COVID-19: EU & France's Public Policy Responses (March 2020).pdf

highlights critical policy responses and developments across key European countries in response to the COVID-19 pandemic during the period of March 16th to 19th, 2020.

European Union:

Economic Support: The EU Commission proposes a €37 billion Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative, with an initial focus on a €50 million rescEU stockpile of medical equipment.
Scientific Guidance: A European team of scientific advisers has been assembled to formulate science-based risk management measures across the bloc.
Border Controls: The Commission has issued guidelines for member states regarding border measures, aiming for a balanced approach while halting virus spread.

France:

Economic Response: The government increases its economic aid package from €40 billion to €100 billion.
Confinement Measures: President Macron announces a 15-day national confinement with school and university closures, non-essential shops banned, and strict justification required for outings.
Parliamentary Concerns: 18 MPs and 4 staff members test positive, leading to a two-week closure of the National Assembly and a vote on postponing municipal elections.

Germany:

Hospital Preparedness: Federal and state governments are setting up an emergency plan to expand hospital capacity through converting rehabilitation facilities, hotels, and larger halls.
Financial Assurance: The National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds and Health Minister Jens Spahn guarantee financial security for healthcare facilities.
Public Awareness: Chancellor Merkel urges citizens to comply with precautionary measures to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Italy:

Economic Stimulus: A €25 billion emergency decree is passed, providing targeted support for self-employed workers, families, and businesses.
Strict Lockdowns: All non-essential services and shops are closed nationwide, with only essential goods, pharmacies, financial services, and other critical sectors remaining open.

Spain:

State of Emergency: The government intends to extend the state of emergency until April 11th, potentially longer, restricting freedom of movement and closing non-essential businesses.
Economic Package: An additional €200 billion stimulus package is pledged to support families, workers, self-employed individuals, and companies facing economic hardship.

United Kingdom:

Phased Response: The UK takes a more "relaxed" approach, focusing on containment, delay, research, and mitigation in a phased response.
Criticism of Communication: Government communication has been criticized for its lack of clarity regarding the pandemic's severity and their plans to address it.
Legislative Powers: Emergency regulations are being introduced, with draft legislation pending before Parliament granting the government significant powers to restrict social liberties and reduce regulatory requirements during the crisis.