Category: Pandemic

Introduction

The Saudi government has allocated funds and established a list of initiatives to accelerate the industrial sectors recovery from the Corona pandemic.

Pandemic Consequences

Coronavirus cases in Saudi Arabia are relatively low. However, the external economic environment related to the pandemic might have a higher financial impact on Saudi Arabia than the internal coronavirus cases.

Initiatives

• Further promotion of the tourism sector development;
• Enhancement of domestic tourism opportunities;
• Offering discounts and extra opportunities for foreign visitors;
• Development of new commercial attractions and entertainment for tourists;
• Active investment in the local economy (2025 projections)

Services

The main sectors of industry in Saudi Arabia are the oil industry, services, and agriculture. The last-mentioned sector only takes 2-3% of total employment and added value, whereas other sectors have a much more considerable economical importance (The economic context of Saudi Arabia, 2021).

Tourism Issue

Pandemic restrictions caused a vast decrease in tourism, as traveling and commercial flights in particular have five times lower rates than before (Global Flight Tracking Intelligence, 2021). Tourism is significantly influenced by foreign consumers, hence the decrease in global demand for provided services as well as the ability to provide them has a considerable influence on the industry.

Initiatives Details: Saudi Arabia Oil Exports

Almost half of the national income in Saudi Arabia is generated by oil production and export, which makes the industry globally dependent. During the previous year, oil prices and demand underwent a dramatic drop. Such events had a significant impact on any oil-focused economy, including Saudi Arabia.

Initiatives Details: Card template

As it is impossible to immediately end the pandemic and resume global tourism, it is crucial to develop two main strategies, First, specific measures should be taken to help service-aimed businesses survive the pandemic without bankruptcy. Second, alternative sources of domestic revenue should be supported by the government to sustain the economy. Provided initiatives may contribute to the solution of the above-mentioned issues. Subsidizing the agricultural sector should be considered as it may create more employment and an alternative source of production and revenue, which does not depend on the global environment.

Introducing tax benefits and a bankruptcy moratorium may allow tourist-aimed businesses to get through the pandemic. Such initiatives may maintain the tourism industry and help it recover as soon as pandemic restrictions end.

Legislation should be modified to prevent the recruitment of foreign workforces to decrease local unemployment which may positively affect all industry sectors and increase domestic purchasing power.

Small and medium-sized enterprises should receive financial support as well as subsidized loans to support business continuity and provide necessary resources to preserve hard-hit industries.

The establishment of new trade agreements related to oil export may prevent overproduction and unnecessary storage costs caused by lower consumption.

Agricultural Area Initiatives

Particular attention should be focused on the development of the agricultural segment of the industry. The modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a global dependent economy, which significantly relies on export and tourism. Pandemic restrictions and the oil crisis have shown that such allocation of financial resources may lead to a list of internal problems. Therefore it is crucial to develop local manufacturing of diverse products to at least supply the internal market. Such products should include technical devices, clothing, food, and building services.

The most perspective area, that may grant needed economical independence to Saudi Arabia is agriculture. Even though agriculture provides only a couple percent of revenue, it is already established as an industry and is relatively significant. Introducing various tax credits, grants, and legislation benefits may help the agricultural area develop rapidly with a list of positive consequences. First, it may not only decrease unemployment but also benefit from the current state, when people are in search of jobs. Second, it may provide the domestic market with basic foodstuffs, decreasing import costs. Finally, it may transform the Arabian Oil production economy into a less oil-dependent state.

References

Gornall, J. (2020). How Saudi Arabia conducted Hajj amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Arab News. Web.

KPMG. (2020). Government and institution measures in response to COVID-19. Web.

Global flight tracking intelligence: Live flight tracker and airport status. (2021). AirNav Radarbox. Web.

Saudi Arabia oil exports. (n.d.). Trading Economics. Web.

The economic context of Saudi Arabia. (2021). Nordea Trade Portal. Web.

Summary of the Case

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen resulted from the armed conflict, which happened six years ago and still affects the lives of the citizens. Alongside thousands of killed and injured people, it worsened the situation by continuously increasing the number of internally displaced people, which has already reached about 4 million residents. All these events have a direct impact on the countrys economy since they led to the collapse of the currency, the inability of the government to provide everyone with food and other commodities, and other challenges (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 2021). In addition, the escalation of the problem was complemented by the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought Yemen to the brink of famine (United Nations Development Programme, 2020). The scarce resources of this country in this regard evoke concerns of the world organizations.

In this way, the mechanism of the described crisis implies the combination of the specified circumstances, the ongoing conflict within Yemen and the emergence of the COVID-19 threat, and their subsequent influence on the economy. As follows from the official reports, the war actions led to a drastic decline in all industries, and the present-day risks to the citizens health with accompanying needs prevented the country from recovering in this respect (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, 2021). Being one of the least favorable locations in terms of economic affairs, Yemen was marked as the most deteriorating market.

