CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that MISS.JAYA KUMARI of Master in

commerce (M.COM) 4 semester of BINOD BIHARI MAHTO
KOYLANCHAL (UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT) has completed his
project under my guidance.He has taken proper care and
shown almost sincerity that this project is upto my expectation
and per the guidelines issued by BINOD BIHARI MAHTO
KOYLANCHAL UNIVERSITY.

The project report on”EFFECTS OF COVID-19 IN JHARKHAND”

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree of POST GRADUATE MASTER OF COMMERCE
TO

BINOD BIHARI MAHTO KOYLANCHAL UNIVERSITY

FACULTY GUIDE

Professor :L.B.PALIWAL

1
 Student declaration
I Here by declare that the project report conducted on
“EFFECT OF COVID-19 IN JHARKHAND”
(PAPER 16)
Under the guidance of Dr.L.B.Paliwal
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for
the Degree of
POST GRADUATE IN MASTER IN COMMERCE
TO
BINOD BIHARI MAHTO KOYLANCHAL,COLLEGE
DHANBAD
It’s my original work and the same has not been
submitted for any other Degree/Diploma or other
similar titles.
Place:DHANBAD Student Name Registration no.

JAYA KUMARI C-H /2018

2
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It is really a matter of pleasure for me to get an opportunity to
thank all the persons who contributed to complete the project
on time.I would like to express my special thanks to my
Proffesor Dr.L.B.Paliwal as well as our Principal who gave
me the golden opportunity to do the wonderful project on the
topic EFFECT OF COVID- 19 IN JHARKHAND ,(PAPER 16).Which
also helped me in doing a lot of Research and I came to know
about many new things.
I am also thankful to my parents and my friend who help me to
fulfillmy requirement support in many ways.
I sincerely acknowledgment the effort of all those who have
directly or indirectly help me in completing me the dissertation
project (paper 16)
I am really thankful to them.
I am making this project not only for marks but also for
increasing my knowledge.
THANKS AGAIN TO ALL THOSE WHO HELPED ME.

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CONTENTS

4
 History of Coronavirus
The earliest reports of an illness caused by a coronavirus occurred in the late 1920s,
when an acute respiratory infection of domesticated chickens emerged in North
America.[15][16] Arthur Schalk and M.C. Hawn in 1931 made the first detailed report which
described a new respiratory infection of chickens in North Dakota. The infection of new-
born chicks was characterized by gasping and listlessness with high mortality rates of
40–90%.[17] Leland David Bushnell and Carl Alfred Brandly isolated the virus in 1933.
[18]
 The virus was then known as infectious bronchitis virus (IBV). Charles D. Hudson
and Fred Robert Beaudette cultivated the virus for the first time in 1937. [19] The
specimen came to be known as the Beaudette strain. In the late 1940s, two more
animal coronaviruses, JHM that causes brain disease (murine encephalitis) and mouse
hepatitis virus (MHV) that causes hepatitis in mice were discovered. [20] It was not
realized at the time that these three different viruses were related. [21]
Human coronaviruses were discovered in the 1960s [22][23] using two different methods in
the United Kingdom and the United States.[24] E.C. Kendall, Malcolm Bynoe, and David
Tyrrell working at the Common Cold Unit of the British Medical Research
Council collected a unique common cold virus designated B814 in 1961.[25][26][27] The
virus could not be cultivated using standard techniques which had successfully
cultivated rhinoviruses, adenoviruses and other known common cold viruses. In 1965,
Tyrrell and Bynoe successfully cultivated the novel virus by serially passing it
through organ culture of human embryonic trachea.[28] The new cultivating method was
introduced to the lab by Bertil Hoorn.[29] The isolated virus when
intranasally inoculated into volunteers caused a cold and was inactivated by ether which
indicated it had a lipid envelope.[25][30] Dorothy Hamre[31] and John Procknow at
the University of Chicago isolated a novel cold from medical students in 1962. They
isolated and grew the virus in kidney tissue culture, assigning it as 229E. The novel
virus caused a cold in volunteers and was inactivated by ether similarly as B814. [32]

Scottish virologist June Almeida at St. Thomas Hospital in London, collaborating with

Tyrrell, compared the structures of IBV, B814 and 229E in 1967. [33][34] Using electron
microscopy the three viruses were shown to be morphologically related by their general
shape and distinctive club-like spikes.[35] A research group at the National Institute of
Health the same year was able to isolate another member of this new group of viruses
using organ culture and named one of the samples OC43 (OC for organ culture). [36] Like
B814, 229E, and IBV, the novel cold virus OC43 had distinctive club-like spikes when
observed with the electron microscope. [37][38]
The IBV-like novel cold viruses were soon shown to be also morphologically related to
the mouse hepatitis virus.[20] This new group of viruses were named coronaviruses after
their distinctive morphological appearance.[10] Human coronavirus 229E and human
coronavirus OC43 continued to

5
6
What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or
humans.  In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections
ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East
Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The
most recently discovered coronavirus. causes covid 19. Coronavirus disease is an
infectious disease caused by a newly discovered covid 19

Most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate
respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment.  Older people, and
those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic
respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is be well informed about the
COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. Protect yourself and others
from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not
touching your face. 

The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the
nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also
practice respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow).

At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19. However, there
are many ongoing clinical trials evaluating potential treatments. WHO will continue to
provide updated information as soon as clinical findings become available.

7
What are the symptoms of
COVID-19?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Other
symptoms that are less common and may affect some patients include aches and
pains, nasal congestion, headache, conjunctivitis, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of taste or
smell or a rash on skin or discoloration of fingers or toes. These symptoms are usually
mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but only have very mild
symptoms.

Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing hospital treatment.
Around 1 out of every 5 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops
difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high
blood pressure, heart and lung problems, diabetes, or cancer, are at higher risk of
developing serious illness.  However, anyone can catch COVID-19 and become
seriously ill.  People of all ages who experience fever and/or  cough associated
withdifficulty breathing/shortness of breath, chest pain/pressure, or loss of speech or
movement should seek medical attention immediately. If possible, it is recommended to
call the health care provider or facility first, so the patient can be directed to the right
clinic.

