Widely agreed upon as the first settlers of New Zealand, the Māori face disproportionate levels of poverty and other social challenges compared to the population of European descent. As a result, the Māori are victims of racial discrimination, overrepresentation in prison and underrepresentation in education and employment. However, attitudes are changing and measures have been introduced to promote culture and reduce poverty amongst the Māori.
The History of Discrimination and Root of Māori Poverty
Landing approximately between “1200AD and 1300AD,” the first settlers of New Zealand, ancestors of the Māori, established a small hunter-gatherer society known for its rich cultural traditions and expert warfare. Four hundred years later, in 1642, the Europeans reached the southern shores and by 1840, New Zealand fell under British Colonial control. In the same year, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, determining land ownership rights; however, few Māori had the authority to contribute and distribution was unequal, leaving the Māori with insufficient reserves. The Māori have yet to recover these promised lands. Many argue that “this colonial history and subsequent structural racism has caused high rates of poverty among Māori.”
Māori and Other Races’ Levels of Poverty
While all nationalities face poverty in New Zealand, the rates are not proportionate. This is starkly apparent in recorded child poverty rates, with an average of 10.3% of all children living in households experiencing material hardship. However, rates reach 18.8% for Māori children, almost double the average. The impacts of these inequalities are undeniable, leading to “poorer health, higher death rates,” and overrepresentation in the prison population.
Causes of Poverty
An explanation for ongoing poverty among the Māori is the system of inheritance, whereby each generation is born into the poverty of their parents. Many view poverty as a “generational curse,” as are the words of Māhera Maihi and feel as though they were “rarely a priority for [their] parents.” Another explanation is that Maori face discrimination in all areas of life.
However, its occurrence in the workplace severely impacts an individual’s or family’s economic situation. Whether discrimination prevents one from acquiring a job or within the job itself, impacts on economic attainment are undeniable. The good news is that this issue is being addressed. The unemployment rate for Māori is now 5.5%, down from 7.8% in 2021-22. However, there is still much room for improvement as the unemployment rate among Europeans, including first and subsequent generations, has remained low at 2.8% in 2023.
Effects of Poverty
The impact of poverty on the Maori community extends far beyond economic constraints, delving into critical aspects of health, education and even crime rates. Numerous studies have underscored a clear and “documented association between experienced racial discrimination and poor health.” Those “growing up in poverty have two to three times worth of health outcomes” compared to those who did not, including both “higher rates of infection and trauma.”
Education, often hailed as a pathway to breaking the cycle of poverty, becomes an uphill struggle for Maori students. They “spend less time in the education system and do less well in it than non-Māori students as a group.” This disparity persists throughout the early and later years of education but becomes even more pronounced in higher education. Despite comprising 17.3% of the population, Māori representation in universities is only 13%, reflecting the systemic barriers hindering community educational attainment.
The effects of poverty among the Maori are not confined to health and education; they spill over into the realm of crime. Alarming statistics reveal that Maori individuals, burdened by poverty, make up a disproportionately high percentage of crime victims. They represent 37% of crime victims, with an incident rate of 61.89 offenses for every 100 adults, despite constituting only 17% of the population.
This overrepresentation is particularly pronounced among Maori women, who face an incidence rate of 59 offenses per 100 adults. The repercussions of poverty are glaringly evident within the criminal justice system, with Maori individuals comprising 50% of all persons in prisons. This disturbing statistic is compounded by the fact that Maori women constitute around 60% of the female prison population.
What Is Being Done
Although the challenges posed by poverty among the Māori people are considerable, measures are being implemented to overcome these. A “Whanau-centred program has had a positive effect in reducing child poverty among Māori,” demonstrating how progress occurs when it is compatible with the culture and community framework. Furthermore, there are plans to not only “deliver more housing, but [also] placing a huge focus on repairs of Māori-owned homes to increase the standard of living for Māori.” Around $30 million will be allocated to ensure these plans succeed, aiming to provide 1000 homes.
To achieve long-term, conscious progress, it is paramount that this change is not just legislative or economic but also a change of attitudes. The Māori have faced centuries of racial discrimination, which has seen an erasure of their culture from the local environment. When New Zealand was colonized, British imports replaced original place names. However, some original place names have recently been honored alongside the English. There has been an increase in the “revitalization of Te Reo Māori” in the last few years and with it comes an increasing appreciation and respect for Māori culture.