Application of Country Crisis Framework

According to the country crisis framework containing the major indicators, which contribute to the presence of an issue, the most important data are provided by economic figures. In Yemens case, they are primarily related to the available resources and the perspectives of further development of the field. As per the official statistics, the rapid decline in gross domestic product (GDP) growth from 2.1 to -5% over the period from 2019 to 2020 (Yemen / Economic Studies, 2021). It means that the economy is not developing, and the GDP reflecting the low value of produced goods and services illustrates the problems best.

Other essential numbers allowing to evaluate the crisis are the inflation rate, public debt, current account, and the principal trends alongside specialists forecasts for 2021. As follows from the website with official data, the average yearly inflation increased from 10.0 to 26.0%, and further growth is expected (Yemen / Economic Studies, 2021). This indicator means that the prices are rising, and this trend contributes to the aggravation of the crisis. It is complemented by the public debt, which changed from 76.5 to 81.5 (Yemen / Economic Studies, 2021). Nevertheless, the specialists believe that this figure, which demonstrates the countrys ability to receive funds and spend them on critical needs, is decreasing. The current account balance amounting to -6.5 compared to -3.9 in the previous year shows the absence of resources (Yemen / Economic Studies, 2021). Considering the above facts, it can be concluded that the economic position of Yemen is gradually worsening.

Relationship to the Current Case

The provided economic figures prove the interrelation between COVID-19 with the arms conflict and the countrys economy. Thus, for example, the process of manufacturing new goods and rendering services is complicated by the numerous threats for people as they cannot produce anything in the context of continuing crises. As a result, the GDP growth is slowed down, and the recovery is unlikely until the accompanying risks are mitigated. The trends in inflation rates also correspond to the low economic status of the market. These circumstances are complemented by the governments inability to provide the citizens with sufficient resources and the lack of funds for it shown in public debts growth and account balance indicators, respectively.

These considerations are complemented by the existence of particular strengths and weaknesses stemming from the countrys economic position. The former includes humanitarian aid and international support, the importance of Yemens position for principal operations, cultural and architectural heritage, and available gas reserves (Yemen / Economic studies, 2021). Meanwhile, the latter are more numerous and complex and presented by the division of Yemen, poverty, dependence, demographic pressure, unfavorable business environment, and restricted access to other markets products and foreign exchange (Yemen / Economic studies, 2021). In other words, the country receives sufficient aid, but the delivered goods are being stolen by the soldiers. Its location at the entrance to the Red Sea does not provide any advantages due to the maritime blockade. In turn, the available resources cannot be used because of the obstacles to their realization in the market explained by bureaucracy, corruption, and poor infrastructure.

Key Take-Away For Future Crises

The economic data provided above can be viewed through the lens of the current COVID-19 crisis complemented by the war conflict on the territory of Yemen. The former is believed to result in over 230,000 deaths, which exceeds the number of the latters casualties over the past five years (Karasapan, 2020). This outcome confirms the severity of the situation and presents the theoretical underpinning of similar events for future periods of economic decline. It attests to the emergence of critical conditions regarding citizens survival when war actions are added by the pandemic. Therefore, it can be concluded that countries with serious issues should be supported first when it comes to health threats.

This conclusion positively correlates with the ratings of Yemen published by the agencies. Thus, the sovereign status, which means the capability to address the public debt, remains the default, as per D-rate (Yemen: Risk assessment, 2020). The same applies to the banking sector characterized by non-performing loans stemming from the conflict and the fragile public finances, which also received a D-rate, and a C-rate of the currency means its instability (Yemen: Risk assessment, 2020). Economic and political risks remain high, and this fact is explained by the reliance on foreign aid and the warring parties, respectively (Yemen: Risk assessment, 2020). In the end, Yemens economic position is unfavorable, and the challenges are not expected to be overcome in the nearest future.

References

Karasapan, O. (2020). Yemen and COVID-19: The pandemic exacts its devastating toll. Brookings.

United Nations Development Programme. (2020). A strategic framework for an immediate socio-economic response to COVID-19 in Yemen (2020  2021).

United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (2021). Humanitarian needs overview: Yemen.

Yemen / Economic studies. (2021). Coface.

Yemen: Risk assessment. (2020). The Economist Intelligence Unit.

Introduction

The pandemic has greatly impacted the labor trends of the U.S., both expanding and limiting opportunities for employers and employees. Nonetheless, most workers lost their jobs in the spring of 2020, and while some gave up looking for a new job, others were more enthusiastic about searching for an option (Auginbaugh & Rothstein, 2022). Even though the unemployment rate has hit its historically high level, the labor force participation rate (LFPR) is still non-significant, and people have barely attempted to look for a new workplace.