8
 Prevention Of COVID-19
We can reduce our chances of being infected or spreading COVID-19 by taking some
simple precautions:

 Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or
wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water
or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
 Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and others. Why?
When someone coughs, sneezes, or speaks they spray small liquid droplets from
their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can
breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person has the
disease.
 Avoid going to crowded places. Why? Where people come together in crowds,
you are more likely to come into close contact with someone that has COVID-19
and it is more difficult to maintain physical distance of 1 metre (3 feet).
 Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Why? Hands touch many surfaces and
can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your
eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and infect you.
 Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This
means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you
cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately and wash your
hands. Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene, you
protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
 Stay home and self-isolate even with minor symptoms such as cough, headache,
mild fever, until you recover. Have someone bring you supplies. If you need to
leave your house, wear a mask to avoid infecting others. Why? Avoiding contact
with others will protect them from possible COVID-19 and other viruses.
 If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention, but
call by telephone in advance if possible and follow the directions of your local
health authority. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to
date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your
health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also
protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections.
 Keep up to date on the latest information from trusted sources, such as WHO or
your local and national health authorities. Why? Local and national authorities
are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect
themselves.

9
Safe use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers
To protect yourself and others against COVID-19, clean your
hands frequently and thoroughly. Use alcohol-based hand
sanitizer or wash your hands with soap and water. If you use an
alcohol-based hand sanitizer, make sure you use and store
it carefully.

o Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizers out of

children’s reach. Teach them how to apply
the sanitizer and monitor its use.
o Apply a coin-sized amount on your hands.
There is no need to use a large amount of
the product.
o Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose
immediately after using an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer, as it can cause irritation.
o Hand sanitizers recommended to protect
against COVID-19 are alcohol-based and
therefore can be flammable. Do not use
before handling fire or cooking.
o Under no circumstance, drink or let children
swallow an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It
can be poisonous. 
o Remember that washing your hands with
soap and water is also effective against
COVID-19.

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11
12
 How does COVID-19 spread?
 People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease
spreads primarily from person to person through small droplets from the nose or
mouth, which are expelled when a person with COVID-19 coughs, sneezes, or
speaks. These droplets are relatively heavy, do not travel far and quickly sink to
the ground. People can catch COVID-19 if they breathe in these droplets from a
person infected with the virus.  This is why it is important to stay at least 1 meter)
away from others. These droplets can land on objects and surfaces around the
person such as tables, doorknobs and handrails.  People can become
infected by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or
mouth.  This is why it is important to wash your hands regularly with soap and
water or clean with alcohol-based hand rub.

 WHO is assessing ongoing research on the ways that COVID-19 is spread and
will continue to share updated findings.

Practicing hand and respiratory hygiene is important at ALL times and is the best way to
protect others and yourself.

When possible maintain at least a 1 meter distance between yourself and others. This is
especially important if you are standing by someone who is coughing or sneezing. 
Since some infected persons may not yet be exhibiting symptoms or their symptoms
may be mild, maintaining a physical distance with everyone is a good idea if you are in
an area where COVID-19 is circulating. 

13
 What do you mean by Self-
isolation

Self-isolation is an important measure taken by those who have COVID-19 symptoms to

avoid infecting others in the community, including family members.

Self-isolation is when a person who is experiencing fever, cough or other COVID-19

symptoms stays at home and does not go to work, school or public places. This can be
voluntarily or based on his/her health care provider’s recommendation. However, if you
live in an area with malaria or dengue fever it is important that you do not ignore
symptoms of fever. Seek medical help. When you attend the health facility wear a mask
if possible, keep at least 1 metre distant from other people and do not touch surfaces
with your hands. If it is a child who is sick help the child stick to this advice.

If you do not live in an area with malaria or dengue fever please do the following:

-  If a person is in self-isolation, it is because he/she is ill but not severely ill

(requiring medical attention)

 have a large, well-ventilated with hand-hygiene and toilet facilities

 If this is not possible, place beds at least 1 metre apart
 Keep at least 1 metre from others, even from your family members
 Monitor your symptoms daily
 Isolate for 14 days, even if you feel healthy
 If you develop difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider immediately – call
them first if possible
 Stay positive and energized by keeping in touch with loved ones by phone or online, and
by exercising yourself at home.

14
What is the difference between self-
isolation, self-quarantine and
distancing?
Quarantine means restricting activities or separating people who are not
ill themselves but may have been exposed to COVID-19. The goal is to prevent spread
of the disease at the time when people just develop symptoms..

Isolation means separating people who are ill with symptoms of COVID-19 and

may be infectious to prevent the spread of the disease.

Physical distancing means being physically apart. WHO recommends keeping

at least 1-metre distance from others. This is a general measure that everyone should
take even if they are well with no known exposure to COVID-19. 

15
Is there a vaccine, drug or
treatment for COVID-19?
While some western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate
symptoms of mild COVID-19, there are no medicines that have been shown to prevent
or cure the disease. WHO does not recommend self-medication with any medicines,
including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for COVID-19. However, there are several
ongoing clinical trials of both western and traditional medicines. WHO is coordinating
efforts to develop vaccines and medicines to prevent and treat COVID-19 and will
continue to provide updated information as soon research results become available.

The most effective ways to protect yourself and others against COVID-19 are to:

 Clean your hands frequently and thoroughly

 Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose
 Cover your cough with the bend of elbow or tissue. If a tissue is used, discard it
immediately and wash your hands.
 Maintain a distance of at least 1 metre from others. 

16
How to properly wear a medical
mask?
If we choose to wear a mask:
1. Before touching the mask, clean hands with an alcohol-based hand
rub or soap and water
2. Take the mask and inspect it for tears or holes.
3. Orient which side is the top side (where the metal strip is).
4. Ensure the proper side of the mask faces outwards (the coloured
side).
5. Place the mask to your face. Pinch the metal strip or stiff edge of the
mask so it moulds to the shape of your nose.
6. Pull down the mask’s bottom so it covers your mouth and your chin.
7. Do not touch the mask while you are wearing it for protection.
8. After use, take off the mask with clean hands; remove the elastic
loops from behind the ears while keeping the mask away from your
face and clothes, to avoid touching potentially contaminated surfaces
of the mask.
9. Discard the mask in a closed bin immediately after use. Do not reuse
the mask.
10. Perform hand hygiene after touching or discarding the mask – Use
alcohol-based hand rub or, if visibly soiled, wash your hands with
soap and water.