Conclusion
Having faced centuries of discrimination, the Māori are disproportionately affected by poverty. These impacts span all areas of life and prove nearly impossible to break away from. Although the threat of poverty is considerable, there has been an increased effort in recent years to reduce this suffering.
– Chloe Thomas
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Facts About Poverty Among the Māori
The History of Discrimination and Root of Māori Poverty
Landing approximately between “1200AD and 1300AD,” the first settlers of New Zealand, ancestors of the Māori, established a small hunter-gatherer society known for its rich cultural traditions and expert warfare. Four hundred years later, in 1642, the Europeans reached the southern shores and by 1840, New Zealand fell under British Colonial control. In the same year, the Treaty of Waitangi was signed, determining land ownership rights; however, few Māori had the authority to contribute and distribution was unequal, leaving the Māori with insufficient reserves. The Māori have yet to recover these promised lands. Many argue that “this colonial history and subsequent structural racism has caused high rates of poverty among Māori.”
Māori and Other Races’ Levels of Poverty
While all nationalities face poverty in New Zealand, the rates are not proportionate. This is starkly apparent in recorded child poverty rates, with an average of 10.3% of all children living in households experiencing material hardship. However, rates reach 18.8% for Māori children, almost double the average. The impacts of these inequalities are undeniable, leading to “poorer health, higher death rates,” and overrepresentation in the prison population.
Causes of Poverty
An explanation for ongoing poverty among the Māori is the system of inheritance, whereby each generation is born into the poverty of their parents. Many view poverty as a “generational curse,” as are the words of Māhera Maihi and feel as though they were “rarely a priority for [their] parents.” Another explanation is that Maori face discrimination in all areas of life.
However, its occurrence in the workplace severely impacts an individual’s or family’s economic situation. Whether discrimination prevents one from acquiring a job or within the job itself, impacts on economic attainment are undeniable. The good news is that this issue is being addressed. The unemployment rate for Māori is now 5.5%, down from 7.8% in 2021-22. However, there is still much room for improvement as the unemployment rate among Europeans, including first and subsequent generations, has remained low at 2.8% in 2023.
Effects of Poverty
The impact of poverty on the Maori community extends far beyond economic constraints, delving into critical aspects of health, education and even crime rates. Numerous studies have underscored a clear and “documented association between experienced racial discrimination and poor health.” Those “growing up in poverty have two to three times worth of health outcomes” compared to those who did not, including both “higher rates of infection and trauma.”
Education, often hailed as a pathway to breaking the cycle of poverty, becomes an uphill struggle for Maori students. They “spend less time in the education system and do less well in it than non-Māori students as a group.” This disparity persists throughout the early and later years of education but becomes even more pronounced in higher education. Despite comprising 17.3% of the population, Māori representation in universities is only 13%, reflecting the systemic barriers hindering community educational attainment.
The effects of poverty among the Maori are not confined to health and education; they spill over into the realm of crime. Alarming statistics reveal that Maori individuals, burdened by poverty, make up a disproportionately high percentage of crime victims. They represent 37% of crime victims, with an incident rate of 61.89 offenses for every 100 adults, despite constituting only 17% of the population.
This overrepresentation is particularly pronounced among Maori women, who face an incidence rate of 59 offenses per 100 adults. The repercussions of poverty are glaringly evident within the criminal justice system, with Maori individuals comprising 50% of all persons in prisons. This disturbing statistic is compounded by the fact that Maori women constitute around 60% of the female prison population.
What Is Being Done
Although the challenges posed by poverty among the Māori people are considerable, measures are being implemented to overcome these. A “Whanau-centred program has had a positive effect in reducing child poverty among Māori,” demonstrating how progress occurs when it is compatible with the culture and community framework. Furthermore, there are plans to not only “deliver more housing, but [also] placing a huge focus on repairs of Māori-owned homes to increase the standard of living for Māori.” Around $30 million will be allocated to ensure these plans succeed, aiming to provide 1000 homes.
