The Impact of the Pandemic and War on the State of Global Supply Chains

Abstract: Title: The Impact of the Pandemic and War on the State of Global Supply Chains Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to outline the current state of global supply chains and global energy supply as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as Russia-Ukraine war. Current energy and supply chain issues are explored and discussed based on existing theory on the topic. When the overall issues are clarified, potential solutions to the problems are outlined and expanded on. Methodology: The thesis is based on a literature study involving reviews of various relevant studies and articles in order to establish a thorough understanding of the topic as a basis for further analysis. Research Questions: ● How will businesses need to change their handling of their global supply chains, as a consequence of the pandemic and war, and what trends could already be observed? ● What effects have the war and pandemic had on global energy supply and what are the solutions to the current problems? ● How will companies efficiently understand and recognize its weaknesses related to their operations and changing surrounding factors? Findings: Both the Russia-Ukraine war and Covid-19 pandemic have exposed weaknesses in global supply chains. Strategies involving cost-efficiency have proved to be insufficient when faced with unprecedented disturbances. Major disruptions, shortages and delays on a global scale exemplify the issue. Businesses have to improve resilience throughout their supply chains. Examples of methods to achieve more resilient supply chains could involve inventory cushions, supplier diversification, localisation and gaining visibility throughout the operations.