Business Closures Research Articles

Quality Certification and Business Performance: The Portuguese Large Firms’ Case

Objective: Observe the existence of a relationship between quality certification, financial performance and bankruptcy prediction, as well as the supposed superiority of the quality certified Portuguese large companies. Theoretical Reference: In the continuous pursuit for quality, as well as its certification, the International Standard Organization (ISO), suggests, from a theoretical perspective, a possible relationship of the last one with the going concern, contributing to the companies’ economic and financial sustainability. Method: We selected Portuguese large companies (according to recommendation 2003/361/EC) with Economic Activity Codes (NACE) D and G, certified with ISO 9000 or 9001, totalling 91 companies, along with computed average company from each of these sectors. We used univariate and multivariate techniques (MDA), models of business failure prediction, considered in previous studies as the most effective for the Iberian economy (Peres and Antão, 2018; Peres and Antão, 2019), aiming to assess the companies’ performance, as well as the supposed superiority of those quality certified companies. Results and Discussion: In neither of the analysis, univariate and multivariate, was observed a superior performance of the certified companies compared to others, indicating that quality certification is not effectively related to the companies’ economic and financial performance optimization. Implications of the Research: Uncover the influence of quality certification on the economic-financial position of companies, allowing for deeper investigation into bankruptcy, sustainability and value creation. Originality/Value: The specificities of the sectors and business size, crises and the increasing of business closures make it vital to identify what will influence performance and sustainability, as no studies have been identified on this topic, focusing on Portuguese Large companies, certified via ISO 9000 or 9001.

The Essence of the Right to Property under Art 1 of Protocol 1 to the echr: An Inviolable Core or a Purely Symbolic Concept? Cases from Central and Eastern Europe revisited

Abstract It is inherent to the fundamental right to property that far from being absolute, the owners’ rights may be limited in the general interest. As exemplified recently by unprecedented closures of restaurants and other businesses due to the covid-19 pandemic, also large-scale and far-reaching limitations are broadly deemed justified. The outer boundary of these limitations appears to be the essence of the right, which may not be impinged upon. Yet, both this very term and its scope are fiercely contested. This article, thus, revisits the “essence” of a fundamental right in the context of the European Convention on Human Rights. Drawing on the example of the right to property under Art 1 of Protocol 1 (P1-1) to the echr, this contribution expounds the prevailing approaches to the essence of fundamental rights and highlights the discrepancies between the formally adopted absolute approach to the essence as a purportedly inviolable core and the relative understanding of this concept which sees it as part of the fair-balance test. As the ECtHR case law makes room for virtually any interference with P1-1 including expropriation without any compensation, it will be argued that an untouchable or pre-established essence is not a concept attributable to the right to property under the Convention. It is maintained, however, that the limited scope of the essence is consistent with the underlying principles of the Convention as well as the intrinsic social function of private property.

Leadership styles and job insecurity in Indonesian start-ups: The role of challenges and engagement

Even though Indonesia’s start-up scene is experiencing rapid growth, the industry is grappling with considerable hurdles, such as a high rate of business closures, strong dependence on employee efficiency, and heavy reliance on technology. This paper examines the correlation between leadership styles, job challenges, job engagement, and job insecurity in Indonesian start-ups, which face unique challenges affecting employee job security. Unlike most research on how job insecurity impacts job engagement, this study explores whether higher job engagement impacts job insecurity, providing practical insights for leaders. The study was structured using a quantitative approach known as structural equation modeling-partial least squares (SEM-PLS), which analyzed 198 responses from Indonesian start-up employees. This study found that leadership styles significantly affect job insecurity (β = 1.337, p-value < 0.05), however, leadership styles do not substantially affect job engagement (β = 0,435, p-value > 0.05). Another finding states that job challenges do not significantly affect job engagement (β = 0.491, p-value > 0.05) and job insecurity (β = –0.037, p-value > 0.05). Job engagement significantly influences job insecurity (β = –0.428, p-value < 0.05). This study specifically targets employees in Indonesian start-ups to uncover mechanisms and offer practical recommendations for enhancing job security and motivation. The findings underscore the significant impact of leadership style on job insecurity, emphasizing the importance of engaging and motivating employees through personalized leadership style approaches to enhance job stability and overall workforce effectiveness in Indonesian start-ups.