To achieve long-term, conscious progress, it is paramount that this change is not just legislative or economic but also a change of attitudes. The Māori have faced centuries of racial discrimination, which has seen an erasure of their culture from the local environment. When New Zealand was colonized, British imports replaced original place names. However, some original place names have recently been honored alongside the English. There has been an increase in the “revitalization of Te Reo Māori” in the last few years and with it comes an increasing appreciation and respect for Māori culture.
Conclusion
Having faced centuries of discrimination, the Māori are disproportionately affected by poverty. These impacts span all areas of life and prove nearly impossible to break away from. Although the threat of poverty is considerable, there has been an increased effort in recent years to reduce this suffering.
– Chloe Thomas
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Combating HIV/AIDS in Togo
Attitudes Surrounding HIV/AIDS in Togo
There are a multitude of sociocultural barriers that stigmatize and discriminate against people living with HIV/AIDS in Togo. Between 2015 and 2020 the prevalence of discriminatory attitudes toward people living with HIV/AIDS was reported as the highest in West Africa out of all of the sub-Saharan African regions. Although the law in Togo currently prohibits discrimination against persons with HIV/AIDS and mandates the National Council for the Fight against AIDS (CNLS) to use active measures to prevent discrimination, affected individuals are still often subject to prejudice and mistreatment by their peers.
Reported cases of family abandonment can be attributed to the widespread perception that HIV/AIDS is a religious punishment for homosexuality. This perspective leads to the worry of severely tarnishing a family’s image in society. Humiliation and fear that come with discrimination play large roles in deterring affected individuals from tests and treatment.
Seeking Solutions: American Assistance and Aid
The United States established diplomatic relations with Togo in 1960 and has been active in maintaining good relations since then. Although the U.S. has been involved in efforts to combat HIV/AIDS since the mid-1980s, it has spent close to $50 million in to fight and treat HIV/AIDs in Togo. This has led to a significant increase in testing and greater accessibility to antiretroviral treatments.
Additionally, as a collaborative effort with domestic groups, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) hopes to end AIDS by the target year of 2030. They intend to fund and provide resources to the Ending AIDS project. This project aims to enhance HIV prevention, care and treatment services by engaging existing networks with local partners. Adding associates such as ministries of health and faith-based organizations can build upon trust and ensure lasting change.
The work of the U.S. as a whole continues to be vital in relieving the pressure on Togo. Work is ongoing to help solve the persistent worldwide public health issue in HIV/AIDS.
International Intervention: The Global Fund
In the fight for health, there is an international private-public partnership designed to accelerate the defeat of AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria throughout the world. The Global Fund historically allocates funding to eligible countries every three years. Notably, it has allocated a total of $44.52 million toward ending HIV/AIDs in Togo for the years 2023-2025.
The Global Fund has been providing funding to Togo since 2014 and has been responsible for yielding positive results. For example, 1,828 infants have been tested for HIV. Additionally, 680,173 young people aged 10-24 had access to comprehensive sexuality education and/or life skills-based education in or out of schools in 2022.
Continued Progress
Although HIV/AIDS in Togo remains one of the leading health threats throughout the nation, the last 10 years has seen a steady decrease in cases. There is evidence of a decline with a drop of 2.5% to 1.9% with respect to the Togolese population aged between 15-49 with HIV from 2015 to 2021.
Global funding and government initiatives have been largely successful in increasing accessibility to HIV tests. According to The Global Fund, as of 2022, 33,000 HIV tests were taken by priority and key Togolese populations. Additionally, 720,000 people were reached with HIV prevention services. Additionally, 85% of the people living with HIV/AIDs in Togo knew their status – a 25% increase from 60% in 2015. Furthermore, of the estimated 69% of people in Togo who knew their HIV status in 2019, 96% of them were on antiretroviral therapy.
Such progress can be accredited to factors like global and local efforts taking place to overcome discrimination and decrease the rate of HIV/AIDS in Togo. If efforts continue, they will contribute vastly to defeating the persistence of the disease.
– Arabella Wood-Collins
Photo: Pixabay
Mental Health Challenges in Gabon
The pressures of modernity are real, as traditional values do not mix with the need for progress. For many, the struggle to find an equilibrium between the familiar echoes of cultural heritage and the ever-changing demands of the present creates a unique set of stressors. The forces that drive societal evolution — the surge of technology, the pursuit of economic prosperity and the appeal of a sophisticated lifestyle — become catalysts for mental health concerns.
