Countering Hybrid Threats Through Expert Consensus: the Case of the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study explores the impact of expert consensus and disagreement on public opinion regarding public health policies, with a particular focus on the policy measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Relying on an online survey of 1,148 respondents conducted in 2021 in the Czech Republic, the research investigates whether expert consensus and disagreement shape public support for policy measures, trust in scientists and medical professionals, and perceptions of government decision-making. The findings indicate that expert consensus significantly bolsters public support for stricter measures, trust in experts, and the belief that government policies should align with expert recommendations. Conversely, expert disagreement reduces public trust and support, even in highly salient and polarized topics like COVID-19. The results highlight the critical role of expert unity in shaping effective public communication and policy acceptance during crises. The findings can be useful for policies aimed at managing a variety of crises, including those that stem from hybrid interference.