COVID-19 Implications for migrant care workers

Abstract

The global pandemic COVID-19 has strained health care systems and social services and caused an overall negative economic and social impact throughout Europe. Migrants en route to or residing in Europe are especially disadvantaged, not only due to border closures, but also because many were already in precarious situations with limited access to social protection mechanisms or systems in the host country. Those migrants responsible for care work, who are largely women, are especially vulnerable, as these types of jobs during COVID-19 means even more exposure to the virus. This brief outlines the ways in which migrant care work is particularly precarious in COVID-19 conditions. It points to how now, more than ever, it is critical to address the crucial role migrant care workers play in European societies. Finally, it suggests measures to mitigate the risks and vulnerability they face, and how the proposed measures can be beneficial for the EU in terms of recovery from the crisis and rebuilding the affected economies.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Migrants
• Workers
• Gender