Furthermore, urbanization deepens the complexity of mental health challenges in Gabon by eroding communal bonds. In a city where the pace of life often outstrips the time available for social connections, feelings of isolation can intensify. The once-strong support networks rooted in communal living may break down as the cityscape reshapes dynamics between residents, contributing to a sense of separation that becomes a burden for many.
Challenges of Mental Health That Undermine Solutions
Access to mental health services remains a significant issue, particularly in rural areas where resources are scarce, adding to the burden for those in need. Traditional beliefs, deeply rooted in Gabonese culture, come into conflict with modern perspectives on mental health, delaying necessary interventions. Economic strain, youth pressures and the disruptive effects of urbanization further compound the challenges, creating complexities for mental health challenges in Gabon. These challenges pose a tough barrier when seeking solutions. Bridging the urban-rural divide, dismantling cultural stigmas and fostering mental health awareness requires a comprehensive approach. As Gabon strives for progress, addressing the layers of mental health challenges becomes critical to ensure the well-being of its residents.
Mental Health Challenges From Rural Gabon
Beyond the pulsating urban heartbeat of Libreville, rural Gabon tells a story of unique mental health challenges. In these remote corners, the issue of unaddressed mental health issues weighs heavily on residents. The absence of readily available professionals, coupled with insufficient awareness about mental health, fosters an environment where struggles often go unnoticed. The modern standard of mental well-being becomes one of perseverance rather than active support, contributing to a cycle of silent suffering.
A Holistic Solution
Breaking down deeply rooted cultural stigmas surrounding mental health becomes vital in fostering an environment where individuals feel strong enough to seek help without fear of judgment. Educational campaigns aimed at dismissing misinformation, conducted at both community and national levels, can play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions and normalizing conversations about mental health.
Establishing accessible mental health services involves increasing the number of available mental health professionals and locating services to reach both urban and rural areas. Telehealth solutions, community outreach programs and partnerships with local organizations can extend the reach of mental health services. This will ensure that every Gabonese citizen, regardless of their geographical location, has access to the support they need.
Conclusion
According to a Gabonese proverb, “Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it entirely.” This ancient wisdom holds a contemporary truth—addressing mental health in Gabon requires a collective embrace of understanding, support and empathy. As the nation paints its future on the canvas of progress, let it recognize the importance of nurturing the minds that shape its destiny.
– Mahima Bhat
Photo: Flickr
Innovations in Poverty Eradication in El Salvador
While poverty rates have not yet recovered to pre-pandemic levels, the economic growth has helped gradual progress with the most recent national rate settling at 27.5%. El Salvador made global headlines in 2021 by becoming the first and only nation to make bitcoin legal tender and presented ambitious plans surrounding the anticipated economic and commercial impacts. While progress has been slower than initially suggested, the country has still experienced economic growth and investment. This momentum has led to innovations in poverty eradication in El Salvador through digital transformation, geothermal energy and health care.
Digital Transformation
During Bitcoin’s launch as legal tender, the El Salvadoran government claimed that digital banking would improve accessibility to a larger portion of the population. Still, the adoption of digital banking has been slow, partly due to the lack of digital literacy. The government recognizes the challenges in digital literacy and produced the 2020-2030 Digital Agenda which identifies opportunities in digital transformation, particularly in innovation, education and competitiveness.
The Digital Economy for Latin America (DE4LAC) initiative is a part of the World Bank that aims to identify challenges and opportunities in the region. The initiative conducted a diagnostic in 2021 that provides further recommendations on improvement aligning with the government’s agenda. The increased focus on digital transformation received a boost in progress through Google entering an agreement with the nation in 2023. This partnership aims to drive innovation in government technology.
The public and private investments in digital transformation are continuing to create opportunities to boost the economy, create jobs and improve digital literacy as integral innovations in poverty eradication in El Salvador
Geothermal Energy
El Salvador has two geothermal energy plants that supply more than 25% of the nation’s electricity. The country’s innovation and commitment to this form of renewable energy has drawn support from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) which has provided technical guidance and funding for training facilities in the country. The state-owned company LaGeo owns both the Berlin and Ahuachapán plants and through its initiatives, it helps impoverished women by using geothermal energy to create and fuel their businesses and generate their income.