Prototype to mitigate risks for the closure of a company with the support of Information Technologies

The problems of business closures (SMEs) are constant in the world and in Ecuador due to the lack of application of appropriate management models that allow the conversion of strategies. The deductive method was used for exploratory research of the information related to the research topic. The objective is to design a prototype to mitigate risks and prevent threats to avoid the closure of this type of companies. The result was a conceptual model to minimize risks, a risk control prototype, a prototype flow chart, a simulation of processes with five scenarios, determination of the formula to detect the probability of closure as an SME and risk analysis and evaluation. It was concluded that the proposed prototype to detect threats and vulnerabilities provides an optimal security model for small and medium-sized companies; as a result of the simulations, a security percentage of 77.92% was established, which means that the greater the number of risks and threats, the greater the probability that a small and medium-sized company will close.

An Examination of Umar bin Khattab's Policy on Zakat as a Social Security Net in the Context of Post-Covid-19 Pandemic in Indonesia

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented economic crisis, causing millions of people to face job losses, business closures, and financial hardship. To prevent impacts on vulnerable populations, it is essential to have a strong social safety net in the face of these difficulties. The purpose of this study is to examine the potential of zakat, the obligation of Islam to redistribute wealth, as an innovative social safety net, based on the policies of Umar bin Khattab, the second Islamic Caliph. By exploring Umar's visionary approach to zakat distribution and its relevance in contemporary times, this study examines how zakat can be used as an effective mechanism to alleviate the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for those most affected. This research uses a qualitative research approach By integrating insights from contemporary case studies and stakeholder consultations, this research proposes a comprehensive framework for implementing a robust zakat distribution system that is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This emphasizes the importance of transparent governance, accountability mechanisms, and the involvement of Islamic financial institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community-based organizations in the zakat management process. Ultimately, this study offers an interesting case for reviving the spirit of Umar bin Khattab's zakat policy, showing how this ancient Islamic practice can serve as a powerful tool to promote financial inclusion, foster economic resilience, and support sustainable development in the face of modern crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic.

Unraveling gender differences in entrepreneurial exits: The role of human capital and family situation during an unprecedented crisis

This study applies a gender role perspective to delve into disparities in entrepreneurial exit decisions during unprecedented crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper examines how human capital and family dynamics—encompassing family income and size—interact with evolving social roles and responsibilities. Using multinomial estimation techniques and Global Entrepreneurship Monitor survey data from Chile, our findings reveal that women entrepreneurs display a higher likelihood of business exits compared to their male counterparts. Further analysis with moderating variables shows that the gender coefficient is not significant and unveils a non-linear pattern tied to educational backgrounds. Specifically, women with elementary education are prone to discontinuing businesses due to the COVID-19 crisis, with a similar—though weaker—tendency observed among women with tertiary education. Women with medium education levels do not significantly differ from men in terms of business closures due to COVID-19. Additionally, family size disproportionately affects women, amplifying the likelihood of business exits during the COVID-19 crisis compared to men. The paper offers actionable insights for researchers and policymakers, emphasizing the pressing need to augment women's entrepreneurial resilience in the face of unforeseen crises.

LAW, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND THE KARAOKE BUSINESS

Intellectual property law, particularly copyright law, is a significant challenge for karaoke businesses. The necessity of obtaining proper music licenses is well-understood, but the complexities and costs involved often lead to gaps in compliance. Local regulations, including zoning laws, noise ordinances, and alcohol licensing, further complicate the legal landscape for karaoke operators. Non-compliance with these laws can result in severe penalties, including fines, legal disputes, and potential business closures. Social media has emerged as an essential tool for marketing and customer engagement in the karaoke industry. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok enable businesses to reach a broader audience and create interactive experiences that enhance customer loyalty. However, the use of copyrighted music in social media posts poses significant legal risks. While social media offers opportunities for growth, businesses must navigate these platforms carefully to avoid copyright infringement and other legal challenges. Managing online reputations is critical in the age of social media, where negative reviews or viral posts can significantly impact a business's image. Proactive strategies for handling customer feedback and maintaining a positive online presence are essential for mitigating reputational risks. The regulatory environment for karaoke businesses is evolving, with stricter enforcement of copyright laws and changing social media policies. Businesses must stay informed and adapt to these changes to ensure continued compliance and operational success. Karaoke businesses should prioritize legal education and seek expert guidance to navigate the complexities of copyright law and other regulatory requirements effectively. Clear social media policies that address the use of copyrighted material and customer interactions are vital for minimizing legal risks and maximizing the benefits of digital marketing. Implementing robust reputation management strategies, including prompt responses to online reviews and engagement with customers, can help maintain a positive public image and reduce the impact of negative feedback. Businesses should monitor changes in copyright enforcement and social media regulations, adapting their practices accordingly. Forming partnerships with music rights organizations or utilizing technology solutions can streamline compliance efforts.

