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The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching global impacts, with marginalised communities such as the Malakar, a traditional craft-making community, being especially vulnerable. Despite this, no scientific studies have examined COVID-19 impacts on the Malakar or their recovery processes. This study aims to identify the multifaceted impacts of COVID-19 on Malakar livelihoods using survey data from 128 households and explore recovery experiences through 12 in-depth interviews. Findings show that the pandemic significantly disrupted livelihoods, while socio-demographic characteristics, including age, education, family size, and income, positively influenced livelihood outcomes. Recovery pathways relied on personal savings, asset sales such as livestock, and loans. However, Malakar households continue to face persistent challenges, including capital shortages, high-interest loans, and limited access to fair markets. The study emphasises the need for targeted policy measures: financial assistance to restart craft enterprises, ensure a fair market, and diversified livelihood opportunities to recover from the pandemic crisis.
Bakebillah et al. (Thu,) studied this question.