U.S. Labor Trends

There has been a visible growth in the popularity of remote work from the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic. Since 2020, many companies have had to cancel office work and shift to online work, which has created major alterations in the business industry. What is more, the U.S. labor system has witnessed drastic changes in hiring and layoff processes. Major fields, such as healthcare and education, were on-demand and requested an additional workforce. Regardless of the high unemployment rate, there are still staff shortages across the country, which are unlikely to be solved in the following years due to the peoples unwillingness to find a job. For example, 70% of women claimed it was difficult to get back to work as they needed to take care of children and do the chores (Ferguson, 2022). On the other hand, service industries started to decline, and many individuals in this field lost their workplaces. In general, the jobs keep adding up, whereas the unemployment level is gradually increasing.

The Pandemic Industry Hiring Trends

The legal industry has witnessed major alterations since the pandemic began. Since the beginning of 2020, numerous sectors have had to adjust to the new methods of conducting business, and the legal field was not an exemption. The demand for lawyers, associates, and other legal professionals has increased, and the number of cases to be solved also surged. Therefore, legal firms had to boost the hiring process by interviewing candidates online. The gain of jobs was tangible  only in April 2022, 31,700 workplaces were added (Weiss, 2022). With the demand for specialists, the companies started to hire professionals suggesting short-term training, which impacted the quality of services provided. It used to take up to six months to educate an employee, while during the pandemic, the training time had to be drastically trimmed. Overall, the growth is expected to remain on the same level as the number of legal cases continues to rise.

Industry Layoffs due to Pandemic

The other industry that fell under the influence of the pandemic was brick-and-mortar retail. This field has suffered massive personnel layoffs for the rapid halt in demand for its products and services. The decline of this industry was foreseen as e-commerce has taken over the market, offering more deals (Schnure, 2021). As a result, most small retailers had to shut down their stores for the inability to pay their workers (Thorphe, 2022). A smaller number of staff was required to sustain operations during the pandemic as the demand-and-supply chain was on the verge of crisis. Some professionals were no longer needed to maintain the business operations because the buying power of customers had reduced. Therefore, the brick-and-mortar workforce may witness permanent layoffs as the online stores displace the offline ones.

The Post-Pandemic Workforce

After a turbulent two-year period, the businesses are ready to rebound with full efficiency. Probably one of the novelties among workforce hiring trends of 2022 would be the use of advanced screening tools (Friedman, 2022). Numerous organizations use apply for resume review as a primary tool for assessing a candidates eligibility for a position. However, modern realities dictate the usage of new methods such as skills tests. These tests will automatically evaluate ones abilities and help employers determine if a person meets the criteria. In addition, this streamlined technology is supposed to shorten the hiring process and boost the performance of the new employees. Skill tests are also useful for identifying underqualified people (Koch, 2021). Moreover, they assist candidates in highlighting the competencies to be developed.

The other new tendency which will sustain the business operation throughout this and the following years is engaging workers by offering remote work. This strategy has become a subject of multiple debates for its controversial nature. It was thought to be ineffective, whereas others claimed it was a productive condition for work. Since the pandemic made many companies transfer from office to home, this trend gained popularity. What is more, most individuals have already gotten used to working from home and no longer desire to work offline. As a result, the organizations aim to entice employees to work for them but remotely. It is an efficient means of expanding the workforce since it does not require additional office seats (Friedman, 2022). Moreover, it attracts people from all over the world, making it possible to implement more positive changes in the company (How manufacturers can create, 2021). In general, this trend is expected to gain more relevance as working remotely is less time-consuming and more comfortable.

Conclusion

The pandemic has drastically amended the U.S. labor market, causing a high unemployment rate and staff shortage, affecting numerous fields. For example, the hiring process in the legal industry had to be boosted for the demand for professionals, whereas the brick-and-mortar retail stores had to stud down and fire many workers. As a result, to sustain the business operation, the companies should use advanced skills screening tools and offer remote work.

References

Auginbaugh, A., & Rothstein, D. (2022). How did employment change during the COVID-19 pandemic? Evidence from a new BLS survey supplement. Beyond the Numbers. Web.

Ferguson, S. (2022). Understanding Americas labor shortage. U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Web.

Friedman, E. (2022). Hiring and recruitment trends to expect in 2022.Forbes. Web.

How manufacturers can create a talent pipeline and close the post-pandemic skills gap. (2021). Industry Week. Web.

Koch, A. (2021). Should talent be an extension of technology, or vice versa? Industry Week. Web.

Schnure, C. (2021). Brick-and-mortar retail is bouncing back.Forbes. Web.

Thorphe, M. (2022). Should companies retrain staff and avoid layoffs?LinkedIn. Web.

