Resilience Decoded: The Role of Firms, Global Value Chains and the State in COVID-19 Medical Supplies

California Management Review on “The Future of Value Chains in a Post-Pandemic World" Forthcoming

Bocconi University Management Research Paper

30 Pages Posted: 28 Sep 2022

See all articles by G. Gereffi

G. Gereffi

Duke University - Department of Sociology - Director, Center on Globalization, Governance & Competitiveness

Pavida Pananond

Thammasat University

Torben Petersen

Bocconi University - Department of Management and Technology

Date Written: January 14, 2022

Abstract

This paper examines the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on resilience. We argue that resilience is not a one-dimensional concept but has different meanings at the levels of the firm (operational efficiency), global value chains (appropriate governance), and the nation-state (national security). To decode and illustrate resilience dynamics, we draw lessons from case studies of four medical supply products— rubber gloves, face masks, ventilators, and vaccines— to explore how each adjusted to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We highlight key strategies that could guide managers and policymakers in building resilience for future supply-chain disruptions.

Suggested Citation

Gereffi, Gary and Pananond, Pavida and Petersen, Torben, Resilience Decoded: The Role of Firms, Global Value Chains and the State in COVID-19 Medical Supplies (January 14, 2022). California Management Review on “The Future of Value Chains in a Post-Pandemic World" Forthcoming, Bocconi University Management Research Paper, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=4229258 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4229258

Gary Gereffi (Contact Author)

Duke University - Department of Sociology - Director, Center on Globalization, Governance & Competitiveness ( email )

Box 90088
Durham, NC 27708-0204
United States
919-660-5880 (Phone)
919-684-2855 (Fax)

Pavida Pananond

Thammasat University ( email )

Bangkok, 10200
Thailand

Torben Petersen

Bocconi University - Department of Management and Technology ( email )

Via Roentgen 1
Milan, MI 20136
Italy

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