Socio-economical risks of the pandemic period and practices to overcome them: governments’ policies and citizens’ strategies

The article is devoted to the reaction of the societies of four countries (the United States, Great Britain, Italy and Russia) to the global risks and challenges associated with the spread of the coronavirus epidemic, which has grown from a health problem to a global political and economic one. Considering the socio-economic risks of the pandemic as the most significant for the lives of citizens of different countries, the authors operationalize them through the fears of public consciousness. The events of the last year have shown that the increased fear and panic among the population in the face of “new infections” has turned into a global problem. The specifics of the life organization in the context of the spread of the pandemic have contributed to the emergence of new distinct socio-economic and socio-political practices that require analysis. The obvious request to the authorities from the population of different countries to ensure the adoption of timely and effective measures to prevent the spread of infection and minimize its consequences also actualize the study of public attitudes during the pandemic in a comparative context. Based on a comparative international online survey, the main socio-economic risks and fears of residents of the four countries were identified, which included both general threats to well-being (low incomes, unemployment, lack of prospects in life, housing problems, etc.) and threats actualized by the pandemic situation (difficulties in obtaining medical care, the high cost of medicines, the inability to go on vacation, difficulties with obtaining education). The differences in satisfaction with the socio-economic situation in the countries, including the response to the actions of governments and local authorities, were analyzed. The review of individual strategies for coping with crisis situations showed significant differences across countries. At the same time, in assessing the activities of the authorities, respondents demonstrate unanimity, showing dissatisfaction with the measures taken and concern for their well-being in the future. The conclusion is made about the actualization of socio-economic fears during the spread of the pandemic and the widespread deterioration of the social well-being of the population.