As Germany transitions from semi-lockdown measures, Berlin's service industry workers reveal the hidden toll of COVID-19's economic fallout. 🎤 Two locals share raw accounts of career uncertainty, evaporating income, and the emotional weight of rebuilding livelihoods in a changed world.
\"One month closed felt like losing years of progress,\" said a café manager, describing empty streets during peak restrictions. A bartender added: \"We're told to 'return to normal,' but tips are half what they were. Rent doesn't wait.\"
With over 200,000 global deaths and 3 million infections, the pandemic's financial shockwaves have hit frontline service workers hardest. Germany's €750 billion recovery package offers some relief, but many argue support overlooks small businesses and gig economy workers.
As Europe cautiously reopens, these stories underscore a universal truth: recovery isn't just about lifted restrictions—it's about healing communities. 🌍💔