Be aware that there is a global shortage of medical masks (both surgical masks and
N95 masks). These should be reserved as much as possible for health care workers.

Remember that  masks are not a substitute for other, more effective ways to protect
yourself and others against COVID-19 such as frequently washing your hands, covering
your cough with the bend of elbow or tissue and maintain a distance of at least 1 meter
from others

17
COVID-19 pandemic in
Jharkhand
COVID-19 pandemic in Jharkhand

Disease COVID-19

Virus strain SARS-CoV-2

Location Jharkhand, India

Index case Ranchi

Arrival date 31 March 2020

(5 months, 1 week and 2 days)

Confirmed cases 8,683 (as of 31st July)

Active cases 4,830 (as of 31st July)

Recovered 3,770 (as of 31st July)

Deaths 83 (as of 31st July)

Fatality rate 9%

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The first case of the COVID-19 pandemic was confirmed in the Indian state
of Jharkhand on 31 March 2020 as a Malaysian women came positive on the test. [1] The
State has confirmed a total of 3613 cases including 23 deaths and 2243 recoveries as
on july 12th.

Chaibasa district headquarters of West Singhbhum launched coronavirus swab collection booth

which is India's first of the kind.[3] Chaibasa also launched remote-controlled robot called co-bot for
providing medicines and food and minimize the contact between the staff and the patients. [4] After
MGM Medical College in Jamshedpur and RIMS in Ranchi, ICMR gave approval for 2 more testing
facilities in the state namely, Patliputra Medical College in Dhanbad and TB Sanitorium Hospital in
Itki, Ranchi. So, the total testing facility in the state stands at 4. [5]

19
 Statistics
Total
Distric Recovere Death Activ
case
t d s e
s

Ranchi 387 192 7 188

Bokaro 87 45 2 40

Hazaribagh 256 184 3 69

Palamu 92 12 0 80

Garhwa 145 48 0 97

Dhanbad 283 148 4 131

Simdega 365 354 1 10

Deoghar 65 19 1 45

Kodarma 276 173 2 101

Giridih 121 86 3 32

Jamtara 31 28 0 3

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 Total
Distric Recovere Death Activ
case
t d s e
s

Ramgarh 171 125 0 46

Dumka 18 9 0 9

East
666 298 3 365
Singhbhum

Lohardaga 100 58 0 42

Godda 21 12 1 8

Sahibganj 41 9 2 30

Pakur 73 31 0 42

Chatra 118 52 0 66

Latehar 83 55 0 28

Gumla 130 96 1 33

Khunti 34 28 1 5

Total (all
3490 2031 31 1428
districts)

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22
23
24
What the Jharkhand Govt Is Doing
– and Can Do – to Mitigate
Coronavirus Impact
New Delhi: To deal with the three-week nationwide lockdown, the rights
group Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha (JJM) has demanded that the state
government, in addition to health services, should also ensure adequate
income and food security to the people of the state.

“In a state with endemic hunger and undernutrition, ensuring food and other
essentials for the poor should be a top priority,” read a statement released by
the Mahasabha on Tuesday. According to the JJM, the Jharkhand government

25
has been proactively working over the past few days to keep a check on the
pandemic. However, the response, both in terms of health and welfare
initiatives, leaves a lot to be desired.

The JJM claimed that recently, many migrant workers were left stranded
without adequate government support at railway stations and bus stands. The
group also said that in the last two days, the government had made some
useful announcements like setting up community kitchens or distribution of
public distribution system grains in advance, but they are yet to see
implementation.

The JJM has therefore demanded that the Central and state governments need
to take a cue from measures adopted by Kerala and many other countries to
expand extensive healthcare and social welfare services to the people. In this
regard, the JJM has listed out 15 demands under the head of ‘social security,
public health services and awareness’.

Meanwhile, the state government has set up a control room, along with the
Toll Free No. 181, to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.

Moreover, state chief minister Hemant Soren has been requesting chief
ministers of the other states to help ensure food and necessary support is
provided to the residents of Jharkhand stuck in their states.

As per media reports, after the government intervened, 50 labourers from

Jharkhand stuck in Chhattisgarh have safely reached their homes in Garhwa
late on Monday night. So far, not a single case of coronavirus has been
reported in Jharkhand.

26
According to a report in the Times of India, on Monday evening Soren held a
meeting with the deputy commissioners of all districts and took stock of
preparations to combat a probable COVID-19 outbreak in the state. As per the
report, the chief minister asked the authorities to strictly enforce the lockdown
and directed that hospitals at every district keep ready a 200-bed isolation
ward.

Soren also asked officials to issue passes to personnel engaged in providing

essential services and keep a watch on social media platforms. “Identify the
poor, daily wagers and destitute and arrange food for them,” Soren told
officials, as per the report.

Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha has

made the following demands to deal
with Covid 19 and the lockdown .

Social security
1. PDS coverage should be made universal in rural areas and urban slums and
include all excluded and working-class families. In addition, food-grain
entitlement should at least be doubled and OTP-based distribution system
currently implemented in PDS should be replaced with “offline” method of
distribution for everyone. Also provide pulses, soap and edible oil at
subsidised rates (free, at least to the poorest). Provide all the commodities in
advance for three months. At this time of emergency, strict action should be
taken against hoarders, corrupt dealers.

27
2. Increase coverage of social security pensions to include all excluded
elderly, single women and disabled, at least double the pension amount and
provide two months pension in cash in advance.

3. All families with migrant workers, manual workers, urban homeless, slum
dwellers, transgenders and small vendors should be provided an income
support to cover for the income loss in this period. Adequate provisions
should be made for stranded migrant workers to return to their native places.
Alternatively, shelter homes can be arranged for such people.

4. Community kitchens to be set up at urban, semi-urban and block-level

public centres to provide free cooked food / dry rations to anyone in need of
food. Free meals to be made available to all patients and functionaries of all
health centres.

5. Provide cooked food/dry rations comprising six eggs per week to children
(in school and Anganwadis), pregnant and lactating mothers.

6. Immediately provide paid leave/unemployment allowance to all NREGA

workers and registered workers, and clear all pending payments.

