Polarization Dynamics: Anti-pandemic Measures and Societal Impact in Czechia

• In Event: Mobilization and Polarization in Central and Eastern Europe

Abstract

Changes in societal rules can fuel polarization, as evidenced in our analysis of the effects of anti-pandemic measures on Czech society. Using 30 waves of a longitudinal panel survey from 2020-2022, we explore perception differences among voters of different parties on Covid-19 measures. Our study investigates how adherence to measures like mask-wearing and vaccination varies among ideological groups, connecting compliance to sociodemographic factors, political preferences, and media consumption. Analyzing this dataset helps us grasp the broader societal impact of restrictions and their impact on political attitudes. We reveal a consistent increase in polarization over time, especially among right-wing populist party supporters, closely linked to the intensified implementation of measures. These findings have significant implications for understanding political polarization during the COVID-19 crisis.

Authors

• Tomas Cirhan, Charles University

• Jakub Stauber, Charles University