In addition to the publicly funded programs, Volcano Energy and Luxor Technology Corporation created a Bitcoin mining operation using the country’s natural resources. The 2023 agreement pledges that the companies will send 23% of their proceeds back to the El Salvadoran government. The increase in geothermal output is another example of innovations in poverty eradication in El Salvador and will make electricity more accessible to vulnerable populations, as well as elicit further financial support from the private and public sectors as the world continues to prioritize renewable energy sources.
Health Care
Health care accessibility is a challenge in El Salvador. The country achieved a major accomplishment in early 2023 as it reached 100% internet connectivity across hospitals. Overall accessibility is still an issue, but it is being addressed through the implementation of telemedicine. In September 2023, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) provided a $77 million grant to create a telemedicine network benefiting 4 million El Salvadorans. This advancement in health care accessibility and broader investment in wellness are key innovations in poverty eradication in El Salvador.
El Salvador continues to have a large percentage of its population living in poverty, but its prioritization and investment in innovative solutions across different areas continue to create opportunities and combat the challenges facing its people.
– William Galante
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Mental Health in Nigeria and Amaudo
Particularly in Nigeria and other low- to middle-class countries, there is an 80% treatment gap for those with mental illness. Only 20% of those struggling have received any treatment or care for their disorders. However, during the past nearly 40 years, Amaudo has grown and expanded to include many different projects and facilities (as listed below) for providing support to individuals struggling with mental health issues in Nigeria.
Amaudo Okopedi
Amaudo Okopedi (Amaudo One) is a rehabilitation facility accommodating up to 60 residents with 25 staff members. Coupled with poverty often comes homelessness. Within this community, residents coexist with each other and staff members, engaging in rehabilitation activities such as work, socializing, dining and receiving care simultaneously. In 2022, Amaudo hosted 40 residents at Amaudo Okopedi, with 20 individuals deemed eligible for discharge by December of the same year.
Amaudo Ntalakwu
Amaudo Ntalakwu, also known as Amaudo Two, functions as a facility that offers extended care for individuals with learning disabilities, those unable to reunite with their families and those requiring more intricate care. This facility provides prolonged treatment, education and flexibility to cater to the diverse needs of its residents. This facility is structured as a community with lots of smaller homes. In 2022, the organization housed 22 individuals, with 11 staff members supporting them.
Project Comfort
Project Comfort provides support to children with learning disabilities and other mental illnesses. This project employs fieldworkers who help train families and teachers to help provide care to students and children. In the year 2022, Project Comfort provided assistance to more than 95 students, offering a range of support services, including health care, counseling and help with school registration.
Community Mental Health Programme
The Amaudo Community Mental Health Programme (CMHP) has now grown to more than 70 clinics across four states in Nigeria. The program collaborates with the state government and other stakeholders to deliver easily accessible and affordable care to more than 5,000 individuals. The program also provides hundreds of placements annually to student nurses from across these states. Furthermore, it also “raises awareness, promotes good mental health and supports a growing network of Self Help Groups.”
Conclusion
Mental health is extremely important and it is crucial for our society to deepen its understanding of the consequences and risks associated with untreated mental health issues. The ongoing efforts of organizations like Amaudo are vital in sustaining treatments and programs that cater to the needs of those grappling with mental health challenges.
– Sophia Lovell
Photo: Pixabay
The World Bank’s New Gender Strategy: Female Leadership
While achieving gender equality is a continuous challenge for the worldwide community, the proposed World Bank Gender Strategy 2024-2030 attempts to “accelerate gender equality for a sustainable, resilient and inclusive future in alignment with the World Bank Evolution Roadmap.” The strategy actively promotes engagement with public and private sector clients, development partners, civil society and other critical stakeholders to achieve key objectives. Objectives include engaging women as community leaders and increasing opportunities for women, both crucial in addressing gender-specific challenges and promoting overall economic and social progress.
