Since 2010, APY-Solidarity in Action has actively worked to reduce poverty in El Salvador by addressing gender-based violence, supporting rural development and strengthening local governments and organizations. The Foundation for Cooperation APY-Solidarity in Action, a Spanish nonprofit organization, tackles the consequences of capitalism and poverty using feminist and ecological approaches. Established in 1992, the organization collaborates with various international governments, human rights organizations and local social groups. It focuses on educating and advocating for improved gender relations, disability rights, food security and rural development in multiple countries, including Colombia, Mozambique, Morocco, Peru, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador and Palestine.

According to its 2022 expense report, APY-Solidarity in Action allocated nearly 23% of its funds to El Salvador, the largest share received by any country it operates in. The organization’s dedication to El Salvador extends beyond financial distribution as it continues to develop projects seeking to minimize the country’s 27% poverty rate. Here are some ways the organization is working to reduce poverty in El Salvador:

Gender Equality

As an organization that defines itself as feminist, APY-Solidarity in Action has developed seven different projects addressing gender-based violence, child pregnancy and disabled women’s rights in El Salvador. By collaborating with various Salvadoran women’s groups, such as the Feminist Collective for Local Development and the Morazán Women’s Citizen Network, APY-Solidarity in Action has helped more than 200,000 vulnerable women, the majority of whom are disabled. In addition, the organization has invested more than €1.5 million toward addressing violence against women and providing nonsexist education to Salvadoran local governments and social workers in all 14 departments of El Salvador.

Rural Development

Alongside its work in gender equality, APY-Solidarity in Action also strives to strengthen food security, water, basic sanitation and agricultural production in six departments of El Salvador. Through its rural development projects that install wooden kitchens, provide organic fertilizers and emphasize food sovereignty, the organization has helped more than 4,600 women, 3,900 men and 210 families living in extreme poverty, emphasizing vulnerable populations including people with disabilities. Since 2011, APY-Solidarity in Action has allocated nearly €2 million toward developing the rural areas of El Salvador.

Strengthening Local Governments and Organizations

Another way APY-Solidarity in Action is working to reduce poverty in El Salvador is by supporting local governments and organizations. In 2010, the organization partnered with San Salvador’s Coordinator for Reconstruction and Development to educate and train Salvadoran youth in STD prevention, garment construction, screen printing and carpentry. In addition, they donated €332,472 to the construction of a recreational center meant to facilitate sports and social interactions for 1,000 young Salvadorans.

Looking Ahead

APY-Solidarity in Action continues to drive impactful change in El Salvador, focusing on crucial areas such as gender equality, rural development and community empowerment. Its targeted initiatives have reached thousands, emphasizing support for the most vulnerable groups. The organization plans to expand its efforts to reduce poverty and improve living conditions, highlighting the importance of sustained and comprehensive support in fostering a more equitable future for Salvadorans.

– Naima Rasheed

Naima is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

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