Pandemic as a factor of social change. Family and labour market

Franciszek Kampka

Szkoła Główna Gospodarstwa Wiejskiego w Warszawie
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4564-514X

Abstract

Studying the family from an ecological perspective allows taking into account both the internal relations between family members and the environment, i.e. the changing social conditions in which the family functions. The activities of state institutions and cultural and economic changes affect the family and require it to adapt to new circumstances. The literature review and the data analysis confirm that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted or intensified many problems concerning the relationship between the family and the labour market. The first of these is the loss of work or financial stability, which has been experienced in a particular way by the poorest strata of society, often living on casual labour and by young people employed on so-called 'junk' contracts. This situation results in not only pauperisation but also a loss of a sense of empowerment and an identity crisis. The second group of problems is related to the need for isolation and remote working and the reconciliation of family life with work and remote teaching. Personal effects include conflict, violence and mental deterioration. Finally, the global impact is an exacerbation of existing social inequalities. The article discusses the concept presented by Pope Francis, who sees the crisis and the pandemic as an alarm bell and an opportunity to seek far-reaching solutions. The urgent task is to develop conditions that ensure work and just wages. One idea attracting increasing interest is the concept of a basic income (discussed, for example, in the work of Guy Standing). What consequences would the adoption of such solutions have for the family? What changes are needed to make it viable?

Keywords:

family, COVID-19, labour market, basic income, education