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3 Legislative Moves & Global Poverty in 2026

Global Poverty in 2026Poverty has emerged as one of the most challenging human rights issues and though it is improving in many regions, areas such as sub-Saharan Africa have seen declines. While it is traditionally believed that poverty naturally eases as a nation’s economy and GDP increase, this is not always the case. While an expanding economy does alleviate poverty, many other factors persist, such as education and discrimination. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), countries can adopt numerous legislative measures to address poverty, including land tenure rights, social protection systems and rural employment. Therefore, it is not only necessary for a government to expand markets and support investment, but also to pass legislation specifically aimed at improving the conditions that allow poverty to arise. Here is what some countries around the world are doing to legislate poverty eradication:

$16 Billion Rural Aid in Vietnam

Vietnam is creating legislation to lower global poverty in 2026. On December 11, 2025, the National Assembly passed a resolution to provide unprecedented funds for rural development until 2030. The move follows years of efforts since 2021, which by 2025 have already reduced the number of needy and near-poor households by 52.49%. In addition, the government built new housing in areas with ethnic minority populations and brought communes up to environmental safety standards.

The new resolution intends to follow in the successful footsteps of what came before. Notably, the program aims to reduce gender inequality, which is essential to improving the lives of impoverished individuals. According to the National Library of Medicine, there is a link between poverty and equity and therefore, addressing gender discrimination and inequality goes a long way.

Basic Income Grants in South Africa

In South Africa, the two richest individuals hold as much wealth as 50% of the population and the country has the highest Gini coefficient, a measure of social inequality, among all countries. This makes poverty a central issue that the government must confront. One political topic that has gained momentum recently is the implementation of basic income grants (BIGs).

Countries such as Namibia and India have introduced similar programs and shown increases in economic activity, nutrition levels, school attendance and even independence for certain groups, such as women. During COVID-19, South Africa carried out a BIG program and the results were effective. South Africa’s Department of Social Development (DSD) even reported a decrease in poverty at the Food Poverty Line, the lowest income possible to satisfy one’s nutritional needs. 

The DSD has ordered a report on the possibility of such a program in South Africa and concluded that its COVID-19 policy should be continued and perhaps even the workup to a full-scale BIG program. While critics worry that the program will crowd out other spending or create an unsustainable fiscal burden, a future program could transform the fight against poverty.

Bangladesh’s Family Card

Recently, Bangladesh launched a new program to transform welfare services. Launched on March 10, 2026, the program shifts the focus from individual to household, given that poverty is experienced “collectively.” Accordingly, each household will have one card issued in the name of the female head. 

The government has set ambitious goals, hoping to provide every citizen with a card by 2030. However, not everyone qualifies. Some example criteria include belonging to a marginalized group or being in a vulnerable household. This ensures that not just anybody receives these government benefits, only those who truly need them. 

Overall Picture

Governments around the world are discovering that they can’t just let market forces determine the outcome of poverty in their countries; they must enact specific legislation to address it. As Joseph Stiglitz noted: “Much of the inequality that exists today is a result of government policy.” This is exactly what Vietnam, South Africa and Bangladesh are doing, pushing for policies that help those who need it most, a sign that the world is beginning to confront global poverty in 2026.

– Ben Anderson

Ben is based in Madrid, Spain and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How E-Pathanshala Decreases Learning Poverty in India

Learning Poverty in IndiaAlthough we live in a modern, technology-driven age, education remains central to many Indians’ lives. From Jubilee Hills to rural villages, it plays a key role in addressing learning poverty. About 56%–70% of people in low- and middle-income countries, including India, are affected by learning poverty.

In response, the government of India introduced a broad educational platform, E-Pathanshala, to reduce inequality, lower learning poverty and address educational disparities. E-Pathanshala is not only available digitally in classrooms; it also encourages greater social responsibility in improving access to education. The initiative aims to reduce gender inequality and expand opportunities for women.

Education in India

India’s education system includes both public and private institutions that serve more than 250 million students across nearly 1.5 million schools, with 9.5 million teachers. The country recognizes 22 official languages under its Constitution. According to research, due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, around 320 million students in India were affected by school closures. While both boys and girls were impacted, evidence shows that girls faced a higher risk of long-term educational disruption.

E-Pathanshala: Digital Learning for Underprivileged Kids

E-Pathanshala is an educational platform developed in November 2015 for faculty, students and parents. It was a collaborative effort between the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the Central Institute of Educational Technology (CIET) to expand access to education and reduce learning poverty. Although launched in 2015, its foundation traces back to the establishment of NCERT in 1961. 

Created by the Government of India, NCERT was designed to support both central and state governments in advancing educational reform. Through E-Pathanshala, students can access a wide range of educational tools and materials without physical limitations, enabling more flexible and continuous learning. To ensure accessibility for faculty and students, E-Pathanshala is available in multiple languages, including English, Hindi and Urdu. 