Public health services

1. State government should immediately share the data pertaining to number
of samples tested, number of COVID-19 infected persons, number of
quarantined persons, number of testing kits available in the state, status of
personal protective equipment (PPE) for doctors and health workers, without
revealing the identity of COVID suspected or confirmed person.

2. Testing facilities should be increased and in order to rule out hidden cases,
a sampling exercise (like South Korea and China) of thousand samples from
each district should be done within a week.

3. Public hospital and health centres (including primary health centres) must
be immediately strengthened with increased capacity to meet the needs of a
sudden surge in patients. All block and panchayat offices should be provided
with check-up facilities and adequate equipment must be provided for testing.
Additional insurance cover should be provided to each health employee
(including those on contract service) to boost their confidence and morale.

28
4. People should be encouraged to consume local food and forest produce,
traditionally consumed amongst Adivasis and forest dwellers for enhancing
immunity.

Awareness
1. Widely disseminate all information related to COVID-19, especially in
rural areas, such as – testing and functional health centres, welfare policies,
symptoms of COVID-19 and preventive measures and so on.

2. It is critical during a crisis that the government is aware of all the issues and
shortcomings. Encourage citizens to regularly share ground reality of issues
faced by people and implementation of government measures through media
and social media, reporting to the block and panchayat level office and so on.
Mahasabha will keep appraising the government regularly of the issues faced
by people so that prompt action can be taken.

3. A 24×7 active helplines to address grievances and disseminate information

regarding COVID-19, health and income needs, harassment by ration dealers
or other service providers, etc.

29
4. The state government should also ensure that no-one is harassed by the
police in search of COVID-19 suspects or during lockdown. Policing by
people should also be discouraged.

CHALLENGES FACED BY TEACHERS AND

STUDENTS DURING COVID-19 LOCKDOWN IN
JHARKHAND

COVID-19 a pandemic health crisis. And as many countries have decided

to close schools, colleges and universities. This short-term but severe
disruption is felt by many people around the world: online teaching has
turned up as a massive shock for both teacher’s productivity and also
student’s social life and learning.
Teaching and Student assessments have moved online, with a lot of trial
and error and uncertainty for everyone. Many assessments have simply
been cancelled. Importantly, these interruptions will not just be a short-term
issue, but can also have many long-term consequences.  
30
 In such uncertain times, it is normal for people to experience stress and
anxiety, teachers included. Teachers need socio-emotional support to face
the pressure being put to deliver learning in a time of crisis as well as
support their students’ emotional needs.
To maintain continuity in the teaching-learning process study material is
updated on a daily basis on the google class room or respective websites
by the respective teachers of all departments. Teachers are taking classes
and also solving queries through Skype, zoom app session and other
online apps. We as teachers are trying our best by using three-four
different apps.
Daily and weekly online assignments and online tests are planned so that
students don’t lose their interest and seriousness towards the subject.
Challenges we are facing:

 One of the biggest challenges we teachers are facing is how to keep

students on board and also difficult to avoid their distractions from other
social networking sites during the learning period.
 Turning teaching materials into digital format at short notice has been
a challenge as few teachers have strong digital and ICT skills.
 Both teachers and students are facing internet connectivity issues .
 Students are from different social background and not every student
has access to a laptop or an internet connection. It is not possible for such
students to attend the online classes.

31
 Effects of COVID-19 on business and
research

1.  Introduction
There has been a long history of fear of pandemic outbreaks. The discussion
has not focused on whether there will be an outbreak, but when new outbreaks
will happen (Stöhr & Esveld, 2004). The events leading to influenza
pandemics are recurring biological phenomena and cannot realistically be
prevented. Pandemics seem to occur at 10–50-year intervals as a result of the
emergence of new virus subtypes from virus re-assortment (Potter, 2001). As
the global population increases and we need to live closer to animals, it is
likely that the transfer of new viruses to the human population will occur even
more frequently. All our society can do is take preventive measures so that we
32
are able to act quickly once we suspect an outbreak. We should also make an
effort to learn from the consequences of pandemic outbreaks to prepare our
societies for if—and, more likely, when—this happens again.
As we are in the middle of a pandemic outbreak, it is very difficult to estimate
its long-term effects. Although society has been hit by several pandemics in
the past, it is difficult to estimate the long-term economic, behavioral, or
societal consequences as these aspects have not been studied to a great extent
in the past. The limited studies that do exist indicate that the major historical
pandemics of the last millennium have typically been associated with
subsequent low returns on assets (Jorda, Singh, & Taylor, 2020). For a period
after a pandemic, we tend to become less interested in investing and more
interested in saving our capital, resulting in reduced economic growth. Given
the current situation, in which saving capital means negative returns, it is not
at all certain that we will be as conservative as we have been in the past.
Behavioral changes related to pandemic outbreaks seem to be connected with
personal protection (Funk, Gilad, Watkins, & Jansen, 2009), such as the use
of face masks, rather than general behavior changes. Our lives, as humans in a
modern society, seem to be more centered around convenience than around
worrying about what might happen in the future.

2.  Interesting research themes

As research indicates that pandemics are reoccurring events, it is very likely that we will see
another outbreak in our lifetime. It is apparent to anyone that the current pandemic has had
enormous—but hopefully short-term—effects on all our lives. Countries have closed their
borders, limited the movement of their citizens, and even confined citizens in quarantine within
their homes for weeks. This is a rather unique occurrence, as we are used to freedom of
movement, but in the midst of the pandemic outbreak, people have been fined just for being
outside. Although our societies seem to be very accepting of these limitations and condemn
people that do not follow the rules, but we need to ask ourselves how this will affect the views of
our society (e.g., views regarding freedom, healthcare, government intervention). We should also
be aware that infrastructure and routines to monitor citizens in order to limit the spread of the
virus have been rolled out, and so we should ask ourselves how accepting we will be of
monitoring in the future. We must realize that once these systems are in place, it is highly
unlikely that they will be rolled back. Furthermore, in some countries, the ruling politicians have
taken advantage of this situation and increased their control over the state, suppressing opposing
opinions and thus jeopardizing democratic systems. Some of the worst examples are

33
Turkmenistan, which has banned the use of the word “corona,” and Hungary, which is letting
Viktor Orbán rule by decree indefinitely.

