Swimming in a sea of uncertainty – business, governance and the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine accounting-related issues that have emerged during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Design/methodology/approach The discussion is based on personal experience and observation of events and media reports in the UK, the USA and New Zealand. Findings Many problems that have emerged have varied owing to differences in the national governance of each country regarding the emphasis their governments and businesses have placed on short-run financialisation policies; the comprehensiveness of their information and control systems; their leadership and whether their discourse accords with events and expert advice; their degree of accountability and concern for public wellness; and the need to consider new taxation policies to meet the costs of the pandemic. Research limitations/implications This paper is based on personal observations owing to the restrictions on research access during the pandemic, and thus it reflects the author’s political opinions and beliefs. Practical implications This paper outlines areas where accounting could and has addressed the issues examined and recommends greater adoption globally of policies and systems designed to meet the United Nation’s sustainable development goals. Social implications The social implications are vast for they extend to major issues concerning preserving the planet, its species, humankind and enhanced democratic processes for civil society and developing countries. Originality/value A comparative analysis and evaluation of nations' control of of the coronavirus (COVID_19) pandemic. This lies in the eyes of the beholder.