The theory of wicked problems, originating from Western academic discussion, has evolved since the 2000s toward a universal diagnostic of societal challenges. In this article, we employ a systematic literature review to investigate the application of the concept of wicked problems in studies focusing on the African context. Our aim is to understand the additional value and limitations of using the concept in a non-Western frame of reference. We conclude that the concept remains underutilized in studies concentrating on Africa; moreover, when it is used, it is mainly by academics of Western or Anglophone origin. Overall, the concept of wicked problems is mainly applied descriptively rather than theoretically. Based on the analysis of the themes and issues characterized as wicked, we elaborate toward a typology that takes account of the concrete “manifestations” (e.g., health issues such as AIDS/HIV and its treatment history) and “mechanisms” (e.g., historical path dependency) that condition the presence of wicked problems in the African context. The article contributes to the theory of wicked problems by developing a typology that distinguishes between interlinked and contextual problems (often characterized through the concept of “dual wickedness”), and proposes that problems can become exacerbated when the two dimensions are simultaneously present.
Dynamics between trust in institutions and restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Finland Governance of the COVID-19 pandemic is based on the premise that as many citizens as possible follow guidelines and restrictions set by authorities. Successful implementation of these has depended on citizens’ trust. This study examines the dynamics between changes in citizens’ trust in institutions, changes in COVID-19 related restrictions, and changes in the number of COVID-19 cases in Finland between May 2020 and January 2022 using a visual timeline. Changes in citizens’ trust in institutions are evident between surveys, but no clear link between changes in trust and restrictions is evident. Measuring citizen trust during crises is important, as changes can provide governments with information on citizens’ views of the legitimacy and success of crisis leadership, governance, and ultimately, the political system.
The governance of the COVID-19 pandemic in Finland in 2020-2022: Aims and modes of governance and their uses Governance related to the COVID-19 pandemic in Finland revolved around the actions of the government and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. This article examines this governance by focusing on holistic (whole-of-government; network governance and participation) and reductionistic (coping and taming) modes of governance inspired by literature on the governance of wicked problems. Each mode includes a specific understanding of the problem at hand and the actions introduced to resolve it. In addition, securitization is viewed as a reductionistic mode of governance, but also as a way of justifying the usage of different modes of governance. The results highlight the centrality of the sectoral ministries and pre-existing governance structures. In addition, the results pinpoint how securitization may have been involved in the enactment of various policies, and not only drastic measures.
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