On 2 June 2020, a panel discussion was conducted by Global Research Forum on Diaspora and Transnationalism (GRFDT) on the topic, ‘Livelihood of Migrants during COVID 19 and Future Challenges”.
Eminent scholar Jeffrey Lesserfrom Emory University, shared his research that is focused on migrants in São Paulo neighbourhoods. In particular, he spoke about irregular immigrants in informal factories belonging to the textile industry
In Brazil, contrary to media reports, the National Health Service on the ground has been quick to respond positively to the pandemic. They are using the streets as clinics and employing contact tracing methods in crowded neighbourhoods – methods that have improved and developed over time, seeing as how Brazil has vast experience in dealing with past epidemics such as the Zika virus, dengue, measles etc. However, these efforts are being degraded as tensions continue to rise between health professionals and politicians.
Both countriesBrazil and USA have presidential figures who don’t believe in science, who are focused on short term re-election at the cost of the lives of people as an influential factor for migrants’ health: Jeffrey Lesser
Due to the pandemic, many of these undocumented migrants from neighbouring countries such as Bolivia, Paraguay etc. return home out of fear of border issues and the spread of the virus itself. Unlike their fellow Korean migrants who are better connected with more economic opportunities and alternative health networks, these irregular migrants sometimes have no choice but to return home.
Tashryn Mohd Shahrin is an avid rock climber, who loves the thrill of heights. When she is not climbing, she is gushing over babies and hanging out in book cafes.