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Surviving the Arctic Struggles: Poverty in Greenland

Poverty in GreenlandGreenland, the world’s largest island, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and extreme climate, but beneath its icy beauty lies a pressing issue – poverty. Despite being part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland faces economic hardship that disproportionately affects Indigenous communities.

Causes of Poverty

  1. Economic Dependence and Limited Industry. Greenland’s economy is heavily reliant on the fishing industry, which accounts for more than 90% of its exports. This makes the economy highly vulnerable to market fluctuations and limits job opportunities. The Danish government provides substantial financial support, with an annual block grant of about $585 million, making up more than 50% of government revenues and about 20% of Greenland’s gross domestic product (GDP).
  2. Geographical Isolation and High Cost of Living. While Greenland is a stunning country, its isolation in the far North makes it susceptible to high import costs for goods and services, driving up the cost of living. Necessities such as food and fuel are significantly more expensive than in mainland Denmark. For example, a family of four has estimated monthly expenses of about $5,726 without rent. These high costs make daily life unaffordable for many residents, contributing to growing economic stress and inequality.
  3. Social Challenges and Vulnerable Populations. Social issues such as alcoholism and mental health problems are deeply intertwined with poverty. The Indigenous Inuit communities are disproportionately affected, with high rates of substance abuse exacerbating economic hardship. Studies show a dramatic increase in alcohol consumption in Greenland, leading to severe health and social problems. These challenges often contribute to family breakdowns, unemployment, and domestic violence, creating a cycle of vulnerability. Limited access to health care and support services further worsens the situation, leaving many without essential help.

Tackling Poverty in Greenland

The Danish government’s financial support helps maintain Greenland’s public services, including health care and education. However, there is a growing movement to strengthen Greenland’s economy beyond this aid by investing in local industries such as mining and tourism.

Similarly, other organizations strive to help alleviate poverty, such as The Greenland Social Foundation, which provides food, shelter and educational programs to struggling families. The Red Cross Greenland also plays a crucial role in providing social welfare programs and mental health support.

Furthermore, institutions like Ilisimatusarfik University provide scholarships, with more than $21,000 awarded in April 2024, to help Greenlanders pursue higher education and secure stable employment. Community-driven initiatives are also promoting traditional practices like fishing and craftsmanship to create self-sustaining economic opportunities.

Ultimately, Greenland’s poverty crisis is driven by economic dependency on unstable income, high costs of living and social issues that disproportionately affect Indigenous communities. However, through a combination of government support, local initiatives and education programs, there is hope for a more resilient and self-sufficient future for Greenland’s people.

– Emina Bolic

Emina is based in Birmingham, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Elderly Poverty in Eritrea

Elderly Poverty in EritreaEritrea, a small country in the Horn of Africa, faces significant challenges regarding elderly care and poverty. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the elderly in Eritrea (aged 65 and above ) constitute approximately 5.4% of the population. Most elderly citizens live in rural areas with limited access to essential services.

Economic Hardship

The deterioration of traditional family support systems for the elderly in Eritrea is predominantly linked to prolonged conflict, emigration and financial constraints. Indeed, one of the primary factors for elderly poverty in Eritrea is the substantial effect of national service on family structure. Furthermore, this is compounded by the inadequate wages provided to conscripts.

In Eritrea, national service is mandatory for individuals aged 18 to 50, impacting nearly 3 million of the 6.1 million population. As of January 2020, conscripts are remunerated with a minimal monthly salary of 3,000 nakfa. The salary is equivalent to approximately $190, which fails to suffice for basic family necessities. This inadequate income may contribute to rising poverty levels among the elderly, as numerous families rely on the insufficient earnings of conscripts. Ongoing conflicts and limited opportunities have resulted in significant emigration, leaving behind elderly individuals without adequate care.

Health Care Challenges

Access to health care is a significant issue for elderly people in Eritrea. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that there are only 0.8 physicians for every 10,000 residents in the country, one of the lowest figures globally.

The Eritrean Population and Health Survey (EPHS) found that 75% of Eritreans reside within a convenient 10 kilometers of a health facility. This is a concerning reality for some elderly people who are left with the daunting task of traveling beyond this distance to reach a health care center capable of addressing their age-related health conditions. Many elderly individuals face financial hardships that prevent them from affording the necessary transportation to access essential health services.