Weiss, D. (2022). Legal industry added 4,700 jobs last month; numbers continue to top pre-pandemic high. Abajournal. Web.

Nowadays, many seafarers are suffering from the impacts of a pandemic. There is a broken chain of command whereby they have presented with pandemic programs that are impractical to apply (De Beukelaer, 2021). Crew changing was strongly hindered by the directives that were given by most jurisdictions to close their borders. Under a claim of force majeure, the companies lured the seafarers into extending their contracts during the pandemic, a strong indication of how the maritime labor union is not well equipped to handle the seafarers welfares in extreme cases of a pandemic.

The issue of key workers on seafarers during the pandemic has never been practical even after passing it through relevant government bodies. The labor convention has still had several unaccepted breaches of numerous stranded seafarers in the ports. The Neptune declaration was initially drafted to help ease tension among seafarers. However, the golden standards anticipated to raise the efficiency of health protocols and prioritize the vaccinations to seafarers became impractical (Chandra 2021). One more problem is that the work of seafarers will be automatized soon, and thus, seafarers are not the priority (United Nations, 2021). During the COVID-19 pandemic, seafarers and key workers had to move from one location to another for a crew change, exposing themselves to the risk of infection. Routes were blocked entirely, and travel schedules either by air, road or water kept on changing due to quarantine exercise. Moreover, there is a considerable gap in developing countries maritime processes, which does not provide a proper medical service for seafarers during the pandemic (United Nations, 2021). These aspects made the crew changing process difficult.

Negligence and lack of interest in the seafarers welfare have affected the psychology and mindset of most seafarers. The issue of crew changing was equally minute to bulge and become an uncontrollable variable (Shan). If all seafarers were to be recognized as key workers, then entry restrictions and corresponding quarantine requirements in different countries on the crews would be eased. Stannard (2020) claims that 200000 seafarers remain on board even after the extended contract expires. They cannot change due to different and unforgiving restrictions across each country they pass as they deliver goods worldwide. Not enough has been done to protect seafarers from pandemic effects due to insufficient marine communication and unequal treatment of seafarers. Therefore, a lack of interest in the matter of crew welfare has impacted the maritime sector heavily.

References

Chandra, C. M. (2021). Impact of the Pandemic on global Shipping. IIRE Journal of Maritime Research and Development, 5(2). Web.

De Beukelaer, C. (2021). COVID-19 Border Closures Cause Humanitarian Crew Change Crisis at Sea. Marine Policy, 104661. Web.

Shan, D. Occupational health and safety challenges for maritime key workers in the global COVID19 pandemic. International Labour Review. Web.

Stannard, S. (2020). COVID-19 in the maritime setting: The challenges, regulations and the international response. International Maritime Health, 71(2), 85-90. Web.

United Nations. (2021). Review of Maritime Transport 2020. United Nations.

Introduction

Social welfare and national insurance programs are the primary forms of public support aid in the United States. Incentives from social programs are typically associated with low salaries and means-tested qualifications. Numerous countries provide direct funding for scientific and technological research through tax incentives or grant-giving organizations like the National Academy of Sciences in the United States. The following research is a breakdown of the government support schemes, COVID-19 pandemic stressors, and outcomes escalated by low-income households due to their inability to meet their financial demands.

Government Support

The economic recession has been primarily defined by rising unemployment and insolvency among citizens of the United States. Administrative inefficiency has resulted in the economic downturn, resulting in budgetary constraints for several of our nations public bodies. Similarly, the crisis substantially impacts local bodies due to reduced income alternatives and the incapacity to deficit-spend (Parolin 4). These budgetary limits, reductions in state support and principal revenue streams (income, sales, and real estate taxes), and increases in pension expenses and service expenditures equally pose substantial financial issues to local governments (Kanter et al.). Similarly, the United States Government faces significant financial challenges in managing the given requirements of decreased revenues, higher service demands, and the costs of unbudgeted state and federal mandates.

Notably, meeting the demands of infrastructure and its extra expenses, comprehension and tackling obstacles for voluntary mutual mergers, and the current financial issues related to pensions are significant issues experienced by the local government amid state funding. As the economic crisis proceeds to influence local government, problems closely linked to the budget crisis are advancing due to the government support strategies (Golberstein et al. 6). Additionally, the difficulty of combining local financial realities with lower income, growing service demands, and the price of unfulfilled state and federal regulations are the primary problems in government support schemes (Parolin 3). The associated expenditures, structural economic and fiscal problems with retirement benefits, and adjusting emerging economic opportunities with environmental risks deteriorate the countrys economy.

Nonetheless, government benefits significantly benefit the needy citizens in the United States. In addition to boosting the credibility of the disabled and vulnerable, government support schemes are equally non-refundable and easily accessible. Instances of government benefits in the United States are unemployment compensation, supplemental food assistance program payments, and Social Security benefits. The nations leading State and municipal social welfare programs in the United States are Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), General Assistance (G.A.), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) (Kanter et al.). The United States Government has utilized the above social schemes to financially boost the poor, unemployed, and vulnerable.

