Masses are migrating through spatial spheres for various purposes during their lifetime. The situation caused by Covid-19 pandemic distinctly identifies multiple variations in migration and changes of public space. Explicitly, throughout this pandemic, Colombo district residents migrated back to their rural villages. So, shifting population dynamics and spatial variations changed parallel with the pandemic.
This study aims to scrutinize both demographic and political analysis of the changes regarding the pandemic. Especially, with reference to the fact, people who desired to migrate from the periphery (rural) to core (urban), return back to the periphery with this pandemic circumstances. Also, examine the changes and modus operandi on public space. A mixed methodology, both qualitative (online questionnaire and in-depth interviews) and quantitative data sources were used while
This research context aims to examine both demographic and political analysis of the changing migration patterns that happened, when the same people who desired to migrate from the periphery(rural) to the core(urban) returned back to the periphery with the pandemic circumstances. Also, what are the changes and challenges faced by public spheres.
Table of Contents
1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Research Objectives
4. Methodology
5. Discussion & Findings
6. Conclusion
7. Reference
Research Goals and Key Themes
This study investigates the shifts in internal migration patterns in Sri Lanka during the Covid-19 pandemic, specifically focusing on the movement of residents from the Colombo district back to rural areas. It aims to analyze the socio-economic and demographic factors driving this migration, the resulting challenges for public space, and the conflicts that emerged between urban migrants and rural villagers.
- Internal migration dynamics (core to periphery) during the pandemic
- Transformation and usage of public spaces under lockdown conditions
- Socio-economic impacts on migrants and rural host communities
- Conflict resolution and governance during health crises
- Public health response and vaccination accessibility
Excerpt from the Book
Discussion & Findings
Internal migrants have moved from rural villages to urban areas for diverse factors such as job opportunities, job security and higher wages. In this research sample, most migrants had sufficient economic stability and good living conditions.
With the pandemic, the majority of migrants moved back to the rural villages, who have good living conditions and economic capacity. During the pandemic, neighbors have found creative ways to stay connected and combat isolation by communicating across balconies or driveways (Siossian, 2020). Actually, they wanted to choose a temporary place for surviving during the pandemic period. The study clearly identifies that situation. As an example, one migrant is living in Havelock City Residence, who is a director in the audit company.
I’m living in the Havelock city residence with my wife and two children. I’m working as a director and my wife is an Accountant. So, before the pandemic our elder son was cared for by a servant and the little child was cared for in a day care center. But during the pandemic period we couldn't mix with other people and especially with our neighbors. We had get-together before the pandemic period, parties and functions in hotels, clubs and various places. However with the pandemic period some of our neighbors and friends organized various functions but we needed to move asap to our rural village and protect our children and our lives.
Summary of Chapters
Abstract: Provides an overview of the pandemic-induced reverse migration from urban to rural areas and the subsequent social and economic challenges encountered.
Introduction: Explains the global context of migration and the specific shifts observed in Sri Lanka as a response to the Covid-19 safety concerns.
Research Objectives: Outlines the core aim of understanding why urban residents returned to the periphery and how this movement impacted public spheres.
Methodology: Details the mixed-methods approach, combining online questionnaires and in-depth interviews with both migrants and rural residents.
Discussion & Findings: Analyzes survey data regarding migration drivers, vaccination accessibility, and the social tensions between migrants and local villagers.
Conclusion: Summarizes the study’s findings and suggests policy improvements for managing similar crises in the future.
Reference: Lists the academic sources and data foundations used throughout the research.
Keywords
Covid-19, Public Space, Internal Migration, Colombo District, Rural Periphery, Pandemic, Social Conflict, Urbanization, Lockdown, Vaccination, Socio-economic Stability, Mixed Methodology, Migration Patterns, Health Regulations, Crisis Management
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research?
The research focuses on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on internal migration patterns in Sri Lanka, specifically analyzing how urban residents moved back to their rural villages and the resulting social and spatial implications.
What are the central themes discussed in the work?
The work covers themes such as pandemic-induced population shifts, the vulnerability of public spaces during lockdowns, socio-economic factors influencing migration, and the resulting community conflicts.
What is the core research objective?
The core objective is to analyze the demographic and political reasons for the return migration from the core (urban) to the periphery (rural) and to examine the challenges that public spaces and migrant populations faced during the pandemic.
Which scientific methodology was applied?
The author employed a mixed methodology, utilizing both quantitative data from online questionnaires and qualitative insights from in-depth telephone interviews, supported by SPSS and Microsoft Excel analysis.
What is covered in the main body of the work?
The main body examines the drivers of migration, the clash between migrants and villagers, the role of local authorities, and the relationship between public space usage and vaccination methods during the pandemic.
How would you characterize this paper with keywords?
This paper is characterized by terms like internal migration, Covid-19, public space, socio-economic impact, rural-urban dynamics, and crisis governance.
Why did urban residents choose to return to their rural villages?
Many urban dwellers, despite having good economic stability, moved to rural villages for safety reasons, fearing that urban public spaces were unsafe and high-risk environments during the height of the pandemic.
Did the government play a significant role in this migration?
Yes, the study highlights how government-imposed lockdown restrictions, surveillance, and police checkpoints influenced the movement of people and the tension regarding whether migrants had proper legal permissions for their travel.
What conflict arose between migrants and the rural population?
Migrants were often viewed as potential Covid-19 "spreaders" by rural villagers, leading to social friction, blame, and in some cases, the interference of health and police authorities in the daily lives of the migrants.
- Quote paper
- Sachini Geethanjalee (Author), 2021, Covid-19 and Public Space. Migration Patterns and Public Space Norms, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1170710