As previously mentioned, people have been confined to their homes. There has also been a
constant stream of news on this invisible external threat from which we cannot protect ourselves.
We have been occupied trying to figure out how best to protect ourselves and our loved ones. On
top of that, many feel pressure due to losing their jobs or due to working in close proximity to
potentially infected people, as society depends on them fulfilling their duty. The consequences of
the pandemic outbreak have hit various sectors of society in different ways. People that are
working in sectors connected to healthcare must endure endless tasks and very long working
days. Additionally, people are losing their jobs at rates we have not seen since the Great
Depression of the 1930s. The sectors that have seen the largest increases in unemployment are
those that are hedonic in nature and require the physical presence of the customer (e.g.,
hospitality, tourism, and entertainment), as demand for these services has ceased to exist. The
employees in these sectors tend to be younger and female. Past experience also indicates that
once someone is outside the job market, it is very difficult to get back in as they will face more
competition that may be more competent.

All countries that can are trying to stimulate their economies to keep as much as possible of their
necessary infrastructure intact and to keep citizens productive or ready to become productive
once the pandemic has been overcome. In order to keep society from deteriorating, people not
only need jobs or a way to support themselves but also need access to what they view as
necessary products and services. If this infrastructure does not exist, people start to behave in
what is considered uncivil behavior (e.g., hording or looting). Countries around the globe have
adopted very different approaches to handle the current stress on the job markets and
infrastructure. Some countries have chosen to support businesses in order to help them keep the
workforce intact, but others with less financial strength cannot do the same.

3.  Consumer behavior during COVID-

19
Around the globe, societies are in lockdown, and citizens are asked to respect
social distance and stay at home. As we are social beings, isolation may be harmful
for us (Cacioppo & Hawkley, 2009). Feelings of loneliness have, among other
things, been connected to poorer cognitive performance, negativity, depression,
and sensitivity to social threats. There are indications that this is happening during
the current pandemic, as there has been an increase in domestic violence, quarrels
among neighbors, and an increase in the sales of firearms (Campbell, 2020).
However, we have also seen an increase in other, more positive types of behavior
caused by social distancing that have not been researched. People have started to
nest, develop new skills, and take better care of where they live. For instance, they
may learn how to bake, try to get fit, do a puzzle, or read more. There has also

34
been an increase in purchases of cleaning products, and more trash is being
recycled. At the same time, we are eating more junk food and cleaning ourselves
less. People are also stockpiling essentials, panic buying, and escaping to rural
areas. This is an indication that what is happening to us and our behaviors is
complex, and it would be interesting to study this phenomenon further.
Another consequence of the lockdowns is the extreme increase in the usage of
Internet and social media. Previous research has indicated that humans who feel
lonely tend to use social media more and, in some cases, even prefer social media
over physical interaction (Nowland, Necka, & Cacioppo, 2018). Social media also
may bring out the worst in us through trolling or sharing of fake news. This is, to
some degree, not as damaging as the “real life” is lived in the physical world and
the Internet is an “add on” with, in most cases, limited impact on the physical
world. By this, we are able to compartmentalize and distinguish what matters and
what does not matter. However, the current situation has made social media the
main mode of contacting or socializing with others. In many cases, the Internet is
at present also the main way to get essential supplies and receive essential services,
like seeing a doctor. The question, then, is what happens to us when the “real life”
is lived online and becomes a way to escape the physical world?
As humans, we rely to a large degree on our senses; we are built to use them in all
situations of life. Thus, we rely on them heavily when making decisions. However,
the current isolation is depriving us of our senses, as we are not exposed to as
many stimuli as normal situation. Thus, we are, in a sense, being deprived of
stimulation. We are also being told by authorities not to use our senses; we should
not touch anything, wear a mask, or get close to other humans. Thus, what happens
once our societies open up? How long will this fear of using our senses linger, and
will we be over-cautious for a while or may we try to compensate as we have to
some degree been deprived of using them? These are just some aspects of
consumer behavior; many more are covered by this special issue.

35
4.  Markets during COVID-19
The COVID-19 outbreak is likely to cause bankruptcy for many well-known brands in many
industries as consumers stay at home and economies are shut down (Tucker, 2020). In the US,
famous companies such as Sears, JCPenney, Neiman Marcus, Hertz, and J. Crew are under
enormous financial pressure. The travel industry is deeply affected; 80% of hotel rooms are
empty (Asmelash & Cooper, 2020), airlines cut their workforce by 90%, and tourism
destinations are likely to see no profits in 2020. Furthermore, expos, conferences, sporting
events, and other large gatherings as well as cultural establishments such as galleries and

36
museums have been abruptly called off. Consulting in general and personal services, like
hairdressers, gyms, and taxis, have also come to a standstill due to lockdowns. Finally, important
industries like the car, truck, and electronics industries have abruptly closed (although they
started to open up two months after their closure). There are an endless number of questions we
could ask ourselves in connection to this rather abrupt close-down. For instance, how do we take
care of employees in such situations? Why are companies not better prepared to handle such
situations (e.g., putting aside earnings or thinking of alternative sources of income)? How are the
companies and even countries using the current situation to enhance their competitive situation?
One of the countries that seem to be using the situation is China that is buying European based
infrastructure and technology (Rapoza, 2020).
While some businesses are struggling, some businesses are thriving. This is true for a number of
Internet-based businesses, such as those related to online entertainment, food delivery, online
shopping, online education, and solutions for remote work. People have also changed their
consumption patterns, increasing the demand for takeout, snacks, and alcohol as well as cleaning
products as we spend more time in our homes. Other industries that are doing well are those
related to healthcare and medication as well as herbs and vitamins. Typically, when studying
markets, it is assumed that they are static, a natural conclusion since they tend to change slowly.
However, if there is one thing the COVID-19 outbreak has shown us, it is that markets are
dynamic (Jaworski, Kohli, & Sahay, 2000) and can move rapidly. Furthermore, a market is not
just a firm; it is a network of actors (i.e., firms, customers, public organizations) acting in
accordance with a set of norms. These systems are sometimes referred to as dynamic ecosystems
that exist to generate value (Vargo & Lusch, 2011). The COVID-19 outbreak poses a unique
opportunity to study how markets are created and how they disappear within a very limited time
span. It would also be interesting to explore whether the disappearance of one solution for a
market may be replaced by another (e.g., combustion engines for electric or physical teaching for
online teaching).