WIC offers complementary health products and nutrition education to pregnant, nursing, and postnatal women, newborns, and children up to five years (OFallon et al. 4). Women and their relatives can equally get breastfeeding assistance and advice from the program. Applicants fulfill all qualifying conditions through proof of identification, gross income, and nationality (OFallon et al. 7). The Special Supplemental Nutrition program strives to protect the well-being of low-income mums, babies, and children in danger of malnutrition by providing nutritious meals to supplement diets, education on healthy food, and recommendations to medical coverage.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) reimburses monthly benefits to vulnerable individuals and children with disabilities or impairments with income and resources below certain financial thresholds. Supplemental Security Income benefits are also granted to adults above 60 who are not disabled and fulfill the income requirements (OFallon et al. 7). Equally, citizens who qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance or pension benefits may still qualify for SSI monthly payments. Significantly, the time-limited TANF program supports households whose parents or other concerned families cannot meet the familys necessities. The federal government pays the states funding for the State to administer the TANF program. Similarly, the United States offers support to poor citizens through the general aid program (G.A.). The General Aid program is a General Relief scheme that offers relief and assistance to poor people without access to other public funds or supportive services.

Pandemic Stressors

Citizens of the United States confronted a global health crisis of Coved 19 in the recent past. The pandemic claimed many lives, disseminated human misery, and undermined lives. Significantly, the pandemic caused human, economic, and societal disasters across the globe and wreaked havoc on communities. Consequently, concerns and worry over COVID-19 and its consequences overpowered individuals in the United States (Kanter et al.). As a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, various alterations to peoples lives, like uncertainty, disrupted normal activities, financial hardships, and social isolation, have been encountered.

Equally, information overload, rumors, and falsehoods evoked bitter sentiments in people, making them feel out of touch and doubtful of what to do. Consequently, suffering from tension, worry, fear, despair, and loneliness were everyday stressors during the COVID-19 plague (Kanter et al.). The COVID-19 epidemic affected all sections of the population and devastated individuals of the most vulnerable social groups. It continues to afflict impoverished individuals, aged persons, disabled people, adolescents, and indigenous peoples.

Similarly, studies showed a rise in the number of U.S. citizens who reported stress, anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness amid the COVID-19 pandemic (Golberstein et al. 2). Many individuals escalate their consumption of drugs and alcohol, the notion that it will enable them to sustain their pandemic anxieties. During the quarantine, older men, especially those living alone or with mental dementia, experienced irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal; the pandemic also caused sadness in youngsters.

Outcomes of Insufficient Household Needs

As an outcome of low-income rates, households inability to satisfy their requirements has significantly escalated significant outcomes. Essentially, the incapacity to acquire necessities pressures parents and others in society. Poverty is more likely associated with disadvantaged neighborhoods and overcrowded or substandard accommodation conditions (Parolin 6). Children from low-income homes frequently lose out on experiences that most take for granted. They miss out on school excursions, cannot ask friends around for tea, and cannot afford a week away from home.

Consequently, teenagers living in overcrowded, substandard houses are more likely to develop meningitis, suffer respiratory problems, or suffer psychological health issues like anxiety and sadness. Recently, research on low-income families has revealed many hardships and obstacles encountered by low-income families, expanding awareness of their multidimensional life circumstances buried within the frameworks of society, culture, and policy (Parolin 8). Family and Economic Difficulties of poor citizens mainly focus on financial welfare, life and family concerns, and food production. Poverty exerts a detrimental influence on families and caregivers in a variety of ways. Adults living in poverty have worse health outcomes than children, including higher death rates and elevated psychological issues such as depression and drug use disorders.

Similarly, inequality in income distribution makes it challenging for parents to strike a work-life balance. It encourages them to devote time at residence to provide for their children while still participating in school and outside activities (Golberstein et al. 4). Low-income parents are more prone to work long days in risky professions that may not provide essential assistance, such as maternity leave or sick pay. Low-income parents often have less freedom and options than other parents.

Significantly, low-income parents and male family members may be at risk of lower family engagement owing to unfavorable judgments of their worth and capacity to fulfill the role of economic provider as a father. It is vital to emphasize that the link between poverty and father engagement is compounded by institutional violence and other systemic impediments (Parolin 9). According to a recent study, despite racial and classist perceptions of deadbeat dads, the overwhelming number of low-income fathers are connected with their children if the concept of fatherhood is enlarged beyond financial support.

