Politicians, policy makers and public servants have never faced a situation like this. They immediately need policies that really work. Best practices can serve as an inspiration, a starting point and a proof of concept.
Technology and social media empower parliament committees to hold meetings
Committee hearings that would normally be open to the public are now livestreamed. Also, witnesses and submitters can participate by video conference or teleconference.
Virtual assistants answer citizens’ pressing questions related to Covid-19
The government of Panama developed two virtual assistants named Rosa and Paco. Both help citizens by answering questions about health and security matters during the coronavirus crisis.
Government funding competition for businesses
By fast-tracking innovation, the UK government aims to become better placed to maintain employment levels and make the UK more resilient to similar disruptions.
Building a global open-source platform for low-cost solutions
The United Nations Development Programme and Hackster.io join forces with the world’s brightest technology companies to develop solutions for those who will be hardest hit by this pandemic.
An initiative brings together volunteer teachers and families
La Classe à la Maison connects volunteer teachers and children and parents from kindergarten to 5th grade to ensure high-quality distance learning during the pandemic.
A government platform to inform about EdTech
As many EdTech projects are still unknown to teachers, parents and children, the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry provides an overview of potential offers.
A municipality’s free online home fitness service
To keep its citizens fit during quarantine, the municipality of Chiavari, in partnership with health professionals, started free online fitness classes.
Website lists local support services
A website launched by the city administration of Rheinfelden gives its citizens an overview of local support services.
Issuing a call to creatives to reach audiences of all types
Creatives can help to help spread public health messages in ways which are effective, accessible and shareable.
Virtual assistant providing reliable information
In Latvia, an easily integrable chatbot offers reliable information on Covid-19.
Deferring businesses’ taxes and utility bills
To help businesses survive the coronavirus pandemic and giving them more flexibility, the city of Seattle is deferring businesses’ taxes and utility bills.
Providing information for voluntary services
To allow for smooth and un-bureacratic administrative support for voluntary services, the regional government of Rhineland-Palatine has set up an information initiative.