5.  Predicted lasting effects

Based on past experiences, we have become more conservative and
protective after a pandemic outbreak. We save resources in order to be
prepared if the unthinkable happens again. Countries are starting to
stockpile things like food, equipment, and medicine or prepare to
produce them locally. It is also essential for larger global firms to have

37
reliable supply chains that do not break. Consequently, it is very likely
that this pandemic will make these firms rethink their supply chains and,
probably, move supply chains closer to where they are needed in order
to avoid stopping production in the future. Furthermore, authorities have
implied that other humans from other countries are dangerous as they
may carry the virus. A closed border implies that the threat is from the
outside. In addition, international flights are not likely to be an option
for many in the coming years. Together, these circumstances mean that
countries may become more nationalistic and less globalized. This may
be a dangerous development, as long-term protection from the
consequences of a pandemic outbreak is likely to require global effort
and sharing of resources. Such cooperation is also key to tackle other
global challenges that we may face in the future.

6.  This special issue

In this special issue, we have invited scholars from different areas of business
and management to write brief papers on various aspects of the effects of the
COVID-19 pandemic. In total, there are 10 articles in the special issue, which
are summarized below.

38
The first contribution, by Jagdish Sheth, is titled “Impact of
COVID-19 on Consumer Behavior: Will the Old Habits Return or Die?” It
explores how the current pandemic has affected several aspects of consumers’
lives, ranging from personal mobility to retail shopping, attendance at major
life events like marriage ceremonies, having children, and relocation. The
author investigates four contexts of construed consumer behavior, namely
social context, technology, coworking spaces, and natural disasters.
Additionally, the author foresees eight immediate effects of the pandemic on
consumer behavior and consumption. Hoarding—the mad scramble observed
at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak—applies not only to consumers but also
to unauthorized middlemen who buy products in excess to sell at increased
prices.

Consumers learn to adapt quickly and take an improvised approach to

overcome constraints that have been imposed by governments. Pent-up
demand may lead to a significant rebound in sales of durable products, like
automobiles, houses, and large appliances, and some of the realities of
COVID-19 will put consumers in a buying mood soon.

Embracement of digital technology, either through online services or

information-sharing platforms like Zoom, has kept people connected around
the world. Digital savviness will become a necessity, rather than an alternative,
for schools, businesses, and healthcare providers. With the onset of lockdowns
in many countries, online shopping, including grocery shopping, has become
more prevalent.

The desire to do everything in-home has impacted consumers’ impulse buying

habits. Slowly but surely, work–life boundaries will be blurred when both
tasks are carried out from home. There should be efforts to compartmentalize
the two tasks to make this a more efficient way of life.

Reunions with friends and family are now restricted to digital interactions,
especially for people who work and live away from their families. We can
expect a dramatic change in consumers’ behavior because of sophisticated
technology. In addition, consumers may discover new talents as they spend
less time on the road and more at home. They may experiment with cooking,
learn new skills, and, soon, become producers with commercial possibilities.
In the end, most consumer’s habits will return to normal, while some habits
may die due to adaptation to the new norm.

The second contribution, “Interventions as Experiments:

Connecting the Dots in Forecasting and Overcoming Pandemics, Global

39
Warming, Corruption, Civil Rights Violations, Misogyny, Income Inequality,
and Guns,” written by Arch G. Woodside, discusses whether there is an
association between public health interventions, national and state/provincial
governments interventions, and improved control of the COVID-19 outbreak
in certain countries. The paper suggests “ultimate broadening of the concept
of marketing” in order to design and implement interventions in public laws
and policy, national and local regulations, and the everyday lives of
individuals. It also lays out effective mitigating strategies by examining
designs, implementations, and outcomes of COVID-19 interventions by
examining deaths as a natural experiment.

While COVID-19 eradication intervention tests are being run for promising
vaccines, these are considered true experiments, and analyzing the data from
these interventions may involve examination of the success of each vaccine for
different demographic subgroups in treatment and placebo groups in
randomized control trials. Comparing the designs and impact of the current
COVID-19 mitigation interventions across nations and states within the U.S.
provides useful information for improving these interventions, even though
they are not “true experiments.”

The third contribution, “Employee Adjustment and Well-Being in the

Era of COVID-19: Implications for Human Resource Management” is written
by Joel B. Carnevale and Isabella Hatak. They claim that COVID-19 is
becoming the accelerator for one of the most drastic workplace
transformations in recent years. How we work, socialize, shop, learn,
communicate, and, of course, where we work will be changed forever. Person–
environment (P-E) fit theories highlight that employee–environment value
congruence is important because values influence outcomes through
motivation. However, given the current environment, in which the fulfillment
of needs and desires like greater satisfaction, higher engagement, and overall
well-being is drastically altered, there is an increased likelihood of misfits
working in organizations.

In response to this, organizations need to use virtual forms of recruitment,

training, and socialization in lieu of face-to-face interactions. Increasing job
autonomy will alleviate the family-related challenges that may arise within
remote work environments by providing employees with the right resources to
manage conflicting work and family demands. Human resource leaders within
the organization must enhance relationship-oriented human resources
systems in order to combat the risk of unforeseen and prolonged isolation
among single, independent employees and to better prepare them for
situations like the current crisis. The field of entrepreneurship can offer

40
insights that can be adapted by organizations coping with the pandemic.
Entrepreneurs’ struggles are largely caused by the lack of work-related social
support in comparison to salaried employees. Nevertheless, some
entrepreneurs are known to overcome these limitations by leveraging
alternative, domain-specific sources of social support, such as positive
feedback from customers, which ultimately enhances their well-being.
Recycling such approaches to identify overlooked or untapped sources of
social support is likely to be beneficial for employees given the current work
environment dynamic.

The fourth contribution, written by Hongwei He and Lloyd C.

