The Sri Lankan Diaspora in Singapore and the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences and Coping Strategies

Since the beginning of 2020, COVID-19 has swept the globe and severely impacted migrants around the world, leaving millions stranded by lockdown measures. Sri Lankan migrants living all over the world, including in developed OECD countries such as Singapore, have been no exception. This study looks at the experiences of the highly skilled Sri Lankan diaspora in Singapore during the pandemic from the theoretical perspective of coping and explores their coping strategies during these days of uncertainty. Based on a qualitative approach, the data collected shows that the diaspora utilized various coping strategies to deal with the discomfort, uncertainty, and fear of losing their loved ones in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, I show that despite these difficulties, they are satisfied and appreciate the support from the Singapore government.