Emergency solutions in the field of social security caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in selected countries that are parties of the European Code of Social Security

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to present extraordinary solutions in the field of social security, adopted by states - parties to the European Code of Social Security (EKZS) in the event of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their verification in relation to the represented model of social policy and ETUC standards Materials and methods: To achieve the aim of the work, research methods based on inductive reasoning were used, related to the research of the literature on the subject, reports of countries on the implementation of the European Code of Social Security for the period from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020, as well as searching internet resources. Based on the information contained in the analyzed sources, secondary research was carried out, including an in-depth analysis of activities undertaken in Sweden, Great Britain and Belgium. Spain and Estonia in relation to four main areas of support, i.e., health care system, job protection and financial relief for employers, support for small and medium-sized enterprises and social transfers.Results: The generally accepted policies and strategies of countries in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic were consistent with the represented model of social policy. However, in many cases, specific, detailed actions by states deviated from this model. In terms of sickness, unemployment and old age benefits, the states introduced higher standards than those set by the Code. On the other hand, the regulations were not properly applied to medical care, as delays in planned procedures and operations for patients with other diseases were noted due to the treatment of people infected with COVID-19.