Harris, is titled “The Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Corporate Social
Responsibility and Marketing Philosophy.” The worldwide demand for hand
sanitizers, gloves, and other hygiene products has risen because of the COVID-
19 pandemic. And, in some countries, there has been a surge in complaints
about profiteering and opportunism. As doctors combat the virus, prosecutors
are pursuing the opportunistic profiteers who prey on the fearful. Many large
corporations have a social purpose and set of values that indicate how much
they appreciate their customers, employees, and stakeholders. This is the time
for these corporations to make good on that commitment. Some organizations
strive to set great examples. For example, Jack Ma, the co-founder of Alibaba,
donated coronavirus test kits and other medical supplies to many countries
around the world through the Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation.
Large corporations have often written off the costs of product failures,
restructuring, or acquisitions.

On the bright side, the COVID-19 pandemic offers great opportunities for
companies to actively engage with their corporate social responsibility (CSR)
strategies and agenda. The post-COVID-19 marketplace is going to be
irrecoverably different. Organizations will need to re-evaluate their visions,
missions, and objectives to account for changes to their customers and
competitors, amongst other shifts. A key facet of this is the exponential
increase in digital communications and change.

The sixth paper in the special issue, “Managing

Uncertainty during a Global Pandemic: An International Business
Perspective,” was written by Piyush Sharma, T. Y. Leung, Russel P. J.
Kingshott, Nebojsa S. Davcik, and Silvio Cardinali. Pandemics like that caused
by COVID-19 are not just passing tragedies of sickness and death. The
ubiquity of such a threat, and the uncertainty and fear that accompany it, lead
to new consumer trends and norms. People become both more suspicious and
41
less susceptible. The crisis also shines a light on the importance of
international business research, which has been overlooked in the years
leading up to this crisis. Social and informational uncertainty are likely to have
economic repercussions.

As pointed out by the author, successful outcomes of social distancing and

other restrictions are highly dependent upon societal acceptance and following
through with restrictions. Social uncertainty and unrest among consumers due
to being under lockdown for months could lead to a huge stifled demand for
the products they missed. In this context, Samsung, a South Korean giant in
consumer electronics and home appliances, may be a great case study during
the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Samsung established a huge manufacturing
network over the years, with factories in multiple locations. This was done due
to foresight of the risk of single sourcing, the need to fulfill large production
demand, and the desire to reduce its dependence on China. This strategy has
helped Samsung shift its production from one location to another during the
ongoing COVID-19 crisis, thereby facing just a slowdown and not a complete
shutdown of production. Similarly, to compensate for the closure of retail
stores, Samsung has leveraged its contracts with mobile phone retailers and
Benow (a payment and EMI technology firm) to create an e-commerce
platform so that its retail business can continue to sell and deliver products
directly to customers.

The seventh contribution, “Competing During a Pandemic?

Retailers Ups and Downs During the COVID-19 Outbreak,” was written by
Eleonora Pantano, Gabriele Pizzi, Daniele Scarpi, and Charles Dennis. The
authors note that retailers who were not quick to adapt and factor COVID-19
into their operations are currently facing an existential crisis. The authors also
highlight that retailers can minimize current and future business impacts by
addressing four major emergencies.

First, retailers can identify and execute controllable activities. They must
identify, optimize, and re-access existing technologies and business models.
Specifically, they must understand how their stakeholders operate and
interact to reduce response time and optimize communication channels.
Second, all retailers, but especially grocery stores, are revisiting their business
continuity plans to reassure customers that their needs will be met and
manage the inevitable supply chain constraints and highs and lows caused by
volatile demand. These retailers are prioritizing critical business activities and
creating contingency plans for disruption. Third, retailers need to have an
understanding of their financial needs as well as the essential role they play in
42
their communities. For some regular customers, an open and well-stocked
supermarket will reassure them that they are being cared for. Fourth,
messages that retailers spread online during emergencies need to include
information about products’ availability on the shelves and at digital outlets;
control panic buying by restricting the quantity that customers can purchase;
devise and implement protection plans for consumers and employees;
contribute to overall public health; and use surveillance measures to limit the
spread of the virus. To these ends, retailers need to improve their customer
relationship management systems and promote safe interactions with
customers (e.g., through online chats with employees) to provide real-time
customer assistance.

Contribution number ten, “Consumer Reacting, Coping and

Adapting Behaviors in the COVID-19 Pandemic,” is written by Colleen P. Kirk
and Laura S. Rifkin. In it, the authors explore numerous consumer insights
during a major pandemic outbreak. Mainly, they e consumer behaviors across
three phases: reacting (e.g., hoarding and rejecting), coping (e.g., maintaining
social connectedness, do-it-yourself behaviors, and changing views of brands),
and longer-term adapting (e.g., potentially transformative changes in
consumption and individual and social identity). The authors also identify a
number of negative aspects of the pandemic that will likely impact consumer
behavior. As they state, given the mandatory close quarters people must keep
due to stay-at-home requirements, domestic abuse may be on the rise. In
addition, throughout history, pandemics provide an excuse for increased racial
and anti-immigrant biases.

43
44
Covid-19 cases in non-migrants on
rise in Jharkhand
Experts are worried that this trend in Ranchi could be indicative of community transmission of
the disease.

The spread of Covid-19 pandemic continues unabated in Jharkhand, which

after two spells of spike, one related to Tablighi Jamaat and the other to
migrants’ inflow, is now witnessing a steep rise in positive cases among the
non-migrant population.

While 70 cases were detected in non-migrants in May, as many as 205 cases

have been reported from the section in the first 22 days of June. In
comparison to the last month, cases in this section have registered a growth
of 192% till June 22.

Experts, however, say the rise of cases in the non-migrant section is quite
worrisome as it is indicative of community transmission of the disease.

Director of the state’s premier medical college and hospital, Rajendra

Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Dr DK Singh said, “In Unlock-1,
interstate movement of people has been allowed. There is also no restriction
in movement within the city, town and other areas. Not only migrants are
returning to the state but also the people from other sections.”

In the case of migrants, a majority of them were put in institutional

quarantine and therefore, they were segregated. But, in other cases, there

45
were no such segregation, so cases from this section are bound to rise, he
added.

Singh said, “We are noticing that a majority of ill patients coming to the
hospital are testing Covid-19 positive. We need to increase the testing,
especially through random sampling, to find out if there is any community
spread.”

However, a recent survey of state’s three districts by the Indian Council of

Medical Research (ICMR) didn’t indicate any possibility of community
transmission.

However, the government has urged the council to conduct the survey across
the state.

