Zaiga KRISJANE, University of Latvia, Latvia
Maris BERZINS, University of Latvia, Latvia
Girts BURGMANIS, University of Latvia, Latvia
Toms SKADINS, University of Latvia, Latvia
Elina APSITE-BERINA, University of Latvia, Latvia
The uncertain times of the COVID-19 disease outbreak have altered community behaviour and routine globally and locally. The COVID-19 pandemic is exposing regional imbalances and can cause significant socioeconomic disparities in the coming years.
The infection is a potential risk for the geriatric population (those above healthy life age) and those at the lower end of the socioeconomic and income distribution. Numerous studies in the last couple of years acknowledge shifts in standard behavioural patterns in terms of internal and international mobilities, adaptation to work from home (WFH), worsening of overall well-being, and struggles with psychological challenges and mental distress.
The purpose of this paper is to provide comparative evidence on the shifts of routine life starting from the pre-COVID-19 period to the latest evidence from Latvia.
The methodology relies on a population survey collected in May 2021 across Latvia. The total number of respondents is 4445. According to the findings, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in regionally new forms of "normal" life and altered behavioural patterns.
There are geographical contrasts among regions and between urban and rural areas. There is specificity in the findings when comparing results throughout regions, different ages, education, and forms of employment. The results also suggest high impact and adaptation challenges in upcoming years to students. Also, respondents WFH with higher education, qualified specialists, managers, business owners, and tertiary sector workers, as they deal with the most visible changes in their daily lives. Besides patterns of increased digital mobility is the new “normal” in both core and peripheral parts Latvia.
Keywords: Covid-19 pandemic|work from home|core and periphery|mobility|Latvia
A104376ZK