Students can use this educational platform to study and prepare for exams. It serves as a digital bridge between traditional education and modern technology. It also promotes inclusive learning, places strong emphasis on women’s education and works to reduce learning poverty without bias.

India’s growing digital infrastructure further strengthens the platform’s reach. Many people can now access internet-based services thanks to initiatives such as the BharatNet program. This network extends more than 274,246 kilometers, improving connectivity even in rural areas. 

As a result, digital platforms like E-Pathanshala can reach more users. At the same time, broader e-governance systems continue to expand online access and service delivery nationwide.

Conclusion

Even in an age of rapid change, digital advancements and technological innovation, education remains a constant in people’s daily lives. Comprehensive digital tools like E-Pathanshala can further drive reform for women and reduce learning poverty. This platform stands out by promoting greater inclusion, placing strong emphasis on women’s education and helping reduce gender inequality.

– Shruti Reddy

Shruti is based in Cedarhurst, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project. 

Photo: Unsplash

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The Impact of Heifer International in Ethiopia

Heifer International in EthiopiaIn April 2026, Heifer International reported breakthroughs in youth-led soil health in Ethiopia. This is part of its 2026 initiative to integrate climate-smart technology with smallholder financing. Heifer International has transitioned from simply providing farms with more cows and livestock to high-tech, market-based systems in Ethiopia. 

This shift aims to address global poverty by targeting sustainable living incomes for impoverished people in rural areas. By 2030, its goal is to lift one million smallholder farmers in Ethiopia, 70% of whom are young people, into financial stability.

About Heifer International

In 1944, founder Dan West looked toward a new way to solve the global poverty crisis. After volunteering to feed those in need during the Spanish Civil War, West saw that this method of hunger prevention was not the only way. Given the short shelf life of food, it was clearly not a sustainable solution.

This is where the groundwork for Heifer International began. West identified a better way to address global poverty: providing rural residents with livestock to stabilize their access to food. This idea has shaped the organization’s current projects.

To this day, the organization works with local farms in the countries it serves to further develop their livestock and crops. This helps grow their economies through food. Supporting farming industries in rural communities provides a reliable food source.

It also connects these communities to the broader market. As these farms grow, so do the people working on them, setting the stage for a world of success for future generations. The impact of Heifer International is vast, spanning 19 countries throughout four different continents. 

It’s Work in Ethiopia

The organization is working directly with communities in Ethiopia to develop and strengthen a soil health program. This program, pioneered by Samson Alemu, works directly with young adults to provide them with a stable future. Its main objectives are to improve soil health and productivity, reduce acidity and increase nutrient absorption.

Alemu, a 26-year-old biotechnologist, is the co-founder and CEO of an Ethiopian start-up that developed eco-friendly biofertilizer and other solutions using microscopic bacteria to meet these goals. However, Alemu and his team did not yet have the resources to scale these solutions. This limited their impact on the country. 

To address this, in 2023, Alemu entered the Agriculture, Youth and Technology Africa Challenge Ethiopia (AYuTe). AYuTe is a competition hosted by Heifer International to support young inventors in the agricultural industry. After many rounds, Alemu won the $10,000 funding prize for his project.

By promoting regenerative practices such as composting and reduced tillage, the program boosts crop yields, strengthens food security and enhances livelihoods for smallholder farmers. The impact of Heifer International and its competition lies in the numbers. Because of the organization’s funding, Alemu and his team have been able to work with more than 56,000 smallholder farmers and partner with 96 local retailers. 

These retailers sell the biofertilizer directly to farmers. On top of this, their annual sales have increased from just three tons in 2022 to 94.5 tons in 2025.

Future Outlook

By 2026, Heifer International aims to strengthen rural resilience and alleviate poverty by helping farming households achieve a sustainable living income. In Ethiopia, this involves fostering Heifer Ethiopia’s agriculture-led development. This specifically includes improving the value chains for dairy, poultry and honey.

The impact of Heifer International on social development, specifically gender equity, is significant. It has announced that during 2026, it will elevate the voices of female producers and promote gender-equitable agricultural practices. As an organization, it hopes to continue growing and supporting its current projects. It also aims to expand beyond them.

Final Remarks

Heifer International’s work overall and specifically in Ethiopia, represents a sustainable path out of poverty. It does this by equipping farmers with modern tools, providing training and offering opportunities to pass on the gift. By fostering local leadership, like that of Alemu and creating sustainable food systems, Heifer is enabling Ethiopian communities to achieve self-reliance and secure livelihoods.

