SME resilience

The COVID 19 pandemic will have a strong effect on labour markets worldwide. Especially in developing economies, where more than 70% of the workforce is in self-employment or works in micro, and small enterprises. Most MSMEs in developing countries, the smallest often run by women, operate in saturated sectors in the informal economy and most lack social protection. MSMEs will therefore be the first to suffer devastating consequences of the economic downturn. Re-starting the economy and creating jobs will be key once the immediate health crisis is over.