Conclusion

Deprivation is not a pleasant situation, it is marked by insecure and asymmetric jobs, odd work timetables, altering state assistance, and evolving residential structures. Equally, typical housing pushes and other modifications that jeopardize their risky financial situation and evidence suggest their health and well-being. Poor nutrition, chronic illness, and mental health issues are just a few health issues children born into deprivation are more likely to encounter. Families are further strained by poverty, which can result in issues with mental well-being and relationships, money issues, and drug abuse. Adults living in poverty are more likely to have adverse health outcomes from obesity, smoking, drug use, chronic stress, and the long-lasting effects of childhood poverty. Finally, death and disability rates are higher among older persons with lower earnings.

Works Cited

Golberstein, Ezra, et al. Effect of Medicare Home Health Care Payment on Informal Care. 2009, Web.

Kanter, Jeremy B., et al. Strengthening Lower Income Families. 2021.

OFallon, Maura, et al. Assessing Shared Reading in Families at Risk: Does Quantity Predict Quality? 2022.

Parolin, Zachary. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families and the BlackWhite Child Poverty Gap in the United States. 2021, Columbia University, New York, USA.

Introduction

Many philosophies are trying to provide their own, unique explanation of the world and humans place in it. One of them, existentialism, suggests that people exist before there is the essence and cannot but create or construct essence and meaning (Vandekerckhove, 2020, p. 130).

Discussion

According to that philosophy, being a human means having endless choices and possibilities, though the correlated responsibility is inescapable. Existential everydayness is indifferent, which makes it difficult for humans to live an authentic life. Finally, existentialism suggests that the primary meaning of human life is death, which is why it is the most significant part of being a human (Vandekerckhove, 2020). Life itself may vary during a persons existence, but there is only one possible ending.

As it is known, the coronavirus pandemic has been torturing our planet and the people inhabiting it for more than two years now. COVID-19 has become a widescale issue that has affected the entire world, which is why it appears interesting to evaluate the virus from an existential viewpoint. According to Vandekerckhove (2020), one of the core tenets of existentialism is associated with people being thrown into the world (p. 130). Humans can create and build their lives, but they cannot change the place in which they have to live. Existential philosophy suggests that the coronavirus pandemic is an unavoidable circumstance of living, and people have no other choice but to embrace it and adjust to it.

Conclusion

However, the philosophy of existentialism may help people deal with the pandemic issue because of such an attitude. Once humans can consider coronavirus from an existential viewpoint, they may take it easier, accepting the situation and not being overly nervous about it.

Reference

Vandekerckhove, W. (2020). COVID, existentialism and crisis philosophy. Philosophy of Management, 19(2), 127-132.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a pandemic as a worldwide disease outbreak that is mainly characterized by high infection levels, a perceived lack of immunity against the disease-causing agent, and a high rate of spread and survival among human populations (Chiras, 2010). In the light of this definition, examples of pandemics would include Ebola, Swine Flu, Spanish Flu, Avian Influenza, HIV/AIDS, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The term biothreat, on its part, is markedly used in bioterrorism circles to denote a real or perceived threat of the use of biological or chemical weapons on human populations using such agents as Salmonella enteric and Bacillus anthracis (Pallen, 2007).

Government agencies across the world have developed comprehensive measures and policies aimed at dealing with biothreats and pandemic outbreaks. By virtue of the fact that biothreats and bioterrorism occur due to the prevalence of intentionally induced agents, and with the realization that many biothreat/bioterrorism attacks may be highly infectious (Clarke et al, 2008), it is important to respond swiftly by ensuring the availability of an adequate number of workers to deal with the situation, facilitating good communication networks between workers in the central offices and those in the field, obtaining expert advice on the type and scope of the introduced agent, removing any legal barriers that may impede agent containment, ensuring adequate disease reporting and surveillance mechanisms, and introducing restrictive measures, isolation and quarantine to limit spread (Hoffman, 2003).

The world has indeed learned a lot from the SARS outbreak and the anthrax attacks. Some of the lessons that cannot escape mention include the need to develop resources that could be swiftly mobilized in the event of an outbreak; need to undertake education and awareness programs to equip human populations on how to act in the event of an outbreak; need to develop rapid disease reporting and surveillance mechanisms, and; the need to maintain acceptable health and hygiene standards to guard against pandemics (Clarke et al, 2008). Other lessons include: recapitalizing public and private health infrastructure to effectively deal with arising outbreaks; expanding local and regional surge capabilities for mass-casualty care in the event of an outbreak, and; establishing comprehensive and well-equipped research institutions to deal with issues of pathogen analysis (Heyman, 2002).