Empowering Women in Eastern and Southern Africa
The World Bank article, “Transforming the Lives of Women and Girls in Eastern and Southern Africa,” focuses on applying the institution’s new Gender Strategy in East and South Africa from 2016-2023 and exploring the future implications of this updated approach. In both Eastern and Southern Africa, women and girls are faced with extreme educational and economic disadvantages continuously. While essential strides for gender equality have been made within these regions, there is still far more to achieve.
“In AFE countries, only 26% of women had an account with a financial institution in FY17 and women are 24% less likely than men to have an account. Only 10% of women borrowed for their business or farm and business ownership is disproportionately skewed toward men; for instance, 70% of Rwanda’s businesses are owned by men.” Ultimately, the World Bank hopes to close these gender gaps and boost female empowerment by continuing to engage women as leaders and increase their opportunities within communities.
Addressing Gender Disparities
In response to the challenges of gender equality, specific projects have been launched by the World Bank’s Gender Strategy to increase women’s participation in entrepreneurial endeavors. One example is the Ethiopia Women Entrepreneurship Development Project, aiming to increase earnings and employment for women in targeted cities. The program guarantees participants access to finances and supports the development of their entrepreneurial and technical skills. It has provided more than 24,000 women with loans, leading to an average income increase of 68%.
The Intersection of Gender Equality and Global Health
The World Bank will continue establishing and developing its New Gender Strategy program because of the positive effects investing in women and girls can have within communities, as shown through a U.N. case study on investing in women’s leadership. The disproportionately high HIV infection rates among adolescent girls and young women, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, stem from intersecting factors such as unequal power dynamics, gender norms and limited access to health care and resources.
To combat this, empowering young women through providing education, access to resources and leadership opportunities is crucial for reducing HIV incidence and achieving global health and gender equality targets. “The world will not be able to defeat AIDS while reinforcing patriarchy. The only effective route map to ending AIDS and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals is a feminist route map,” quoted Winnie Byanyima, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Executive Director.
In Summary
The pursuit of gender equality remains an urgent global imperative, especially amid crises disproportionately impacting women and girls. The World Bank’s Gender Strategy 2024-2030 aims to accelerate equality and global improvements by empowering women as leaders within communities and achieving goals of economic gender equality. Initiatives like the Ethiopia Women Entrepreneurship Development Project exemplify targeted efforts to enhance women’s economic participation and empowerment, echoing the broader call to bridge gender gaps worldwide.
– Marisa Kole
Photo: Unsplash
2024 Wildfires in Chile
Geographic Challenge in Chile
Chile is victim to, not only wildfires but a great number of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic activity, droughts and floods. This is due to the country being located in the “Pacific Ring of Fire.” National Geographic reveals that 90% of all earthquakes across the globe occur on this path. Although these disasters often impact different locations, with wildfires occurring in forests and floods near rivers, the continuous risk of natural disasters has an enormous detrimental effect on the community, particularly minorities.
Wildfires in Chile: Poverty Cycle Intensified
These wildfires are not a one-off disaster. Some areas of Chile see an average of 3000-5000 fires each season. The constant risk of such disasters creates a poverty cycle that is very hard to escape. The 2024 wildfires in Chile destroyed up to 15,000 homes and left over 1600 people homeless. Many lost their livelihood alongside their homes as crops were turned to dust. These disasters have the power to drive people into poverty.
Those already living on a low income struggle to recover from such disasters altogether. Prevention Web suggests that “social exclusion” results in them being “overlooked during emergency responses.” Those suffering from poverty do not have the luxury of being able to afford insurance or put preventative measures in place. In previous incidents, education has been disrupted as schools are damaged by the blaze. Fires have also damaged water systems that ensure communities have safe drinking water.
Therefore, the impact of the fires extends further than the casualties and goes on to affect multiple poverty indicators.
Minority Vulnerability to Disasters
Minorities such as the elderly, women and children and those living with disabilities are disproportionately affected. For example, a single mother has been raising her 4-year-old son, Ignacio, who suffers from severe disabilities. Ignacio was born with cerebral palsy spastic diplegia and refractory epilepsy and severe dysphagia. The 2024 wildfires in Chile have taken everything from them. Most importantly Ignacio’s neurological wheelchair an “essential for her little one’s daily life.” Those in minority groups are often hit the hardest and must use limited resources to make up the loss which strengthens the grasp that poverty has on their lives.