– Megan McGrath

Megan is based in Verona, NJ, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Charities Operating in Iran: Supporting Vulnerable Communities

Charities in IranDue to the ongoing conflict, sanctions and high inflation, Iran is currently experiencing severe humanitarian and economic hardship. These circumstances have put increased pressure on social welfare, housing and health care systems, making it difficult for many communities to meet their basic needs. Vulnerable populations are increasingly at risk, as instability persists, especially those with limited access to resources and support systems.

Alongside economic challenges, humanitarian needs have intensified as conflict-related disruption affects infrastructure, supply chains and access to vital services. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are vital in this situation as they help close gaps, provide emergency aid and support long-term recovery. Through focused humanitarian efforts and community-based support, these five charities operating in Iran are helping to address these issues. 

The Iranian Red Crescent Society

The largest humanitarian organization in the country, the Iranian Red Crescent Society, is essential to emergency response and relief operations. It operates a nationwide network of more than two million volunteers, enabling rapid response to crises such as earthquakes, floods and public health emergencies. In the current situation, the organization has expanded its efforts to support millions of people affected by conflict-related disruptions by providing essential supplies, shelter and urgent medical care.

It also runs more than 500 rehabilitation and health centers, providing ongoing care to vulnerable populations. Its nationwide presence allows it to reach vulnerable populations quickly, particularly in areas where infrastructure has been impacted. 

UNICEF Iran

UNICEF Iran prioritizes protecting children and providing basic services, especially in low-income and vulnerable communities. The organization has helped maintain Iran’s more than 95% childhood immunization rate, supporting millions of children through nationwide vaccination programs. It also helps improve access to education, particularly for marginalized and refugee children, reaching tens of thousands of students annually.

UNICEF’s nutrition and health initiatives provide critical support to families facing economic strain, helping prevent malnutrition and disease. These programs are essential in safeguarding child development during periods of instability. 

UNHCR Iran

Supporting displaced populations in Iran, particularly 3.5 million Afghan refugees and others impacted by regional instability, is a critical responsibility of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The organization provides access to health care, education and financial assistance to hundreds of thousands of refugees each year. Through its Amayesh registration system, many refugees are integrated into national services such as public schooling and primary health care.

UNHCR also distributes cash assistance and essential supplies to help families meet basic needs. Its work is vital in promoting stability and self-reliance among displaced populations amid ongoing regional instability.

The International Committee of the Red Cross

In Iran, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) provides humanitarian protection and assistance to vulnerable populations, especially those affected by conflict and displacement. The ICRC has provided 5,000 non-food items to several Iranians over the years. It works with medical facilities to improve access to essential treatment and supplies, particularly for vulnerable groups.

The organization also focuses on humanitarian protection, including supporting detainees and reconnecting families separated by conflict. Its neutrality allows it to operate effectively in complex and sensitive environments. 

The Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation

One of the most prominent domestic charities in Iran, the Imam Khomeini Relief Committee, focuses on social welfare and poverty alleviation. The foundation offers low-essential services, housing support and financial assistance to more than 4.5 million people as economic conditions deteriorate. The foundation prioritizes vulnerable groups, including women-headed households, orphans and older people.

It also offers employment and self-sufficiency programs to help individuals generate sustainable income. It plays a crucial role in helping communities that are experiencing increased hardship due to social and economic instability. 

Human Impact and the Role of Charities

Data and individual experiences both reflect the humanitarian impact of Iran’s ongoing instability. The Borgen Project spoke with an Iranian woman who now resides in Leith, Edinburgh, but requested to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. She explained how everyday life, especially for women, had already been shaped by economic hardship and limited opportunities since leaving Iran two years ago. 

She explained that these difficulties have been worsened by the current circumstances, with many families now facing greater uncertainty about their access to food, health care and financial security. These conditions are consistent with broader trends, as economic strain and conflict continue to impede vital services and place additional pressure on vulnerable groups. 

“Before, people were struggling, but now it feels like everything is collapsing at once,” she told The Borgen Project in an interview. “There is fear all the time. People are worried about safety, about losing their homes, about how they will survive. Everything is uncertain.” 

Her perspective emphasizes the growing importance of humanitarian organizations in meeting urgent needs. Charities frequently offer vital support when public services are overburdened, especially for those without a steady income or access to aid. 

This reflects the efforts of organizations that continue to provide emergency assistance, medical care and protection services, such as the Iranian Red Crescent Society, UNHCR and UNICEF. These organizations are crucial in helping communities maintain stability and access to basic resources as the demand for assistance grows. 

“In times like this, charities become a lifeline,” she said. “When people are forced from their homes or lose everything, they depend on this support just to get through each day.” 