During an advocacy meeting on aging and health from March 26 to 28, 2019, Dr. Andebrhan Tesfatsion, the acting Director General of Public Health Services, affirmed that Eritrean elderly receive respect and support from families and communities, viewing aging as a positive aspect. However, he pointed out significant challenges for healthy aging, including unprepared health systems, insufficient social support, inadequate nutrition, food security and a lack of health information systems for aging indicators.

Limited Pension Coverage

Elderly poverty in Eritrea is becoming an increasingly pressing issue, with many older adults facing significant financial hardships. One key reason for this rise in poverty is the limited effectiveness of the current social support programs available to the elderly. Unfortunately, these programs reach only a small fraction of older adults in the country. This leaves many vulnerable individuals without the assistance they desperately need.

In Eritrea, the formal social protection system for senior citizens is minimal. Official programs aimed at helping elderly individuals and pensioners account for a mere 1.8% of all national social protection initiatives. This staggering statistic highlights the lack of resources and support structures necessary to assist a growing elderly population.

According to ILOSTAT data, as of 2021, social protection covers only 8.4% of Eritrea’s overall population. This means that a vast majority of people, including the elderly, do not receive any form of social safety net. The situation is dire and many seniors struggle to meet their basic needs.

Food Insecurity

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that 65% of Eritrea’s population faces undernourishment, especially in rural areas where 78% live. Despite this, agriculture only contributes 14% to the country’s GDP, revealing a gap between rural conditions and economic support.  

Elderly poverty in Eritrea is a critical concern, with 37% experiencing severe food insecurity. Indeed, only 60% can secure adequate nutrition in good years, and during droughts, this drops by 25%. This fluctuation highlights the vulnerability of agricultural systems and the urgent need for sustainable solutions to improve food security and quality of life for affected populations.

Solutions

Eritrea has progressed in elderly health concerns, from basic health care access to a comprehensive strategy aligned with international frameworks like the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing. The initial program (2017-2021) established objectives and a national focal point.

Eritrea’s current strategic plan (2022-2026) sets an ambitious goal of increasing healthy life expectancy from 53.7 to 63.6 years by 2026. Furthermore, the strategic plan addresses ageism and promotes age-friendly environments under the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing. It includes enhancing community care for older adults, improving data collection on healthy aging and revising health care policies to remove the fees for seniors. A nominal hospital registration fee of 6 Nakfa applies with waivers for those in need. Additional provisions include 24-hour emergency services, medication access for major non-communicable diseases (NCDs), improved governance and regional healthy aging programs.

– Vanuza Antonio

Vanuza is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project. 

Photo: Unsplash

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International Charities Working To Fight Poverty in Ethiopia

Poverty in EthiopiaNearly 70% of people live in multidimensional poverty in Ethiopia, with rural areas the worst affected. Multidimensional poverty encompasses various aspects of life, from food and job insecurity to poor health and living conditions. As such, Ethiopians suffer a crisis of circular poverty, with generations experiencing the same lack of access to clean water, education and life-saving health care. Due to the complexity of poverty in Ethiopia, international support and humanitarian aid play a vital role. Here are three of the international organizations working to make lasting change.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps has supported communities across Ethiopia since 2004. Its mission is to provide immediate, long-lasting support that will impact this generation and all those to come. Within 20 years, the organization has helped more than four million people in Ethiopia. Mercy Corps focuses its support on vulnerable communities, particularly marginalized Ethiopians such as women and those living in conflict-affected areas.

For many, support comes in the form of business skills acquisition, help in fostering market relationships and professional mentorship. Training and support like this are given to aid the building of stable economic opportunities throughout the country, allowing individuals to secure reliable employment and income streams.

Immediate support also plays a key role in Mercy Corps’ support, particularly in ensuring access to food for many Ethiopians. While some of its programs deliver agricultural support and climate-resistant seeds to rural areas, others provide immediate relief to Ethiopia’s impoverished people. This includes food deliveries and cash aid to allow families to purchase household necessities and ensure they have access to food.

Tikkun Olam Ventures (TOV)

TOV started with a two-year pilot program in Ethiopia, building upon decades of existing humanitarian work done by The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) across the country. The initiative aims to provide innovative Israeli technology to those still reliant on traditional farming methods and break the cycle of poverty in communities. Since then, tomatoes, onions and hot peppers have been grown using drip irrigation systems, fertilizers and hybrid seeds using this vital technology.

