The homeless population: communication and (dis)information in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to identify meanings produced by communication directed at the homeless population during the Covid-19 pandemic in Belo Horizonte. Forty-eight interviews with homeless people, Brazilian National Health System and Brazilian National Social Assistance System managers and workers, and representatives of the Pastoral Ministry for the Homeless and Public Defender’s Office were analyzed using content analysis. The results and discussion are structured around five core themes: the pandemic and its onset; closure of the city and the consequences for homeless people; disinformation and reproduction of stigmas; disinformation and vaccination; and the infodemic. The results suggest that communication related to the pandemic was seen as a minor factor in public planning that negatively impacted coping with the disease. The findings highlight the importance of identifying and listening to vulnerable groups and promoting inclusive and dialogical public communication strategies tailored to their specific needs.