A Path Forward Through Humanitarian Support 

As conditions across Iran continue to shift, the importance of humanitarian organizations has moved far beyond short-term intervention. These five charities operating in Iran provide not only support but also continuity in times when daily life has been disrupted. They are becoming increasingly central to how communities survive and rebuild in an environment shaped by instability and uncertainty. 

The existence of these charities signifies more than support for many impacted by conflict and financial hardship; it signals that help is still available even in the most challenging circumstances. Their work is part of a broader humanitarian endeavor to respond not only to immediate needs but also to the long-term realities facing vulnerable populations. 

As pressure on communities intensifies, the role of these charities in Iran becomes even more significant. Their ongoing efforts show that, despite substantial challenges, structured and persistent humanitarian action can lay the groundwork for recovery, resilience and a more stable future. 

 – Honey Regev

Honey is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Targeted EdTech and Education in Sierra Leone

Education in Sierra LeoneAs global education funding declines, millions of vulnerable children face an increased risk of dropping out of school. UNICEF reports that disruptions to education systems continue to affect access to learning worldwide, particularly in low-income countries where resources remain limited. These challenges contribute to a growing global learning crisis.

The Wi De Ya System

In Sierra Leone, digital education interventions are helping schools respond to these challenges. The Wi De Ya system uses real-time data to track attendance and engagement, with plans to build local capacity to support long-term maintenance. This approach allows educators to identify students at risk of dropping out and intervene before disengagement becomes permanent.

While data systems identify risk, human support plays a central role in improving outcomes. The Global Partnership for Education reports that financial and social assistance can improve school retention among vulnerable learners. Once students are identified as at risk, schools and partners can respond with tailored support. 

This may include school supplies, financial assistance or connections to social services. The World Bank notes that education investments are more effective when they focus on the most vulnerable populations, improving both efficiency and outcomes.

Addressing Barriers Beyond the Classroom

In Sierra Leone, barriers to education often extend beyond school environments. Many children in Sierra Leone face economic pressures that push them into work, limiting their ability to attend school. UNICEF reports that child labor remains a significant issue, highlighting the need for support for vulnerable children and their families.

A 12-year-old girl named Adama, featured in a UNICEF report, spends her days breaking rocks in a quarry instead of attending school. She explains that her family earns only about $2 a day, which is not enough to cover basic needs or education costs. Like many children in similar situations, she hopes to return to school but remains unable to do so due to economic pressures.

Data from these systems also helps educators better understand the challenges students face. Schools can respond with supportive measures rather than disciplinary action. Research supported by UNESCO shows that early warning systems identify students at risk of dropping out and enable targeted support strategies that improve retention and learning outcomes.

A Cost-Effective Response To Declining Funding

As education funding becomes more limited, scalable and efficient solutions are increasingly important. This approach offers a cost-effective model by focusing on early identification and targeted intervention. The Education Commission highlights the importance of investing in effective and equitable education systems to improve learning outcomes.

By reducing dropout rates, these systems also contribute to long-term economic stability. The World Bank links increased school retention to improved economic outcomes and poverty reduction. This model demonstrates how data-driven systems can support vulnerable students in resource-constrained settings.

– Isil Ertas Senturk

Isil is based in Oakville, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Bangladesh’s Family Card: A New Approach to Poverty Reduction

Bangladesh's Family CardBangladesh’s family card program is a new government initiative launched on March 10, 2026, designed to provide direct financial assistance and essential goods to low-income households. Developed by the Ministry of Social Welfare, the program is designed as a digital, database-driven system that identifies and supports vulnerable families through a single platform.

Unlike traditional welfare schemes that often focus on individuals, the government built this program on the principle that families are the core unit of development. This means that assistance is distributed at the household level, reflecting how economic hardship, food insecurity and health challenges are experienced collectively.

A Unified Social Protection System

One of the key features of the family card program is its role in unifying Bangladesh’s social protection system. In the past, welfare support was often delivered through multiple programs across different ministries, leading to duplication, inefficiencies and gaps in coverage. The program addresses this by integrating various forms of assistance, such as cash transfers and subsidized goods, into one system.

This centralized approach allows the government to maintain a single database of beneficiaries, improving coordination and ensuring that support reaches the intended households. The system also uses digital tools, including national ID integration and QR-enabled cards, to verify beneficiaries and track distribution. These features help streamline the delivery process and reduce administrative barriers. 

This makes it easier for families to access support without having to navigate multiple programs. Over time, the government aims to expand this model into a broader “Universal Social ID Card,” which could serve as a foundation for delivering a wide range of public services through a single, integrated platform. 

Who Benefits From the Program?

The family card program is designed to support economically vulnerable households across Bangladesh, particularly those with unstable incomes or limited access to basic resources. These include rural families, day laborers and households affected by rising living costs. Eligibility is determined through a structured selection process that uses a proxy means test (PMT) and door-to-door data collection. 