It’s estimated that two-thirds of those living in extreme poverty worldwide make their livelihoods from farming. This global reality is particularly staggering in Ethiopia, where agriculture is the largest economic sector, contributing 43% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Despite its importance, many farmers, especially smallholder and family farmers, remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, relying heavily on their crops for both income and sustenance.

To ensure that farmers can continue improving crop yields and ensure food and income security, TOV has used funding from an Ethiopian bank to purchase technology, seeds and technical support. When loans are repaid, the money returns to the loan fund, allowing more farmers to receive the benefits of Israeli technology.

For-Ethiopia

For-Ethiopia aims to reduce poverty in Ethiopia through education and health services. It believes that real change begins with small developmental projects focused on the community and its residents. The organization’s support includes providing medical equipment and training to health centers and health posts to ensure that everyone has access to clean, sterile environments and experienced health care workers.

A key priority of its aid is responding directly to community needs. For example, when health care workers requested fridges, For-Ethiopia ensured they received them. For-Ethiopia believes ending poverty in Ethiopia begins with access to education and health care, including clean, sanitary water.

Just as it supports health care facilities with essential equipment, it also supplies schools with resources such as books, bathrooms with handwashing stations and more. It credits these efforts with a more than 20% increase in girls’ school enrollment.

For-Ethiopia is currently running the Women and Children First campaign, which focuses on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the country.

Conclusion

Organizations like Mercy Corps, TOV, and For-Ethiopia are making a significant impact in Ethiopia by addressing poverty through agriculture, education, and health care. Their work demonstrates that lasting change is achievable with global support and community-driven solutions.

– Macy Hall

Macy is based in Dover, Kent, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Child Soldiers in Vietnam: The Cost of War on Children

Child Soldiers in Vietnam: The Cost of War on ChildrenChildren have often been caught in the crossfire of war, witnessing their homes destroyed and their childhoods disrupted. An especially tragic reality is the recruitment and use of child soldiers during conflict. Children have historically been expected or obligated to work as cooks, spies and even combatants and the Vietnam War (1955 to 1975) was no exception.

The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War lasted more than two decades and divided North and South Vietnam. The United States backed the South, sending around 536,000 troops. After World War II, both regions sought reunification but envisioned different futures. The North, inspired by the Cold War and Soviet influence, aimed to establish a communist state, while the South opposed this ideology. The war caused extensive loss of life and economic damage. More than 3 million people died, including 2 million Vietnamese civilians. By the time the war ended in 1975, Vietnam’s economy ranked among the poorest in the world.

Child Soldiers in Vietnam

Vietnamese children experienced wartime hardships that forced them to grow up quickly. Many became homeless overnight and lost access to consistent education due to the constant threat of attack. Children as young as 13 joined the Vietnamese Communist Party’s military efforts. They were trained in guerrilla warfare and participated in attacks on South Vietnamese and American forces. Child soldiers in Vietnam were so prominent in the war that there were military awards specific to children such as “Iron Fort Children” or “Destroyer of the Yanks.” These child soldiers were also given the title of “Tiny Guerilla.” The Tiny Guerillas were not drafted; many volunteered due to social pressures and economic hardship. Interviews and academic accounts suggest that promises of national prosperity and purpose motivated them to join the Viet Cong.

Children’s Rights After the War

Following the war, Vietnam introduced legal protections for children through the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The 2013 Constitution and new laws outlined regulations regarding children’s participation in civic life, including the military. These laws aim to prevent the future use of child soldiers in Vietnam.

Postwar Economic Effects

The post-war toll on Vietnam was devastating. Bombings and landmines destroyed much of the infrastructure and toxic chemicals lingered in the atmosphere. Following the war, Vietnam’s economy ranked among the world’s poorest and the government’s five-year plans were ineffective. However, the introduction of “Đổi Mới” marked a turning point, helping Vietnam become one of the fastest-growing markets, with an economic growth rate of 6 to 7%. Additionally, this policy reduced the poverty rate from 60% to 14% within nine years.

Looking Ahead

Vietnam’s postwar development includes strengthening legal protections for children and preventing their involvement in armed conflict. As the country continues to implement policies aligned with international child rights frameworks, expanding access to education, mental health support and economic opportunities may help address the long-term impacts of war.

Ongoing investment in youth-focused programs, especially in rural and historically affected areas, could support more consistent development outcomes. Collaboration between government, community organizations and international partners can potentially reinforce prevention strategies and improve child welfare systems. While Vietnam has made notable economic progress, continued attention to child protection is relevant in ensuring recovery efforts extend to future generations.