Wpływ sytuacji kryzysowej w gospodarce na przestępczość gospodarczą w Polsce na przykładzie pandemii COVID-19 w latach 2019–2022

The article examines economic crime in Poland from 2019 to 2022, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. It considers whether the pandemic influenced the rise in fraud, counterfeiting, and cybercrime during this period. The analysis of statistics shows a notable increase in such crimes, attributed to several factors. The pandemic destabilized the labour market, led to business closures, and intensified economic pressures, prompting companies to seek alternative means of staying competitive, which facilitated criminal activity. The study highlights the urgent need for effective preventive measures and enhanced cooperation between public and private sectors to protect businesses from cybercrime. It concludes with a call for strategies to secure the economy and ensure business stability in future crises.

In the Shadow of Crisis: Societal and Political Transformations of Covid-19

The Covid-19 pandemic has impacted our country in many ways, much like it has affected the rest of the world. This study focuses on examining the effects of the pandemic on individuals. It delves into the experiences of participants during the outbreak, the societal and political implications of implemented policies, and the policies aimed at curbing the spread of Covid-19. The study conducted through a survey involving 375 students from Ardahan University reveals the negative effects of the pandemic on individuals. Situations of distancing, avoidance, and maintaining social distance during the outbreak have triggered feelings of helplessness, fear, and anxiety among individuals. Additionally, policy measures such as social isolation have led to significant changes in individuals' lifestyles. Factors such as remote work, online education, temporary closure of businesses, and the inability to participate in social activities have had negative effects on individuals. The Covid-19 pandemic has created an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, undermining the trust among people, and profoundly affecting societal order. As the perceived threat of the pandemic diminishes, support for implemented policies has also decreased. This study contributes to our comprehensive understanding of the societal and political transformations brought about by Covid-19.

Fiscal Tools for Promoting Efficient Economic Growth

Contemporary crisis phenomena, including financial, structural, political, and social aspects, underscore the need for effective fiscal policy to ensure the resilience and development of the country. Additionally, there are currently complex challenges related to the war, such as infrastructure destruction, business shutdowns, and mass migration, which have significantly impacted the country’s economy and require additional financial resources for recovery. This situation necessitates the search for new sources of income and the optimisation of existing resources, highlighting the importance of effective tax regulation to overcome economic challenges during conflict. This scientific article aims to determine the role of fiscal policy in ensuring effective economic development, as well as the importance of tax instruments and their efficiency in promoting economic growth and optimising financial resources. In the research process, literary sources were analysed, and statistical data was scrutinised to evaluate the dynamics of state revenues and expenditures and the impact of tax receipts on the state budget. The study emphasises the importance of tax instruments for economic development and meeting the country’s financial needs. The efficient use of tax instruments facilitates the collection of sufficient revenues to fund social and economic needs. The study highlights the importance of employing the necessary tax instruments to ensure the country’s effective economic development. In martial law conditions, mobilising fiscal reserves and activating tax instruments become critical strategies for ensuring financial stability and supporting the economy. However, the successful implementation of these measures requires the improvement of the organisational structure and administration. A balanced approach to tax burden, a conducive environment for business, and the development of new revenue sources are critical in ensuring financial stability and supporting economic growth during conflict.

Analysis of the impact of coronavirus infection on human health: epidemiological data, vaccination strategies, psychological aspect, consequences (literature review)

The COVID-19 (COronaVIrus Disease 2019) pandemic has caused widespread morbidity, mortality, and socioeconomic crisis around the world. Since its first outbreak in 2019, COVID-19 has evolved continuously, leading to the emergence of several variants that have gained greater transmission efficiency, severity, and immune evasion properties. Vaccination has proven to be an important strategy to control the spread of the virus and mitigate its impact. The development of multiple COVID-19 vaccines within 1 year of the virus's emergence was unprecedented. The purpose of the article was to analyze and summarize the scientific literature on the impact of COVID-19 on global health, including epidemiological data, vaccination strategies, psychological impact of the pandemic, and human health outcomes. The analysis found that COVID-19 vaccination has been very effective in reducing morbidity, hospitalizations and intensive care unit admissions. However, ongoing surveillance, monitoring of options and adaptive vaccination strategies are crucial to maximize the benefits of vaccination and effectively control the spread of the virus. Globally, the dramatic and rapid spread of COVID-19 has triggered social changes that have led to an increased burden of mental health and fear-related behaviors. The physical and social distancing imposed in many parts of the world has had a significant impact on how the general population communicates and interacts with each other. Extreme avoidance of the lack of social contact has created a sense of "disconnection" that has been further exacerbated by the inability to meet friends and family at social gatherings and supportive places such as churches, restaurants, workplaces, and sports facilities. The closure of schools and many businesses, along with rising unemployment, further exacerbated feelings of isolation, financial hardship, anxiety, and depression. The article provides information on the mental impact of COVID-19 on patients, namely, the virus contributes to mental distress, anxiety, depression, suicide risk, post-traumatic stress disorder, cognitive impairment and sleep disorders. Keywords: COVID, spread, vaccines, anxiety, depression.