This approach evaluates factors such as income level, housing conditions and household size to identify those most in need. During the pilot phase, approximately 6,500 families across multiple districts were selected to receive benefits. The government plans to expand the program gradually, with a long-term goal of reaching up to 20 million families nationwide.

This phased rollout allows the program to test its systems and improve implementation while steadily increasing its reach. 

Delivering Direct Support

A defining feature of the family card program is its use of direct digital payments. Each enrolled household receives a monthly transfer, typically between $16.31 and $20.38, delivered through mobile financial services or bank accounts. This method reduces reliance on intermediaries and helps ensure that funds are delivered quickly and securely. 

Beneficiaries are notified digitally and in most cases, funds are deposited directly into their accounts without the need to visit government offices. In addition to financial assistance, the family card also provides access to subsidized essential goods such as rice, oil and lentils. By combining cash transfers with food support, the program helps households manage both income shortages and rising food prices.

The cards themselves feature modern elements such as QR codes and digital identification systems, enabling efficient verification and use across different services.

Potential Impact on Poverty

The family card program has the potential to significantly reduce poverty in Bangladesh by providing regular income support to vulnerable households. Regular cash transfers help families meet basic needs such as food, housing and health care, while also offering greater financial stability. This predictability is particularly important for households with irregular incomes, as it allows them to plan their spending and avoid falling deeper into poverty.

Furthermore, the combination of financial support and subsidized goods addresses both income and consumption challenges. By lowering the cost of essential items and increasing household purchasing power, the program supports household-level economic resilience. As the program expands toward its target of millions of families, it represents a large-scale effort to strengthen Bangladesh’s social safety net and improve living conditions for those most in need.

Looking Ahead

Bangladesh’s family card program reflects a broader shift toward digital governance and integrated social protection. By combining technology, centralized data and direct transfers, the initiative aims to create a more efficient and accessible support system. With plans to expand coverage nationwide and integrate additional services over time, the program could become a cornerstone of the country’s welfare infrastructure. 

Its emphasis on coordination and scalability positions it as a model for how developing countries can modernize social protection systems to better serve vulnerable populations. 

– Annie Hodgkinson

 Annie is based in Liverpool, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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International Development Projects in Québec

International Development Projects in QuébecQuébec is a French-speaking province of Canada with strong ties to the international Francophone community. In light of heavy budget cuts to international aid at the Canadian federal level, Québec has demonstrated the impact of subnational action and independently financed projects in international development.

Overseas Aid Budget Cuts

In late 2025, the Canadian federal government announced its annual budget. Over four financial years, the government pledged to reduce the international aid budget by $2.7 billion.

This cut followed a climate set by other G7 members, several of whom had already begun reducing overseas aid provisions. Before Canadian cuts had been announced, the gross G7 Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) budget was already projected to decrease by 28% on 2024 levels by 2026.

Canada had already fallen short of United Nations international aid budget targets, with ODA accounting for just 0.32% of Gross National Income (GNI). The U.N. had set the target at 0.7% of GNI.

The Québec Approach to International Assistance

While the ODA budget is overseen by the Canadian federal government, Québec has taken its own route when it comes to civil society action and international partnerships.

The international solidarity principle is a cornerstone of Québec’s ideological approach to development and represents Québécois singularity with respect to the overarching Canadian aid policy. Given its position in the global Francophony, a unique characteristic within Canada, Québec prioritizes its partnership with Francophone Africa. The province also highlights the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as central to its mission.

The growth of civil society movements aimed at providing international assistance led to the formation of a bloc organization, the Québec Association of International Cooperation Organizations (AQOCI). The association comprises more than 70 organizations located all over Québec and acts as a network to enable strategic cooperation and increase the combined influence of the member organizations.

Below are four examples of organizations and projects for international development spearheaded by Québec.

Québec Sans Frontières

Québec Sans Frontières (QSF), founded in 1995, is an organization that aims to mobilize the international solidarity concept by enabling young volunteers to support local initiatives in target areas, notably Francophone Africa, Latin America and the West Indies. As well as providing support to disadvantaged communities, QSF supervises internships for volunteers, allowing them to gain experience in the humanitarian sector.

Volunteers help underprivileged local communities to strengthen their existing capacities to respond to issues that may arise. The organization prioritizes environmental preservation and women’s rights.

Ingénieurs Sans Frontières Québec

Ingénieurs Sans Frontières Québec (ISFQ) is a Québec-based nonprofit organization whose aim is to harness Québécois expertise and innovation to deliver sustainably engineered infrastructure in underdeveloped communities.

The organization has delivered more than 55 infrastructure projects, including the construction of classrooms in Senegal and a college in Togo.

It is also upheld by the international solidarity principle and aims to amplify mutual learning between the engineers and the communities they serve.