– Sydney Carr

Sydney is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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From Python to Plate: AI Fighting Food Insecurity in Thailand

AI Food InsecurityThailand is a country in Southeast Asia with a population of around 70 million in 2023. In the past few decades, Thailand’s population has been growing exponentially, with an increase of 9.1 million between the years 2000 and 2023. Thailand is a very significant player in the food processing industry, with exports valuing $39 billion in 2022 alone. Despite the country’s prevalence in the food production and export businesses, a 2023 study found that food insecurity impacts 28.6% of the population. Factors impacting this include the lasting effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, geographical location and debt.

An Aging Population or a Call to Action?

Recently, Thailand’s population growth has started to slow, raising concerns regarding the prospect of an aging population. In fact, according to the World Bank, “Thailand is the second-fastest aging country in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after Singapore, and it is growing old before it grows rich.” If Thailand’s population continues to age, shrinking the country’s workforce, the percentage of Thai citizens living under the poverty line and/or impacted by food insecurity could only continue to grow. To prevent this, it is essential to emphasize and support technologies and legislation that could increase productivity and allow Thai industries to thrive – even with a more limited workforce.

The Connection between AI and Food Insecurity

AI fighting food insecurity may be Thailand’s solution to their aging workforce. In recent years, the Thai government has presented several new programs and technologies to support the growth of AI. One example is the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model. The BCG model is an economic plan that emphasizes sustainability and productivity in several different spheres of industry, one being food and agriculture. According to the BCG model, the Thai agricultural industry could skyrocket in value if the country implements smart farming technology.

Smart farming tactics not only address issues of sustainability but also increase yield, preserve resources and minimize excessive labor. For example, predictive AI can alert farmers about potential pest outbreaks or droughts.

Ricult and HandySense B-Farm

One specific example of AI fighting food insecurity in action is tech start-up Ricult. Usman Javaid and Aukrit Unahalekhaka founded Ricult in an attempt to assist small farmers in their respective native countries, Pakistan and Thailand. One of the projects that the start-up has been developing is a free-to-use phone app meant to make AI-based agritech more accessible to small-scale farmers. Ricult’s website states that the app provides farmers with a “weather forecast, farm satellite, [and] expert advice to improve productivity and profit… [as well as] maximize yield and optimize operations with AI.” Approximately 400,000 farmers in Thailand are using the Ricult app.

Another notable AI agritech program is HandySense B-Farm, a beginner-friendly coding software that specializes in designing digital models for precision farming. The program is highly personalizable and can be adjusted according to crop type and farming conditions. The program includes “a variety of sensors such as real-time temperature, soil moisture, relative humidity, and light sensors, … [enabling] users to design control systems that meet the specific needs of their farms, such as automatic watering when the soil is dry or turning on supplementary lighting when there is insufficient light”

AI and Food Insecurity

According to Research and Markets, the Thailand AI in Agriculture Market stood at $80.33 million in 2023 and could reach $113.96 million by 2029, rising at a CAGR of 6.08%. This exponential increase in market value suggests that AI fighting food insecurity will have a very significant influence in Thailand.

– Helena Birbrower

Helena is based in Davis, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UNICEF’s HAC Appeal: Myanmar Stays Resilient

UNICEF's HACSince gaining independence in 1948, Myanmar has faced growing challenges involving its economy, internal conflict and public health. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) included Myanmar on its 2025 Emergency Watchlist, ranking it third among countries with the most significant risk of humanitarian disaster. International organizations such as UNICEF have supported the country for more than 70 years. Military juntas have governed Myanmar for most of its post-independence history. The first coup, led by General Ne Win in 1962, contributed to prolonged economic stagnation and persistent conflict between military leadership and opposition movements.

Escalating Conflict and Health Crisis Since 2021

Following the 2021 military coup by the Tatmadaw, escalating violence placed millions at risk. As of early 2025, more than 1.7 million people have been displaced. Limited access to vaccines and basic health care has contributed to Myanmar having the highest under-five mortality rate in Southeast Asia. Security conditions continue to deteriorate. Recent attacks include the arrest of opposition activists and airstrikes that have resulted in child casualties. Ground assaults have destroyed hospitals, further threatening access to health services.

Humanitarian Response by UNICEF and IRC

Organizations such as UNICEF and the IRC have worked to mitigate the crisis through long-term aid programs. UNICEF’s I.C.A.R.E. initiative combines cash assistance with rehabilitation services for children with disabilities. The agency also leads five inter-agency response priorities in Myanmar: WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene), education, nutrition, child protection and mine action.