Governments and other interested agencies must be in a position to avail resources to deal with pandemics such as the Avian Flu and SARS, and bioterrorist attacks such as the 2001 Anthrax attacks on the United States. Among the resources needed to respond to both incidences, it is clear that physicians, epidemiologists, nurses, public health officials and other medical practitioners are needed to investigate incidences of the outbreak, establish or expand disease reporting and surveillance, confirm additional incidences, investigate the epicenter of the attacks, and recommend treatment solutions (Heyman, 2002). Preventive and curative medicines are also needed as a core resource. In addition, comprehensive and well-equipped medical research institutes are needed for purpose of analyzing the samples taken from the field to illuminate proper treatment protocols. Lastly, laboratory resources and diagnostic capacities are needed as core resources to effectively contain the incidences. It is imperative to note that law enforcement agencies, including the police, FBI agents, and other government officials, are required in the event of a bioterrorist attack principally because of the fact that such attacks, as opposed to pandemics, are criminal in nature, thus the need to undertake criminal investigations (Heyman, 2002).

Reference List

Chiras, D.D. (2010). Human biology. Sudbury, MA: Jones & Bartlett Learning Clarke, T.L., Rotarius, T., Liberman, A., Cattani, J., Nievas, K., Sumner, J., & Palaniappan, R. (2008). Responding to a bioterrorism attack  one scenario: Part 1. Health Care Management, 27(3), 192-211

Heyman, D. (2002). Lessons from the anthrax attacks: Implications for U.S. bioterrorism preparedness. Web.

Hoffman, R.E. (2003). Preparing for a bioterrorist attack: Legal and administrative strategies. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 9(2). Web.

Pallen, M.J. (2007). Bacterial pathogenomics. Washington, DC: American Society of Microbiology

The coronavirus pandemic has become the most significant crisis of the last years. Since millions of people are infected worldwide, specific steps are taken to address the situation. Social distancing, self-isolation, and other preventive measures have resulted in essential economic, social, and political disadvantages for the whole world. In addition to that, the pandemic has affected our daily life, including what we feel, how we behave with relatives, and how we treat friends.

To begin with, one should state that the pandemic implied severe health issues because numerous people were at risk of getting infected. That is why it is possible to suggest that the summer of 2020 will be associated with danger and fear while that of 2019 does not evoke such negative feelings and emotions. This fact is an adverse phenomenon that was caused by a coronavirus. Simultaneously, the pandemic has resulted in some good aspects, and better family relationships are among them. It relates to the fact that the crisis has made people stay at their homes for a long time. Thus, coronavirus can be considered positive since it has improved my relationships with parents and other relatives compared to the previous year.

At the same time, one can mention that the pandemic has led to controversial results, and relationships with my friends are a suitable example here. It relates to the fact that the preventive measures made personal meetings impossible, emphasizing online communications role. Even though it is an adverse consequence, this type of communication has significantly narrowed my social circle. In other words, it is possible to mention that the pandemic has revealed the difference between true friendship and good fellowship. In 2019, I thought that I had five or even more friends, but 2020 has limited this number to two people.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that coronavirus is a severe medical issue that has negatively impacted the whole world. There is a significant difference between the summers of 2019 and 2020. However, it is challenging to state that the pandemic is not associated with any positive phenomena. Even though the coronavirus crisis has brought danger and fear to society, its positive consequences include strengthening relationships with family and identifying real friends.

Current Situation

At the end of 2019, COVID-19, a severe acute respiratory syndrome, was identified in Wuhan, China (Sanyaolu et al. 2020). It has rapidly spread all over the world, and in the present day, more than 180 countries are affected (Sanyaolu et al. 2020).

The World Health Organization has declared OVID-19 a pandemic (Spinelli & Pellino, 2020). Self-isolation, lockdown, wearing masks, and social distancing are measures used to prevent active virus transmission. Pandemic has immeasurably affected all spheres of human activity. At the same time, the pandemic has both advantages and disadvantages

Why Opossum Is the Best Opponent?

Due to its flexible diet, an opossum adapted to live in cities, that is why, it witnesses the impact of the pandemic on people. At the same time, an opossum is not a domestic animal and may speak on behalf of wild animals as well. As a substantial number of people have a negative attitude towards an opossum, it is considerably interested in the spread of COVID-19 and subsequent isolation

Opossums Standpoint

Pandemic has a positive impact on the environment as the level of pollution substantively decreased due to the limitation of manufacturing. Wild animals may return to their habitats as deforestation is temporarily ceased. Due to the absence of people animals including opossums feel more comfortable and safe in cities. Due to self-isolation people with limited freedom of moving to produce more rubbish (for opossums as well).

When Two Positions Conflict

Animals in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries may experience shortages of food due to the absence of visitors and funding. Due to self-isolation, community services work more efficiently  rubbish is collected faster, and nothing is left for opossums. The impact of the pandemic on people is not examined. In addition to increased mortality and morbidity rates related to COVID-19, people suffer from anxiety and depression due to self-isolation.

