Collective approach positive

Marios Psaltis PwC Hellas CEO

The conditions we are experiencing on a worldwide level are unprecedented and resemble a state of war. The fact that we are fighting against an invisible threat is fueling anxiety and fear in society, which now, more than ever, needs leadership that will give it direction.

This crisis is fundamentally different from previous ones, as it has not been caused by the economy, but by a pandemic, with unpredictable consequences for human health.

The effort to cope with it has financial consequences that cannot be foreseen at this stage. Scientists at the forefront of this effort, and then politicians, are being called upon to manage an extremely critical situation, without having all the necessary data at their disposal. At the same time, they are giving the health system time to prepare for the next, more difficult phase.

The critical level of the situation merits leadership capable of managing uncertainty, organizing public administration and gaining the trust of society, which is being called upon to obey difficult decisions and constraints affecting the daily lives of all.

Despite the situation, the government appears to be winning the battle. Displaying calmness and determination, it seems to have an organized management plan. At the same time, by constantly providing updates to the public, it is gaining its trust. Citizens and the business world are responding with an impressive level of self-discipline with regard to the restrictions imposed and the hygiene guidelines.

Tackling this crisis collectively should leave a positive legacy for the day after. The second positive that appears to be emerging is the intention at the European level to collectively tackle the economic impact of the pandemic as it has negative repercussions for all countries. The decisions taken to support and strengthen national economies after the end of this asymmetric “war” will also determine the future of Europe.

Like any crisis, it will create opportunities the day after, when science will have defeated the enemy.