In December 2024, UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific June Kunugi visited a daycare and physiotherapy center in Dala, Myanmar. Her visit included meetings with affected families and home visits to observe the program’s impact.

A beneficiary, six-year-old Wint Yamone Oo, receives support from the program, including cash transfers and mobility assistance. Wint attends therapy sessions and uses a walker provided through the initiative. The center continues to deliver services to children with disabilities and families facing displacement.

By the end of 2024, UNICEF’s HAC (Humanitarian Action for Children) appeal was launched, estimating that $208 million would be required to deliver critical services to 3.1 million vulnerable people across Myanmar.

Local Partnerships and Service Expansion

To ensure aid reaches marginalized populations, UNICEF partners with civil society organizations, nongovernmental organizations and other United Nations (U.N.) agencies. These partnerships help extend access to health and social protections and incorporate community feedback into service delivery.

UNICEF emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local-based actors to enhance program reach and responsiveness. This approach helps tailor support based on regional needs and reinforces long-term community engagement.

While UNICEF’s 2023 HAC appeal remained underfunded, ongoing efforts aim to secure greater donor support for 2024. UNICEF continues to advocate for sustainable funding to ensure continued assistance for children and families affected by conflict in Myanmar.

Looking Ahead

Ongoing support from international organizations remains vital as Myanmar continues to navigate its humanitarian crisis. Strengthening partnerships with local actors and expanding access to essential services could help protect vulnerable populations and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Stepping Up as Global Funding Declines: NGOs Replacing U.S. Aid

NGOs Replacing U.S. AidSince January 2025, significant shifts in U.S. foreign aid policy have left a substantial void in global development funding. The Trump administration’s decision to freeze the USAID funding has disrupted health and humanitarian programs worldwide and damaged its credibility in previous commitments to public health and humanitarian efforts. This abrupt halt has suspended vital initiatives, forcing many organizations to shut down projects, lay off staff and withdraw from communities—further intensifying the challenges that NGOs replacing U.S. aid in affected regions face

The Immediate Impact of Aid Cuts

The immediate impact of USAID cuts has been severe and far-reaching, affecting millions of people worldwide. The U.S. has historically been a driving force in international development assistance, but the recent cuts have led to the collapse of USAID-backed programs, creating a funding void that private donors struggle to fill.

Global health programs like the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which works to prevent and treat infectious diseases, and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) are among the hardest hit. With fewer resources, NGOs replacing U.S. aid face an uphill battle in controlling outbreaks, leaving the most vulnerable populations at higher risk.

To put the impact into numbers, “about 80% of the 1,460 community kitchens across Sudan shut down when USAID paused all funding,” according to Hajooj Kuka, spokesperson for the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) in Khartoum state, as reported by Al Jazeera, an independent news channel in the Arab world.

In contrast, advocacy groups continue to push forward for restored funding, emphasizing that foreign aid is not just a moral duty but a strategic investment in global stability.

NGOs’ Strategic Responses and Challenges

As NGOs replacing U.S. aid navigate these challenges, they have intensified efforts to influence policy changes and secure alternative resources. One of their key strategies is diversification, with public-private partnerships emerging as a major source of funding. This advocacy is essential to keeping global development priorities on the international agenda.

To cope with funding shortfalls, many NGOs are implementing temporary measures such as tapping into their financial reserves and unrestricted funds to sustain essential operations. They are also renegotiating agreements with other donors and seeking waivers to maintain critical services. Additionally, some staff members are working voluntarily to keep essential programs running. While these efforts demonstrate the dedication of those in the sector, they also underscore the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions.

The Future of NGOs in a Changing Aid Scene

With persistent global challenges such as changing weather patterns, rising inequality and ongoing conflicts, the need for resilience and adaptability among NGOs replacing U.S. aid is more critical than ever. These organizations are actively seeking diverse funding alternatives, forging strategic partnerships and embracing technology to sustain their operations. The ability of NGOs to replace U.S. aid to navigate these changes could be crucial in shaping the future of international aid and development.

