코로나19 팬데믹 시기에 방글라데시 빈곤층이 경험하고 있는 빈곤, 영양, 무력감 - 질적연구 -

Abstract

Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic heightened the risk of economic and nutritional instability, particularly among the poor population. We conducted in-depth interviews with 45 women with young children in Kaharole Upazila, Rangpur Division, in Bangladesh. Most respondents reported reduced income or job loss since the pandemic and could not afford to purchase staples and nutrient-rich foods. Young children and pregnant women were at risk of having inadequate diets. The households used stress coping mechanisms such as selling livestock, taking loans, and spending savings several times. The coping mechanisms again put the respondents into a vicious economic and severe mental stress cycle as they had no way to repay the loan. Respondents expressed helplessness and frustration as a result of the economic downturn. There was a lack of relief assistance from local governments or civil societies. Our findings showed poor Bangladesh women faced financial hardship, limited food choices, and provisional coping strategies. It is advised that disaster relief efforts be directed toward helping the affected population maintain their standard of living and building local community resilience.