Oxfam-Québec

Founded in 1973, Oxfam-Québec is the Québec branch of the international nonprofit Oxfam, working against the inequality it identifies as the root of poverty and discrimination.

Oxfam-Québec has directed several campaigns upholding women’s rights in nine countries across the world, supporting more than 450,000 women.

It has also supported a further 30,000 women in Bolivia in its campaign against gender-based violence.

International Climate Cooperation Program

Aside from local initiatives and international nonprofits, the Québécois government has also pioneered work in international development at the provincial level. The program, launched in 2016, is unique in that it is one of the first climate ventures taken at the subnational level.

The program has a budget of $34.5 million and supports projects in Francophone Africa and the West Indies aimed at reducing the effects of climate change.

The mission is underpinned by the recognition that climate change compounds poverty and reduces basic security, and draws upon the logic of a new kind of international climate diplomacy that Québec says requires subnational cooperation.

Looking Ahead

Despite a trend toward the reduction of overseas aid budgets in Canada and the wider G7, Québec has demonstrated the role of subnational leadership and the importance of an internationally minded civil society. Indeed, the province offers a model for non-state communities pursuing independent courses of action in international development.

– Phoebe Lang-Clapp

Phoebe is based in Montréal, Québec, Canada and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Village Health Workers Close the Immunization gap in Lesotho

Immunization gap in LesothoIn Lesotho’s mountain communities, a missed vaccine is often not just a missed appointment. It can result from distance, transport costs, difficult terrain or uncertainty about where services are available. That is what makes the immunization gap in Lesotho both a poverty issue and a health issue. During the Ministry of Health’s nationwide measles-rubella campaign in October 2025, village health workers helped reduce these barriers by going door-to-door. They directed parents to vaccination points and helped health teams reach children who might otherwise have been missed.

A Campaign Built Around Outreach

Lesotho began preparing early for the October 2025 campaign. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the national drive ran from Oct. 20–24, followed by mop-up efforts from Oct. 25–27 in low-coverage areas. The campaign was expected to reach 196,308 children ages 0–59 months through four interventions: measles-rubella vaccine oral polio vaccine, vitamin A and deworming tablets.

The WHO also said 85 participants joined training beforehand, including district health officials and representatives from the education and local government sectors. This campaign also built on earlier progress. According to the UNICEF Lesotho Annual Report 2024, measles-containing vaccine first-dose coverage rose from 84% in 2023 to 93% in 2024. The same report stated that UNICEF supported the administration of 12,564 measles-rubella vaccines in hard-to-reach areas during Africa Vaccination Week. It also highlighted media partnerships and outreach efforts to improve vaccine confidence. 

How Village Health Workers Closed the Gap

Lesotho’s immunization gap has narrowed because village health workers performed practical, local work that a central system alone could not. First, they went house-to-house. The WHO’s reporting from Qacha’s Nek stated that village health workers explained the importance of immunization directly to families and guided them to vaccination sites.

In places where households are scattered across steep terrain, door-to-door outreach helps families who might otherwise miss the campaign entirely. This approach is crucial for those who do not know where to go, when vaccinators will arrive or who cannot risk a difficult trip without clear information.

Second, they helped build trust. The WHO reported that in Mokhotlong, health teams used patient dialogue and accurate information to speak with parents who were initially hesitant about vaccination. Village health workers were central to that effort because they were known in their communities and could speak as trusted neighbors rather than as distant officials.

Third, they noticed who was missing. A Gavi VaccinesWork report described how a village health worker in Leribe realized that a mother’s children had not appeared at a temporary vaccination point and alerted nursing staff. That follow-up uncovered a deeper problem: the family had fallen behind on routine childhood vaccines because the mother could not afford the $1.50 medical booklet or the roughly $1.60 return fare to Motebang Hospital. The case showed how village health workers do more than spread information. They help health teams identify children whose absence is tied to poverty rather than refusal.

Why Poverty Keeps Children at a Distance

The Leribe case shows why the immunization gap in Lesotho is tied to poverty. According to the World Bank, Lesotho’s unemployment rate was at 30.1% in 2024 and about 45.7% of the population lived on less than $3.00 per day. In that context, even minor health-related costs can become real barriers to routine care. For families living that close to the edge, access is shaped not only by whether vaccines are available but by whether reaching them is affordable.

Partners Supported Local Action

Lesotho’s Ministry of Health led the campaign, but local efforts were strengthened by external support. Gavi, the WHO and UNICEF provided financial and technical support for planning, implementation and monitoring. UNICEF’s 2024 annual report also stated that it developed community-based health policies and standardized training toolkits for village health workers, helping strengthen care quality at the community level.