ПРОБЛЕМА ЗАЙНЯТОСТІ ТА БЕЗРОБІТТЯ НАСЕЛЕННЯ У ВОЄННИЙ ЧАС

The article examines the issues of employment and unemployment of the population in wartime. The essence of the concept of employment and unemployment has been defined in accordance with the current legislation. An analysis of the economically active population of Ukraine and Khmelnytskyi region was carried out according to the data of the State Statistics Service. The dynamics of labor force indicators by age categories in terms of division by gender in Ukraine as a whole and in the Khmelnytskyi region were studied. The results of the calculations showed slight differences in the indicators of Ukraine and Khmelnytskyi region in percentage terms. Negative trends in the labor market of Ukraine with a decrease in the indicators of the workforce and employed population and an increase in the number of persons classified as unemployed and persons not included in the labor force were noted. The indicators of the labor market of Ukraine during the period of the full-scale invasion are presented and analyzed based on the results of sociological research. Emphasis is placed on the implementation of measures to increase employment of the population in war and post-war times. Unemployment and employment of the population are an integral part of human life. In the conditions of the pre-war period, the issue of unemployment was the main problem of the labor market, therefore, a number of state support programs were created to overcome unemployment in Ukraine. During the war, the issue of unemployment only worsened. The results of the study of the dynamics of indicators of the economic activity of the population of Ukraine in general and Khmelnytskyi region, in particular, proved the similarity of the indicators of the economically active population of Ukraine and Khmelnytskyi region. According to the "labor force" indicator, there is a slight difference in the decrease in the number of the labor force in Ukraine and in the Khmelnytskyi region. According to the "employed population" category, there is an advantage of the reduction of this indicator in the Khmelnytskyi region over the indicator in Ukraine. According to the category of the unemployed population, there is a preponderance of the decrease in the number of unemployed in the Khmelnytskyi region over the indicators in Ukraine in the extreme periods of the study. Sociological surveys play an important role in labor market research. They help to find out the real state of economic activity of the country's population. The data of a complex sociological study reflect an increase in the number of the unemployed population by almost three times compared to the pre-war period. This increase was due to external and internal migrations of the population of Ukraine, closure of businesses and the inability of the population to work in a certain territory of Ukraine. However, business is starting to recover and the number of unemployed people is decreasing every month. In the western part of Ukraine, there is an increase in the equation of competition for a vacant position. A high level of unemployment is observed in the southern and eastern parts of Ukraine. In order to improve the situation on the labor market of Ukraine in the war and post-war periods, it is necessary to develop a strategy for motivating the employment of the population of Ukraine.

소상공인의 성공적인 경영활동을 위한 교육과정 개발 및 활용의 정책 방향성에 관한 연구

This study aims to systematically provide learning opportunities for small enterprises through the development of educational policies targeted at small enterprises. Additionally, it seeks to establish a policy framework that supports the business activities of small enterprises through the systematic operation of educational programs. Given the low entry barriers, many people may consider transitioning to small enterprises. However, frequent occurrences of business startups and closures are observed, especially when insufficient time is dedicated to preparation. Even with thorough consideration and market entry, only a few businesses grow into small businesses, necessitating preemptive planning for exit strategies alongside startup efforts. By providing systematic education, this study aims to deliver detailed knowledge about the current status to both small enterprise and those considering entering the small enterpris sector, thereby contributing to the success of their business activities. To this end, the study examines the characteristics of current small enterprise policies and the current status of educational policy implementation, with the goal of determining whether these policies are effectively applicable to both small enterprises and general adult learners. A basic framework for the curriculum was proposed by setting the educational goals and contents according to each period of start-up-growth-rehabilitation for small enterprises and presenting the contents by level of basic-in-depth-application. As a result, the study seeks to establish a foundation for the successful business activities of small enterprises.

