation systems need to be built to prevent future epidemics and to mitigate their impact.

The epidemic has also highlighted the fact that human activity on Earth has become so dominant that it threatens its very existence through global pandemics by disrupting the self-sustaining balance of the environment, in addition to climate change, air pollution, water, and food shortages. Urgent action is needed to avert the threat, to reduce the risks and to ensure sustainable use of environmental and social resources.

Conclusion: To understand the complexities of the COVID epidemic and to be able to respond effectively, it is essential to apply the complexity lens. For a successful and coordinated response, it is essential that all stakeholders are aware of the complex nature of the epidemic. Awareness of the complexity can be achieved through a broad awareness campaign and the operation of credible communication resources.