The campaign showed that inclusion matters. A December 2025 VaccinesWork report stated that Lesotho printed 400 braille information packets ahead of the campaign, the first time the country’s immunization system had made vaccine information available in braille. According to the same report, 110,733 children under 5 received the measles-rubella vaccine, polio drops, albendazole and vitamin A during the Oct. 20–24 campaign. 

This matters because closing the immunization gap in Lesotho is not only about delivering vaccines. It is also about making sure information reaches parents in forms they can use.

Final Remarks

Lesotho’s October 2025 campaign did not erase every structural barrier in a single week. The immunization gap in Lesotho is still shaped by poverty, geography and the limits of routine service delivery. But the campaign showed what progress looks like in practice: village health workers who know which households have young children, local chiefs opening their homes as vaccination sites and health teams that follow up when children do not appear. 

In mountain communities where exclusion can happen quietly, this kind of community-based effort makes health care more accessible to families who are most likely to be missed. If Lesotho continues investing in village health workers, outreach and inclusive communication, more children from low-income families will be far less likely to be left behind.

– Tom Basu

Tom is based in Buckinghamshire and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Rawpixel

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International Partnerships & Poverty Reduction Policy in Egypt

Poverty Reduction Policy in EgyptInternational diplomacy usually operates behind closed doors. However, it plays an invaluable role in shaping poverty-reduction strategies in nations, including Egypt. International partnerships frequently influence the funding, structure and sustainability of these efforts, while domestic ministries implement social protection programs and economic reforms.

Development initiatives with multilateral institutions and bilateral partners help align reform agendas with poverty reduction objectives, especially during periods of economic transition. The Borgen Project spoke with a senior Egyptian diplomat with direct experience in international development negotiations, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of his position. According to the diplomat, poverty reduction in Egypt depends not only on domestic policy choices but also on sustained international engagement.

“Egypt works closely with international partners such as the UNDP, JICA and USAID to support reform programs and strengthen social safety nets aimed at alleviating poverty,” the diplomat told The Borgen Project in an interview.

Diplomacy and Development Financing

International negotiations often determine how development financing supports poverty-focused reforms. Egypt has engaged with institutions such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during economic reform periods, particularly when implementing fiscal adjustments and structural reforms. These negotiations generally include commitments to protect vulnerable populations. 

Development financing packages often integrate social protection measures to help low-income households avoid the harsh economic shocks associated with inflation, subsidy reforms or currency adjustments. The diplomat emphasized that development discussions extend beyond budget allocations. “When we negotiate with international institutions, we are not only discussing fiscal targets. We are also discussing how to protect low-income households and ensure reform does not increase vulnerability,” they said. 

According to the World Bank, Egypt has expanded targeted social protection programs in recent years, including conditional cash transfer initiatives and food subsidy reforms designed to shield vulnerable populations during economic transitions.

UNDP and Institutional Reform

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) supports Egypt by strengthening governance systems and improving public service delivery. UNDP Egypt specifically focuses on inclusive growth and sustainable development frameworks. By improving administrative systems and strengthening monitoring mechanisms, UNDP-supported reforms enhance the efficiency and reach of social safety nets. 

These improvements ensure that poverty reduction programs better target low-income households. The diplomat explained that institutional reform plays a central role in poverty policy. “Effective poverty reduction depends on strong institutions. Through cooperation with the UNDP, Egypt has worked to modernize administrative systems that support social protection programs,” they said.

Bilateral Cooperation With Japan and the United States

Egypt’s diplomacy also includes partnerships with bilateral development agencies such as the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). JICA supports Egypt through infrastructure investment, vocational training and economic modernization projects. Workforce development initiatives increase employment opportunities, especially for youth and low-income workers. Such initiatives positively affect poverty reduction outcomes. 

USAID’s Egypt portfolio includes programs focused on economic growth, entrepreneurship, financial inclusion and education. By promoting small business development and strengthening local governance, USAID-supported initiatives aim to improve long-term economic stability. The diplomat described these partnerships as complementary to domestic reforms. 

“Our discussions with partners like Japan and the United States focus on aligning development cooperation with Egypt’s social protection and economic reform priorities,” they said. By mobilizing external expertise and financial resources, diplomatic engagement strengthens Egypt’s capacity to expand social safety nets and economic opportunity programs.

Poverty, Stability and Regional Implications

Poverty reduction and policy within Egypt carry broader regional implications. Economic vulnerability can increase social tensions, migration pressures and instability. International development partners often frame poverty reduction as both a humanitarian objective and a stabilizing strategy.

Research from international institutions indicates that countries experiencing high economic vulnerability face greater risks of social unrest and forced migration. Diplomatic cooperation, therefore, plays a preventative role by supporting reforms that reduce long-term instability. The diplomat noted that poverty policy frequently intersects with regional security considerations. 

