Funkcjonowanie jednostek samorządu terytorialnego podczas pandemii COVID-19

Abstract

The article highlights the role of the Polish local authorities in counteracting the COVID-19 pandemic as well as minimising its impact. As a local level decentralised public administration, self-government becomes responsible for meeting the local communities needs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the activities of local authorities were focused mainly on supporting: 1. health system; 2. local entrepreneurs; 3. social assistance institutions; 4. the most vulnerable citizens (the elderly, the sick, the handicapped, isolated or quarantined individuals). The main problem faced by local authorities was the need to increase the aid expenditure and the reduction of their revenue sources (especially their own revenue) at the same time. Despite all difficulties, local authorities have an understandable role to play in combating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.