Research Snapshot: Trust and resilience during COVID-19

How to maintain effective health service delivery in the face of crises, shocks and stressors has long been debated. Health systems which can do this – as well as learn from this experience and strengthen their services, structures and organisations – are labelled resilient. However, it is still unclear what builds and enables resilience, especially in the face of unprecedented global

This study found that an open culture of learning, sensitivity and commitment towards beneficiaries, and autonomous decision making are critical for meeting population needs. In addition, being historically present, providing services and interventions that are contextually relevant, builds trust with the community.

While this research was conducted within a specific health system, lessons may be widely useful to other systems dealing with a long-term humanitarian crisis.

This snapshot contains key messages, findings, implications for humanitarian policymakers and practitioners and recommendations for further research.