The COVID-19 pandemic consequences to the activity of NGOs

Abstract

The aim of the research is to determine the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for activities carried out by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). Moreover, there will be conducted an assessment of the differences in the perceived effects of the pandemic by NGOs due to their activity areas. The analyzes are based on the results of a survey that was carried out among representatives of NGOs in the period April-May 2020. The descriptive analysis was conducted on the basis of survey data. Additionally, a chi-square test of independence will be carried out to verify the differences in the perceived effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in the groups of NGOs established based on the criteria area of activity. The results obtained enable us to point out the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in a very short time horizon - the next 4 and 8 weeks – for NGOs in the area of the possibility of fully financing the salary costs, as well as the ability to provide services to clients/beneficiaries. The paper establishes the frequency of concerns regarding the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic (such as loss of income, the need to dismiss employees). In addition, it will outline the most pressing challenges faced by NGOs to the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and assess the outlook after the pandemic. The paper fills the gap in the knowledge of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic for NGOs.