WRR explores possible steps in the wake of COVID-19
The effects of the COVID-19 virus on the Netherlands are far-reaching. Because the complete extermination of the virus is not currently an option, the government is fully committed to ensuring that the healthcare sector does not become swamped and that vulnerable groups are given extra protection. At the same time, the government is seeking a balance between containing the virus as much as possible and limiting social and economic disruption.
Consequences
It is clear that this crisis is having, and will continue to have, major social, political and economic consequences. This is true in the both the short term, because of the unprecedented measures taken in response to the crisis, and in the long term: there is a strong likelihood that the crisis will lead to changes in our perception of the world and in the choices we make as a society.
Understanding and knowledge
The WRR is among those seeking to contribute towards gaining the understanding and knowledge required for addressing the enormous policy tasks that lie ahead. One of the ways it is doing so is by participating in the SER thinktank (Social and Economic Council), alongside the social partners and bodies such as the CPB Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis, the Netherlands Institute for Social Research, Statistics Netherlands, De Nederlandsche Bank and the Clingendael Institute. Additionally, the WRR is taking steps towards developing possible future options and a firm basis for the policy tasks that lie ahead in the long term. In doing so, it is seeking to assist the government and parliament as they shape future policies and face the currently unforeseeable effects of the crisis.