Addressing the Disproportionate Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Marginalized Groups

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Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching effects on various aspects of employment, with marginalized groups bearing the brunt of the impact. This article explores the disproportionate impact of the pandemic on women, people of color, and individuals with disabilities. It also highlights the exacerbation of wealth and well-being gaps and the unequal burden of unpaid care work. Additionally, it addresses the significant job losses experienced by domestic workers, primarily women.

Impact on Marginalized Groups

Marginalized groups, including women, people of color, and individuals with disabilities, have been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These groups have experienced higher rates of job loss compared to the general population. Hispanic or Latina women, in particular, have been significantly impacted, facing higher unemployment rates.

Disproportionate Impact in Service-Sector Industries

Service-sector industries, such as retail and restaurants, have been hit hard by pandemic-induced business closures. As a result, women and people of color, who make up a large portion of the workforce in these industries, have been disproportionately affected by job losses. The closure of businesses in these sectors has had a devastating impact on employment opportunities for these groups.

Greater Job Loss for People with Disabilities

People with disabilities have experienced even greater job loss compared to the general population. The pandemic has further exacerbated the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment. One in five individuals with disabilities have been dismissed from employment, compared to one in seven in the general population.

Exacerbation of Wealth and Well-being Gaps

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing wealth and well-being gaps. The economic impact of the pandemic has further widened the disparities between different socioeconomic groups. Marginalized groups, who already faced significant barriers to economic prosperity, have been hit the hardest.

Insufficient Employment Growth Rates

While there are expected employment rate increases in 2021, these growth rates will not be sufficient to bring women back to their pre-pandemic employment levels. Women faced significantly higher employment losses in 2020, and it will take more than the projected growth rates to fully recover. The pandemic has had a long-lasting impact on women's employment prospects.

Unequal Burden of Unpaid Care Work

The unequal burden of unpaid care work has long affected women's labor force outcomes. The pandemic has further highlighted this issue, as women continue to bear the majority of caregiving responsibilities. The increased demands of caregiving have hindered women's ability to fully participate in the labor force and have exacerbated existing gender inequalities.

Job Losses for Domestic Workers

The pandemic has resulted in the loss of jobs for a significant number of domestic workers. Globally, 72% of domestic workers have lost their jobs, with women making up 80% of this workforce. Domestic workers, who are predominantly women, have faced significant challenges in finding alternative employment opportunities during the pandemic.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted marginalized groups, exacerbating existing inequalities in employment and well-being. Addressing these disparities requires targeted efforts to support and uplift these groups, including providing access to job opportunities, addressing systemic barriers, and promoting inclusive policies. It is crucial to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups in order to build a more equitable and resilient society.

Publication source

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PDF source url: https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Pathways_to_Social_Justice_2021.pdf