Characterization of a Covid-fired urban bike delivery system: The Montreal experience

The Covid-19 pandemic led to a rapid change in consumers' demand for home deliveries and traditional delivery modes were unable to deliver consumers and shops due to the sudden increase in demand. This study investigates the results of a local cargo bike delivery initiative in Montreal, Canada, during the forced closure of non-essential businesses from March to May 2020. The objective of this study is to identify the variables which interacted with the performance of a cargo bike delivery initiative while considering the specific context of the Covid-19 pandemic. To assess such changing conditions, a multilevel linear regression analysis is carried out. This analysis allows to quantify the number of home deliveries while considering the impact of the number of active Covid-19 cases and sociodemographic predictors on the cargo bike initiative. The dataset covers 6,700 deliveries made by cargo bikes in the city of Montreal over 16 weeks. The results show that the presence of advertising and the characteristics of consumers' households, such as a smaller household size and a younger average age are amongst the strongest factors for the success of such initiative. The specific context of the Covid-19 pandemic allowed a better penetration of cargo bikes within the last-mile ecosystem.

The Economic Impact of Covid-19 pandemic on Labor Market and Stock Market

The pandemic has caused severe unrest and uncertainty in the labor market. Share prices have fallen sharply. However, the reasons behind it and the related policy effects still lack a unified explanation and summary. Therefore, the topic of this paper is the impact of the epidemic on the labor force and the stock market. The research method of this paper is as follows: firstly, the relevant data such as unemployment rate, hiring ratio and purchasing manager index are collected, and then the data are analyzed. The study found that the main reasons for the decline in labor demand may include business shutdowns, more cautious business investment and the psychological impact on workers. Fears of a potential recession, supply chain disruptions and uncertainty over the duration and severity of the outbreak have driven the rapid fall in share prices. The relevant policy recommendations further encourage local governments to use the surplus funds from unemployment insurance and other sources to support enterprises in maintaining employment stability. This paper will encourage the implementation of policies that delay or partially refund social security contributions. And strengthen the strategy of partially refunding unemployment insurance premiums, promoting local employment opportunities, and providing subsidies to ensure the overall stability of the employment situation. These policies are constantly evaluated and adjusted in light of changing economic conditions and employment trends to help maintain employment levels and support businesses during difficult times.

Developing good practices and organisational resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic: A retrospective qualitative case study in a higher education institution

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted authorities to enforce social restrictions and business closures, severely affecting the education sector and disrupting academic continuity. While existing studies have primarily focused on the evolution of learning environments, student and academic resilience, and educational policy responses, limited attention has been given to organisational resilience in higher education institutions.This paper addresses this gap by examining the impacts of the pandemic and organisational resilience components within a university of applied sciences. Using Chronicle Workshops and semi-structured interviews, this case study spans from the onset of the pandemic in March 2020 to June 2022, scrutinising the effects on various professions, including top and middle management, teachers, scientific, administrative, and technical staff.Key events included the initial lockdown and the subsequent shift to telework. Social tension during the implementation of COVID-19 certificates emerged as a noteworthy factor. The paper identifies best practices, including anticipative exchanges, investments in occupational health and safety, top-down crisis management, collegial decision-making, technology integration into work processes, creative pedagogical and assessment methods, leadership based on trust and autonomy, self-management, and a strong sense of solidarity. Recommendations for improvement encompass addressing siloed functioning, enhancing crisis communication, prioritising health and safety under normal circumstances, reflecting on technology’s limits in teaching, recognising commitment and skills, ensuring decision transparency, and providing post-crisis support.These findings underscore the significance of considering both social and technical aspects in organisational responses to crises like the pandemic. Strengthening managerial capacity to support staff is crucial for enhancing resilience against future threats.

The social evolution of COVID-19: pandemics as total social facts.

The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented global event in recent history. Beginning with an initial outbreak in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, the virus spread rapidly across the globe, causing millions of deaths and triggering an unprecedented health, economic, and social crisis. The initial response to the outbreak in many countries was the implementation of social distancing measures, including the closure of schools and businesses, the cancellation of mass events, and the banning of travel. These measures were aimed at reducing the virus' spread and preventing health systems from being overwhelmed by the numerous severe COVID-19 cases. However, these measures also had a devastating economic impact, especially on precarious workers and freelancers, as well as those who were unable to work from home. As the pandemic (also considered a syndemic or synergistic epidemic) dragged on, countries adopted more flexible approaches to dealing with the virus, adopting mitigation measures rather than social distancing measures. These included the use of masks, testing and contact tracing, and the opening of businesses and schools with the implementation of additional safety measures. This paper highlights the social consequences of the pandemic, ultimately arguing that it is a total social fact (from the French fait social total), based on Marcel Mauss' categorization, since it encompassed and impacted all facets of human life.

