The Social Impact of COVID-19 That Will Affect Economies

The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic will likely last for many years. Although governments around the world have become more adept at managing the spread of the virus and are getting their citizens vaccinated, the pandemic will directly impact society and economic activities for years to come.

In order to limit the spread of the virus and protect citizens, most governments have decided to close all schools since the beginning of 2020. Sadly, this has resulted in many children having their education stalled, which will eventually affect the quality and quantity of skilled labor, especially as economies digitize. The shift towards automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and tech-based work environments will require new skills, but if the education system continues to stall, industries will not be able to gain the skills they need.

The massive change from having a scheduled learning system and socializing with friends to being isolated at home has significantly impacted child development as well. Furthermore, the shift towards virtual classes has exacerbated the gap between the rich and the poor. Not every family has access to the necessary equipment and internet service that comes with remote learning. Education is essential for social mobility since it allows people to lift themselves out of poverty. Without the requisite education, future generations could be stuck in a poverty cycle.

Moreover, many teenagers don't have a safe environment to interact with without school. This has led many students to drugs, alcohol, and sex, which is particularly destructive to girls who often become mothers before they finish school. Not only will young girls be at risk from health complications, but they will have a hard time getting employed. This can be damaging for their children as well since educated mothers are important for child development.

The pandemic has also affected politics around the world, becoming the perfect excuse to enact government policies and laws that hindered freedoms. Undemocratic nations used the opportunity to restrict opposition parties' movements, freedom of speech, and NGO activities. 

In addition, before the pandemic, the discussion around immigration was primarily based on race or ethnicity. But now, it will take on new dimensions in the future. As jobs become scarce, some old arguments regarding prioritizing locals will come to the forefront. Furthermore, nations with low infection rates may restrict travelers from highly infectious areas.

The pandemic has impacted all aspects of society. Without social protection and investments, many, particularly the poor, will suffer from long-term consequences. The economies that survive the pandemic will be those that can contain the virus and provide social services to its people.

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