Desafio Levantemos Chile
This charity helps communities in Chile get back on their feet after disasters like the wildfires. It has more than 700 projects across the country and has assisted in more than 24 emergencies. Usually one of the first on the ground after a disaster and has helped more than a million citizens in Chile in the 14 years it has been running. In the 2024 wildfires in Chile, the organization delivered hundreds of debris removal kits and thousands of liters of water. It acts as “the bridge between those who need help and those who want to help.”
Desafio Levantemos Chile has been a part of many initiatives to raise money for the 2024 wildfires in Chile. It created an online program with famous singers, actors and influencers, gathering more than 100,000 people online and raising more than 6 billion in total. The organization is also working with the Vina del Mar Festival to create the Arriba Vina campaign. This campaign aims to build 2000 emergency homes for those left homeless by the fires. This festival will take place from the 25th of Feb. to the 1st of March and host many artists. The charity is supporting those affected by the fires by using music and TV to raise awareness and funds.
Rebuilding Hope Amid Flames
In the wake of the devastating wildfires in Chile, the resilience of communities and the pivotal role of organizations like Desafio Levantemos Chile highlight a beacon of hope for recovery and rebuilding. Through innovative fundraising and direct aid, this charity is significantly aiding those affected, proving the power of solidarity in overcoming disaster. The collective efforts to support vulnerable groups and reconstruct homes underscore a commitment to not only restore what was lost but also to fortify the nation against future adversities.
– Liz Johnson
Photo: Unsplash
Energy Firms Tackling Poverty
Oil and Gas has made a few firms incredibly profitable, with the likes of ExxonMobil and Shell emerging as the long-run leaders of the industry, which has turned more than $4.4 trillion as of 2023. Their diverse investments in the green energy sector move towards sustainable economic growth in the 21st century. It indicates that these companies have a clear understanding of future advancement. However, their contributions to reducing poverty still need to be acknowledged. These are examples of how the cornerstones of the energy sector tackle poverty.
ExxonMobil
As part of ExxonMobil’s commitment to philanthropy, they have set up the ExxonMobil Foundation, a branch of the firm that focuses on social issues around the world and contributes to poverty reduction on a global scale. Since 2000, Exxon has donated more than $1.6 billion to education and training programs globally.
A teacher training program that spans more than 60 countries hopes to accelerate education progress in countries such as Senegal, Sierra Leone and South Africa, which will boost economic development in the future. Another example of the energy sector tackling poverty is donating its revenue to charities.
Shell
Since 2000, Shell Foundation has become the vessel of Shell’s philanthropic work. Operating independently, away from Shell, the foundation has developed a keen focus on economic development within Asia and Africa. Their methodology consists of providing small-scale businesses with affordable and clean energy, allowing them to afford lower costs and helping to achieve more commercial funding.
They have promoted sustainable economic growth by reducing more than 58.18 million tonnes of carbon emission, helping them leverage more than $8 billion and securing supporting more than jobs worldwide as of 2021.
The foundation’s work exemplifies how the energy sector tackles poverty by partnering with their business. They have been able to promote sustainable economic development within various impoverished countries. To escape the poverty cycle, this foundation allows for financial stability and further progression in living so that the future generation can afford higher education and training opportunities.
Conclusion
While it is hard to distinguish their philanthropic motive away from their branding of corporate social responsibility, it is encouraging to see that the cornerstones of the energy sector take on poverty. Whether through charitable donations or by incorporating other considerations into their business to improve economic conditions in impoverished countries, the efforts of energy firms have made a significant difference in livelihoods on a global scale.
– Matthew Fung
Photo: Flickr
Satellites: How Technology Is Combating Hunger
On the Ground
Established in 1978, South-South Cooperation is a technical collaboration among developing countries in the Global South to foster effective communication to share skills and knowledge. This partnership has proven essential in facilitating technology transfer and quicker emergency responses, especially in times of disaster.
South-South has significantly influenced the current battle against hunger by focusing on new technology and its practices. The networking has proven monumental to the region and its contribution to the global economy. More than half of the world’s growth in recent times can be attributed to Southern countries. South-South leads the exchange of knowledge and expertise through diverse programs and projects to address specific issues in each country or region.
