Obstacles and Opportunities for Effective Implementation: A Case Study of COVID-19 Crisis Policy in Kurdistan Province

Regardless of the effectiveness of the policy during the formulation stage, it is crucial for the policy to be seamlessly integrated and solidified within the actual procedures and practices of the local destination of implementation. This integration is essential for realizing the intended benefits of the policy. This study aims to identify and categorize obstacles and opportunities for effective implementation of Covid-19 crisis policies in the executive bodies of Kurdistan Province. 

Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected through interviews with 32 employees from five government organizations: The health network, education network, banking network, traffic police, and governorate organizations. 

Data were analyzed based on a conceptual model consisting of fourteen factors. The study identified several obstacles and inhibiting factors, including a lack of facilities, non-cooperation of the people, insufficient financial support from the government, incorrect information from organizations, and limited interaction between people and organizations. Opportunities and drivers of implementation included problem-solving through disobeying orders, the sacrifice of employees, high levels of inter-organizational cooperation, problem-solving through consultation with higher authorities, and increased interaction between people and organizations. The findings provide insights for policymakers and practitioners on effective implementation of crisis policies at the local level. 

Effective crisis management necessitates social participation and recognition of the influential role of media, within both organizational and citizen levels. Policymakers and government executives should utilize the potential of public participation and the media to formulate and implement crisis policies, thereby addressing any potential weaknesses in policy formulation through collaboration and empathy.