Common Values and Potential Solution

It goes without saying that the opossums argument in defense of COVID-19 concerning pollution is absolutely reasonable  environmental improvement may be regarded as a substantial advantage of the pandemic. At the same time, the impact of the virus on humans is underrated by animals while the life and well-being of domestic animals and wild animals that live in captivity substantially depends on people. The spread of COVID-19 should be reduced, however, the environmental impact of the pandemic should be saved.

The potential solution implies control over deforestation in terms of legislation. In addition, animals in the cities may be provided by food  community services may install feeders for street cats, dogs, and wild animals, including opossums. Zoos funding in the period of the pandemic should be provided by the government.

Benefits of a Dispute with an Opossum

According to the results of this discussion, it is possible to conclude that despite its tragic consequences, the pandemic has advantages as well. Although it has a negative impact on people, the spread of the virus and related isolation positively affects the environment.

The results of the pandemic and its influence on wildlife should be considered in the future in order to save positive changes. Domestic animals and wild animals that live in cities close to humans require help during the pandemic as they may experience a shortage of food or care.

References

Sanyaolu, A., Okorie, C., Marinkovic, A., Patidar, R., Younis, K., Desai, P. Hosein, Z., Padda, I., Mangat, J., & Altaf, M. (2020). Comorbidity and its impact on patients with COVID-19. SN Comprehensive Clinical Medicine, 2, 10691076. 

Spinelli, A., & Pellino, G. (2020). COVID19 pandemic: Perspectives on an unfolding crisis. British Journal of Surgery, 107(7), 785-787. Web.

Introduction

The global coronavirus pandemic greatly affected the market equilibrium in several markets for personal care, medical, and consumer products (Anonymous Supply, Demand, and Shortages, 2022). The increased demand for a range of products led to increased product costs. This research paper explains  how increased demand for these products and subsequent government actions to regulate prices led to shortages of several products, such as medical masks, sanitizers, and personal care products.

The paper explains that the government measures to regulate prices, namely the creation of price ceilings, created shortages of essential and personal care products. The author explains that the emergence of the price ceiling causes the market to deviate from its equilibrium point and creates a significant difference between supply and demand, artificially creating shortages. The papers author also notes that this process cannot be called an actual shortage, as it is not caused by a physical lack of goods but by the fact that consumers have begun to buy essential goods for stock. Nevertheless, the researcher notes that this deficit is temporary, and the market will return to an equilibrium position after a decrease in demand and an increase in supply caused by the increased production of these products.

The Teacher Shortage in the U.S.

There may also be shortages in the labor market for certain professionals. In the U.S., there is a severe shortage of teachers at all levels, which is projected to only worsen over time (Sutcher et al., 2019). This state of the labor market stems from the fact that all government programs currently in place in the U.S. are focused on recruiting new teachers but rarely aim to reduce turnover within the profession. The constant turnover of professionals is the main reason for the current shortage of teachers in the country.

The author explains that the high cost of education in the U.S. often forces young people to choose higher-paying professions to pay off their student debt. The demanding job of teaching, which has a relatively low average income, and the lack of attention to the teacher-training process are the main reasons why the profession is unpopular. Teachers who are sufficiently educated in this field are more likely to remain as teachers in the future. Therefore, the author suggests that in response to growing demand, systems should be implemented to retain teachers in their jobs. This system should include effective mentoring by more senior teachers and increasing salaries to increase the number of teachers working longer than a year.

Falling Demand for Environmentally Friendly Plastic and Paper

Finally, a recent paper on the changing supply and demand for innovative forms of packaging ware also describes the current market fluctuations and their equilibrium points. Despite the growing popularity of products made from recyclable and biodegradable plastics, their cost is increasing due to a decrease in supply. Difficulties in supply chains that emerged during the coronavirus led to higher production costs, altering the supply schedule (Oller, 2022). Moreover, the war in Ukraine has increased the cost of electricity, a high cost for producing environmentally friendly plastics and paper packages.

Conclusion

Thus, the supply shortages in the oil and gas market resulting from the war in Eastern Europe have led to a sharp increase in energy prices. It, in turn, has affected the cost of environmentally friendly packaging materials, reducing their attractiveness. Despite the continuous increase in demand for this product, its cost is increasing, which may lead to a drop in demand at the end of this year. Since demand for this product is elastic and there are many substitute products, the market may experience a short-term drop in demand in the coming years.

References

Oller, S. (2022). Big Foods sustainable packaging goals hit supply and demand reality. Food Dive. Web.

Anonymous (2022). Supply, Demand, and Shortages: Regulation. Cato Institute, 45(2), 28-29. Web.

Sutcher, L., Darling-Hammond, L., & Carver-Thomas, D. (2019). Understanding teacher shortages: An analysis of teacher supply and demand in the United States. Education Policy Analysis Archives, 27(35). Web.