In the Air
Above the clouds lies an intricate satellite system with a program name as extensive as the day. The Global Agricultural Conditions Remote Sensing Early Reporting System (CropWatch) is the global leader in all remote monitoring systems. CropWatch currently covers six major grain-producing regions and 46 grain-producing and exporting countries.
CropWatch technology plays a crucial role in addressing hunger in various South-South regions by monitoring rainfall, temperatures and vegetation health. This comprehensive approach aids local farmers and growers prepare for diverse conditions, including El Niño. Established in 1998, CropWatch has become indispensable worldwide, contributing significantly to research and intuition and promoting healthy and sustainable crop growth.
Working Together
South-South and CropWatch share a longstanding collaboration, frequently joining forces on various projects and workshops. Their concerted efforts in disseminating theoretical knowledge and practical know-how play a vital role in the global fight against hunger through technology. Thus far, 11 African and Asian countries have benefitted from the assistance provided by these two collaborative programs.
Together, the programs implement effective warning systems for pest and plant diseases and help with action plans in the event of either. In August 2023, in efforts to combat crop growth issues, both programs hosted a workshop assisting farmers in the central regions of Africa to learn the CropWatch systems to manage irrigation.
What’s Next
The future looks promising, with technology firmly embedded in our lives and advancing rapidly. Each update and breakthrough brings us closer to a lasting solution for global hunger. Thanks to initiatives such as CropWatch and South-South, the trajectory toward sustainable food is already a reality. Notably, the impact of technology on combating hunger is evident, with food insecurity declining. As of 2023, more than 160 countries around the globe downloaded information about CropWatch, recognizing its pivotal role in each nation’s development.
– Ryan Johnson
Photo: Pixabay
Why and How Poverty in Japan is Concealed
However, according to the 2022 Basic Survey on National Living published by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Japan’s poverty rate was 15.4%, the highest among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) members then. This raises the question: How does the country keep its poverty issue relatively concealed?
Historic Cause of Poverty in Japan
Modern Japanese poverty is often attributed to the “Lost Decade,” a period from 1991 to 2001 caused by a heightened Bank of Japan interest rate and characterized by real estate equity values lowering 70% through the decade. Before the “Lost Decade,” Japan was seen as the epitome of economic prosperity. It had an economic system called “keiretsu,” promoting entrepreneurship by forming a close-knit group of businesses able to invest in each other through the national bank.
Keiretsu allowed an entrepreneurial cushion for businesses to test new products before exporting them internationally, which, in turn, boosted the country’s economy. However, as the rapid growth of the Keiretsu system continued to succeed, the banks, also believing the government cushioned them, took riskier investments and eventually began to fail.
The Japanese government attempted to create new jobs by building new infrastructure. Similarly, the Bank of Japan boosted its monetary base by 60% with the quantitative easing program. However, deflation and fiscal deficit persisted, even as the nation exited the “Lost Decade.”
The Cultural Intersection With Poverty
Along with the economic growth, often called the “bubble economy,” there was a movement of “Nihonjinron,” the idea of defining the Japanese culture and identity. Though the concept of assuming a single, homogeneous Japanese identity was problematic, it provides a loose definition of Japanese sentiment at the time as prizing economic advancement, collectivism and a level of modernization.
However, after the “Lost Decade” and its ensuing insecurity, Japanese culture took on a “no excess” mentality, no longer prioritizing economic advancement by allowing for riskier odds. Economically, this lowered Japan’s place in the rapidly expanding world economy. Socially, this created a mindset centered around economic stability, thoroughly tabooing open poverty.
The manifestation of the nonacceptance of open poverty can be seen through Shinjuku Central Park in Tokyo. Though the park is filled with unhoused people at night, during the day, the individuals pack their belongings, often into remote, makeshift shelters or stay in government-funded homeless encampments. People living in poverty also do not typically ask for money and stay away from popular locations. This furthers the illusion of Japan’s lack of poverty.
Final Remark
With Japan’s rising poverty rate, the country has been implementing programs such as soup kitchens, public awareness campaigns, mental health support and the Housing First approach, which provides shelter to people without homes. However, as long as poverty in Japan remains invisible, it will not receive the aid it needs to help those in need to access just support.
– Aria Desai
Photo: Flickr