Overcoming Challenges in COVID-19 Vaccination among Ethnic Minority Groups in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Exploration

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the barriers affecting COVID-19 vaccine uptake among ethnic minorities and to propose strategies to strengthen government initiatives for inclusive vaccination. Grounded in social constructivism, this qualitative study was conducted in the greater Sylhet Division, where many ethnic communities live. Using purposive sampling, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 49 participants, including ethnic men and women, community leaders, and healthcare providers. Two focus group discussions (FGDs) were also conducted to ensure data validation, and the results were analyzed using thematic analysis, which revealed several factors, such as free vaccinations, media, close community-knit healthcare centers, informal communication that positively influenced vaccine uptake, such as awareness campaigns, informal communication, media involvement, and free vaccine availability. However, socio-economic and technological barriers pose significant challenges, including misconceptions about vaccines, limited access to technology, long distances to vaccination centers, inconvenient service hours, and reliance on traditional medicine. To promote inclusive vaccination, the study recommends establishing localized vaccine camps, improving technological infrastructure such as the Internet and network access, enhancing communication strategies, providing special services for women, the elderly and disabled individuals, and ensuring a reliable vaccine supply. Future researchers could apply longitudinal studies, including a lager study area and broader range of participants to address the missing perspectives in the current study.