According to the state health department, the state had 110 positive cases by
the end of April, when the return of migrants had not started.

These cases were primarily linked to the Tablighi Jammat event in New
Delhi.

From May 1 onwards, migrant workers, stranded in different states, started

returning home through special flights, trains, buses and other modes of
transportation.

Till June 12, over 5.12 lakh migrant workers had arrived from different states
in the state.

Those, who had returned from red zone cities like Mumbai, Surat, Delhi and
others, were put in institutional quarantine.
46
The state health machinery then shifted its focus to these quarantine centres
from where positive cases started coming in hoards.

In the month of May alone, as many as 500 confirmed cases were unearthed,
including 430 cases found in migrants.

Of the total cases found in May, only 14% cases (70) were reported from the
non-migrant section.

A steep surge in the number of Covid-19 cases has been noticed in the
current month as total positive cases climbed to 2,140 on June 22 from 610

on May 31.

Of the 1,530 cases found in the first 22 days of June, 1,325 were detected
among migrants and remaining 205 in non-migrant section, which accounts
for over 13% of the total cases found in this month so far.

47
 The Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-
19) on Consumer Behavior

As concern regarding Coronavirus grows, impact on consumer behavior begins to slow

or stabilize in many regards. With the majority of the country now under stay-at-home
orders— set to continue through the month of April— consumers are settling into a
“temporary normal” that includes regular trips / online orders to replenish necessities
and little else. 

Although most non-essential businesses have closed their doors, consumers are still
holding tight to some familiar behaviors, including eating out— though restaurant traffic
is down significantly, the majority of consumers are still making occasional take-out or
delivery orders to supplement their in-home eating behavior. 

9 in 10 consumers have changed their shopping

behavior as a result of Coronavirus
.This week, 89% of consumers said their shopping behavior had been impacted by
Coronavirus, only marginally higher than last week’s 88%. We expect this number to
stay relatively consistent until stay-at-home orders are lifted. Impact among Gen Z’ers
declined slightly versus last week, but all other generations showed higher levels of
impact, older consumers most significantly

48
Shoppers settle into new normal as product shortages
and stock-up behaviors decline
The most frequently cited impact on shopping behavior continues to be product shortages, but
the number of consumers reporting this impact declined for the first time this week. For the
second week in a row, we also saw a decline in stock-up behaviors. Additionally, over half of
consumers said they are delaying purchases of non-essential goods or services, and more than a
third said stores they would otherwise go to are closed. All of these behaviors are indicative of
the new — albeit temporary— normal in which we see consumers stepping back from non-
essential activities and purchases.

49
3 in 4 consumers visited a restaurant or ordered
delivery/takeaway last week
Although 61% of consumers say they are eating/drinking out less than before, the majority still
made at least one purchase of a meal or snack outside of the home last week, and many plan to
do the same next week. When asked about their likelihood of ordering from a restaurant or
delivery service next week, 38.3% said they probably or definitely would. 24% mentioned they
would do so for convenience or because they didn’t want to cook, and 13% mentioned
supporting local or small businesses.

50
1 in 3 individuals are “very concerned” about
Coronavirus
Nearly all individuals surveyed indicated a level of concern regarding Coronavirus, with
90% rating themselves as at least “somewhat concerned (5/10).” The balance from
week-to-week continues to shift higher; those who rated themselves as “very concerned
(10/10)” jumped to 34% this week from 26% last week and 15% the week before. 

51
Online delivery and click-and-collect
services continue to attract new users
13% of those who placed an online ship-to-home order in the past month indicated it was their
first time ever or first time in the past six months doing so. About one-third of click-and-collect
users were new or ‘new lately.’ Retailers should continue to prioritize and invest in their online
and click-and-collect offerings, given their evident appeal in this time of social distancing.

52
1 in 3 individuals are “very concerned”
about Coronavirus
Nearly all individuals surveyed indicated a level of concern regarding Coronavirus, with
90% rating themselves as at least “somewhat concerned (5/10).” The balance from
week-to-week continues to shift higher; those who rated themselves as “very concerned
(10/10)” jumped to 34% this week from 26% last week and 15% the week before. 

53
While overall concern grows, specific
concerns center around physical and
economic health
The top concerns this week were impact on the economy, inability to see friends and family, and
becoming infected— self/member of household first, followed by someone outside of the
household. Though these were the top concerns overall, when looking specifically at what
individuals cited as their “primary” concern, becoming infected, economic impact, and impact on
job security were the most prevalent. 

Consumption or purchase-related concerns fell towards the middle of the list; inability to
purchase basic necessities was cited by 52% of individuals, cancelling upcoming travel 42%, and
inability to purchase other non-essential goods and services 37%. For most, these concerns were
not of primary importance, as their main focuses were on both physical and economic well
being.

54
 Conclusion
The coronavirus disease continues to spread across the world following a trajectory that is
difficult to predict. The health, humanitarian and socio-economic policies adopted by countries
will determine the speed and strength of the recovery.
The coronavirus disease  continues to spread across the world following a trajectory that is
difficult to predict. The health, humanitarian and socio-economic policies adopted by
countries will determine the speed and strength of the recovery. The ILO’s four pillar policy
framework presented in this brief provides guidance not only for countries as they progress
through the various phases of the crisis, but also for the international community as a
whole. There must be a global human-centred response which is grounded in solidarity.

International Labour Standards  contain guidance for ensuring decent work that is

applicable even in the unparalleled context of the COVID 19 crisis. In particular,
the Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience Recommendation, 2017 (No.
205)  emphasizes that crisis responses need to “ensure respect for all human rights and the
rule of law, including respect for fundamental principles and rights at work and for
international labour standards”. The standards dealing with safety and health at work, social
security, employment, non discrimination, working arrangements and the protection of
specific categories of workers provide guidance on the design of rapid responses that can
facilitate a stronger recovery from the crisis.

A coordinated global effort is required to support countries that currently do not have
sufficient fiscal space to finance social policy, in particular universal social protection
systems. Debt sustainability should be prioritized in this endeavour.

Without long-term structural changes, the deep-rooted inequalities exposed by the crisis will
merely intensify. As well as tackling the immediate effects of the crisis, the international
community now has a unique opportunity to adopt policies aimed at achieving social justice
and a human centred future of work.

55