ABSTRACT

This chapter analyses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on culture and creative industries in Slovakia and the government's policy response over a one-year period. Analysis of financial and non-financial relief measures demonstrates the progress from general horizontal schemes to a more diverse portfolio of sector-specific aid programs. The arts, entertainment, and recreation sector are among the most affected parts of the economy by the pandemic. In a non-representative survey (N = 7,028) conducted in October 2020, the median value of reported inter-annual income drop was 70% for business companies and 65% for self-employed workers. In the first 12 months of the pandemic, direct economic measures to support the creative sectors totalled EUR 45 mil., with additional funds allocated for further disbursement. Proactivity, communication, recognizing sectoral specifics, better data collection, upskilling, and administration flexibility are identified as the main areas for improvement in planning and implementing relief and recovery policies.