Resilience of Natural Disaster Victims Based on Social Capital Community Recovery Strategy for Flash Floods in Ladang Rimba

Flooding is a natural phenomenon caused in areas where many rivers flow. This research intends to describe, analyze and reveal the flash flood disaster in Ladang Rimba in 2023. In its development, this method uses environmental history by utilizing sources obtained, both written and oral, which are related to the topic of discussion. The results of this research show that after the 2023 Ladang Rimba flash flood disaster, it was a sad story for all the people living in the flood area. Severe damage due to flash floods in Gampong Ladang Rimba in Central Trumon District still leaves mud sediment with a thickness of up to 120 cm. still covering residential areas, residents' houses and various infrastructure. The impacts of flash floods in Ladang Rimba include: experiencing levels of damage to infrastructure, including housing, roads, bridges and utilities, loss of livelihoods, business closures, and impacts on local industry, social and psychological impacts on individuals and communities, including trauma, problems mental health, and community cohesion, the level of community involvement in the recovery process and empowerment of local residents. For this reason, a comprehensive review is needed that involves collaboration between various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-government organizations, community representatives and academic researchers.

COVID-19 Pandemic, Economic Livelihoods, and the Division of Labor in Rural Communities of Delta and Edo States in Nigeria

The COVID-19 pandemic affected economic, social, health, and political aspects of most global, national, and local populations, including urban and rural communities. Government measures like lockdowns resulted in the closure of schools and businesses, while social distancing preventing group gatherings impacted public and private spaces. Based on key informants’ interviews with 36 participants drawn equally from three senatorial districts of Edo and Delta states of Nigeria, we analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the type of work men and women do and division of household activities, such as cooking, child, and family care. The findings show that traditional gender role ideology (GRI) defines and shapes rural men’s and women’s work, with women more engaged in farming, rearing livestock, and trading while men are engaged in farming, rearing livestock, and carrying out skilled jobs like carpentry, plumbing, and blacksmithing. The lockdown of schools and workplaces resulted in women disproportionately bearing the burden of cooking and caring for children, the elderly, and the sick. A few rural men shared childcare, while women spent more time on housework and childcare activities than in the pre-pandemic period when children were in school for 6–7 h daily. During the pandemic, rural men and women spent more time with the children, such that rural women stayed at home or took children to the farms and marketplaces where possible. Older siblings and the elderly also provided support for women. In conclusion, work and family activities during COVID were, to an extent, difficult to manage as parents had to cope with increasing food insecurity, economic and transportation costs, and social deprivation fostered by social norms, values, and practices that perpetuate gender inequality and marginalization of women.

The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the Life Cycle of Tourist Destinations from Tour Operators and Hoteliers' Perspectives

Purpose: This study explores the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism sector and tourist destinations by expanding the Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) model, thus providing a more comprehensive understanding of the pandemic's influence on destination and insights for developing effective revitalization strategies for tourism destinations. Design/methodology/approach: Employing a qualitative research approach, the study utilizes the TALC model to conduct qualitative interviews with tour operators and hoteliers, aiming to gather nuanced insights into the im-pacts of the pandemic on tourism destinations. Nine tour operators and four hoteliers participated in the online interviews. Data analysis was driven by the interview responses, and thematic analysis was guided by concepts of the COVID-19 pandemic impacts and the six stages of Butler's TALC model. Findings: Severe impact of the pandemic on tourism businesses, encompassing a decline in tourist arrivals, business closures, and substantial job and income loss. Tourist destination impacts can be classified into four distinct stages― stagnation, exploration, involvement, development, and consolidation providing a structured framework for inter―preting the evolving dynamics of tourism destinations. Contextual issues and diverse approaches are suggested to revitalize tourist destinations in order remain attractive, competitive, and sustainable. Research limitations/implications: The restriction of the sample size to only two tourism sectors and generalizing findings due to the exploratory and qualitative nature of the research. Originality/value: It provides insightful of pandemic impacts on tourist destination and relevant strategies, drawing upon Butler's theory. The practical implications for destination management and stakeholder engagement are in-strumental in shaping the development of effective destination management strategies.