Innovation policy responses to address vulnerabilities of national innovation systems: long-lasting impacts of COVID-19

Abstract

This special issue explores the vulnerabilities of national innovation systems (NIS) which were exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent policy responses. New technologies and solutions were needed such as new drugs, medical equipment, and treatments, and new innovative institutions, organizations, and capabilities were needed to respond quickly, develop, and offset the acute demand. While some policy responses were effective, others fell short or were completely absent. The phenomenon provided a unique opportunity to uncover how governments and industry sought to mitigate the negative impacts and to prepare for future crises by building more resilient NIS. The five articles included in this special issue identify some of the vulnerabilities of NIS, suggesting that greater research on the resilience of NIS is needed if we were to weather future crises more effectively. Subsequent policy implications for innovation systems are drawn to address the vulnerabilities highlighted.