They shared that “reducing poverty strengthens resilience at both the national and regional levels. Stable communities are less vulnerable to economic shocks and instability.” By integrating social protection with economic reform, international partnerships aim to balance fiscal sustainability with inclusive development.

Implementation Challenges

Despite progress, translating diplomatic agreements into effective domestic outcomes remains complex. Administrative capacity constraints, regional disparities and economic volatility continue to challenge implementation. International support can strengthen systems, but long-term poverty reduction depends on sustained political commitment and institutional development within Egypt itself.

The diplomat acknowledged these limitations. According to them, “Diplomacy can mobilize resources and technical expertise, but domestic implementation determines long-term impact.” Ensuring that social safety nets reach the most vulnerable households requires continued investment in data systems, targeting mechanisms and public service delivery.</span>

Looking Ahead

International partnerships continue to shape poverty-reduction policy in Egypt by influencing financing decisions, institutional reforms and program design. While domestic policy drives implementation, diplomacy plays a key role in mobilizing resources, aligning priorities and strengthening social safety nets. As Egypt navigates ongoing economic reform and regional uncertainty, sustained diplomatic engagement with multilateral and bilateral partners will remain central to reducing poverty and promoting inclusive growth.

– Hana Abulkheir

Hana is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Importance of Midwife Training Programs in Liberia

Midwife Training Programs in LiberiaLiberia has one of the world’s highest rates of maternal mortality. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently published a study conducted by researchers from 2018 to 2021 that determined a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 1,565 per 100,000 births during this period. This study also determined that there was a 5% regression during this time in maternal mortality. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) estimated differently, with an MMR of 854 per 100,000 births. While these estimates vary, all determine that Liberia has one of the highest MMR rates worldwide.

Maternal mortality, or the instance of a mother dying during or immediately after childbirth, occurs for different reasons. Researchers estimate that 75% of maternal deaths are the result of hemorrhages, severely high blood pressure, infections and unsafe abortion.

MMR statistics from neighboring countries illustrate just how high Liberia’s numbers are. Immediate neighbors’ MMRs range from Cote d’Ivoire’s at 399 per 100,000 births to Guinea’s 553 per 100,000 births.

Midwife Training Programs in Liberia

These statistics show that lowering maternal mortality rates in Liberia is possible. While the solution is multifactorial, growing and strengthening midwife training programs in Liberia is a pivotal part of the solution.

Midwives are medical professionals with differing levels of training who provide support to women through pregnancy, childbirth and in the early postpartum period. They work alongside obstetricians and gynecologists and provide personalized care to women. In Liberia, midwives would support pregnancy, delivery and postpartum, and would also help educate patients. Another key part of a midwife’s role in Liberia is educating patients on things like preventing unwanted pregnancies, personal care and HIV prevention.

Currently, Liberia has only 200 trained midwives. With 400 health facilities and a population of 4 million, 200 midwives account for a small fraction of the population. For reference, Côte d’Ivoire has 2,627.

Midwife training programs vary in length, but a prospective midwife can obtain a certificate in a minimum of 12 months in this region. To significantly reduce the MMR in Liberia, global health authorities are looking to maximize midwife training.

Given these numbers, solutions that expand access to care, particularly through trained midwives, are the clear focus of the World Health Organization (WHO) and its H6 partners.

The Schools

The Danish Midwives Association has partnered with several organizations such as the WHO and its H6 partners (UNAIDS, UNFPA, UNICEF, U.N. Women and the World Bank), to fund and clone the Danish program and establish an accessible path to Liberian midwifery. This partnership both standardizes and strengthens the midwife training taught in Liberia, with three years of education and works to strengthen health care facilities. The partners will provide additional antibiotics and family planning supplies, teach methods to prevent and care for hemorrhages, educate community members and provide more sanitary conditions in health facilities.

Midwife training programs in Liberia are currently limited to six schools. The primary focus will be to strengthen those six schools. A key part of strengthening the program is to train and retain teachers. This is specifically where the Danish Midwife Association comes in. In order for the schools to work efficiently, staff need to be robust and skilled.

With only about 200 midwives in all of Liberia, most women in the country currently do not receive prenatal care and give birth without medical assistance. Adding significant numbers of personnel to medical facilities that can both educate women on healthy pregnancies and assist in labor and delivery would narrow the care gap women experience in Liberia. Narrowing this gap would directly affect the MMR in Liberia.

Looking Ahead

While MMR is high and midwife headcounts are low, global health authorities have developed a clear plan to change this. With involvement of groups like the WHO and its H6 partners and their partnership with the Danish Midwives Association, these global health authorities are working to increase midwife headcounts to bolster prenatal care and improve maternal health outcomes.

– Nicole Miller

Nicole is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr