From Perception to Policy: insights for evidence-based preparedness policy in Slovenia and Ireland

Abstract This presentation explores two key challenges in using cross-national behavioural data to inform preparedness and resilience policymaking: 1) why behavioural data is so important (Slovenia) and 2) achieving policy buy-in (Ireland). In Slovenia, findings from the March 2024 European Pandemic Preparedness Behaviour survey (n = 1.522) reveal a gap between perceived and actual preparedness. While 52% felt well prepared for a potential lockdown, only 47.2% said they would stay home when symptomatic, and fewer than one-third had all the recommended emergency stockpile. Vaccine confidence was also low-only 42.3% believed vaccines are safe, and 52.9% thought they are effective. These results highlight the complexity of preparedness behaviours and underscore the need for targeted, evidence-based interventions to enhance confidence, readiness and compliance with preventive measures during future pandemics. In Ireland, the focus is on the policymaking process itself-specifically, the barriers and enablers policymakers face when integrating behavioural evidence into public health planning. Although behavioural science has informed Ireland's COVID-19 response and continues to shape policy, building long-term preparedness requires sustained collaboration and foresight. This case study reflects on how Ireland's Department of Health has applied data from the Pandemic Preparedness Survey to guide emergency planning and shares insights into how researchers can foster policy buy-in throughout the research lifecycle. Together, these case studies from Slovenia and Ireland emphasize the vital role of behavioural science in developing resilient, evidence-based policies for future public health crises.