THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON YOUNG MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES IN BULGARIA

Abstract

The notion of crisis introduces two aspects. On the one hand it is a difficult or dangerous time. On the other hand, it covers a condition of instability or danger which implies and presupposes a quick solution and important decision to be made in order to overcome a critical situation. Тhe study is aimed at exploring to what extent vulnerable groups of the society such as young migrants and refugees residing in Bulgaria have manifested an ability to cope with various obstacles imposed by Covid-19 crisis. Methods of the study include interviews conducted with young migrants and refugees and continuous desk research. The migrants were placed in an extremely vulnerable position with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This was due to many factors, including little or no knowledge of the language of the host country, lack of experience in using services provided by institutions, insufficient access to social or health services. Another key risk reinforcing their vulnerability is that they more easily fall from the labor market in a situation of economic crisis as a consequence of a pandemic. However, gathered data from the interviews with migrants and refugees picture them as resilient in coping with crises. The research paper provides findings and analysis of the ability of young migrants to mitigate the negative consequences of the pandemic crisis. It is related to strong curiosity and desire to learn, work and contribute to the host society.