– Rhasna Albuquerque

Rhasna is based in Fortaleza, Brazil and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Fight Against HIV/AIDS in Fiji 

HIVAIDS in FijiFiji, an archipelago made up of 300 islands and 540 islets in the Pacific Ocean, has declared an HIV outbreak after the alarming spike in cases over the last few years. According to experts, “since the first reported case in 1989, HIV-1 incidence in Fiji has increased by about tenfold, from 0.7 per 100,000 in 2000 to 7 per 100,000 in 2021. While this increase is largely due to improved diagnostic capacity, it is also suspected to reflect a growing epidemic.” Here is more information about HIV/AIDS in Fiji.

Causes

The Fijian Health Ministry credits the rise in HIV/AIDS cases in Fiji to illegal drug usage. There are two particular practices that are said to have caused the spike in cases, which are “bluetoothing” and “chem-sex.” However, others believe that the rise of cases is due to the lack of funding and research in HIV/AIDS as a whole. According to an EastAsiaForum article, “before 2012, they used a combination prevention approach to HIV. Funding had ramped up in 2008 through the HIV and STIs Regional Response Fund… [but] in 2013, the HIV Regional Response funding ended.” This may have played a significant role in the spike of HIV/AIDS cases in the Fijian Islands. 

Financial Implications

The HIV/AIDS outbreak has not only severely impacted the health of Fijians but also their finances and quality of life. Fiji’s increasing rates of urbanization, which have caused homelessness and unemployment, have also contributed to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Fiji. Additionally, a large part of Fiji’s economy is reliant upon tourism, as they are still recovering from COVID-19. A reputation hit that could come from this outbreak would be detrimental to the Fijian economy, which would likely make the spread even worse, as it is disproportionately affecting those who are economically struggling.

Responses to the Spike

In January 2025, Fiji announced a 90-day containment plan that will guide the nation’s AIDS response until 2027. This is the start of the prioritization of HIV research in Fiji and helping the most vulnerable among the population get the treatment they need. However, there is still the underlying concern that some people who are HIV positive in Fiji are not aware of their status, and those who are too afraid to receive the care that they need due to prejudice and the stigmatization of the condition. Minister Lalabalavu, the minister of Health and Medical Services of Fiji, says that “discrimination and stigma will only serve to make our current situation worse.”

In order to combat this, there are many movements to increase education on HIV/AIDS in hopes of increasing knowledge and reducing stigma, such as the HIV Surge Strategy 2024-2027 that the Fijian government has endorsed. The focus of the strategy is based on intersecting issues that contribute to the rise in HIV cases, such as prevention, treatment, harm reduction, human rights and social justice. Additionally, it plans on coordinating public health responses due to the presence of hard drugs within the Fijian community.

Government Intervention

UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director Jan Beagle said, “The most effective results can only be achieved through partnership across sectors, through strong leadership, and with community at the center. By taking AIDS out of isolation, the impact can go far beyond the AIDS response.” Displaying that this issue has become a government issue, and due to this the government has given Fijian $FJ200,000 for its HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Programme, a program that targets the prevention of drug use in underprivileged communities as well as destigmatizing testing centers and HIV itself, in the 2023-2024 budget and is only adding more every year to combat this crisis.

Looking Ahead

While the outbreak of HIV/AIDS in Fiji has extremely affected the country’s population, the increasing awareness towards this issue has allowed them to fight back and take control over their health. However, it is still important to continue raising awareness towards this topic. HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects Fijians that come from low-income communities, and the lack of knowledge has made the spread worse. Therefore, continued efforts are essential to ensuring that these people get the education and support they need to slow the spread. 

– Sydney Carr

Sydney is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Protecting Futures: Addressing Child Marriage in Rwanda

Child Marriage in RwandaChild marriage in Rwanda is being tackled through education and advocacy, helping communities to unite and confront the harmful practice, creating a safer future for young women and girls.

Today, approximately 38,800 girls in Rwanda are married before the age of 15 and 424,900 married before 18. This practice has direct links to poverty as struggling families see early marriage as a means for financial relief. However, Rwanda is implementing strategies to tackle child marriage by addressing the root causes.

Legal Protections

The Rwandan government has raised the legal marriage age to 21. This law aims to protect girls from early marriage, allowing them to complete their education.

Mandatory documentation checks help to enforce the law, closing loopholes that previously allowed child marriage in Rwanda to fly under the radar. Additionally, there are awareness campaigns about the consequences for breaking the law which community leaders support. These consequences can act as deterrents, helping people to understand the seriousness of the law.

Education Programs

Access to education is central to preventing child marriage in Rwanda. The “Girl’s Education Policy,” launched in 2008, has increased girls’ enrolment in primary and secondary schools by 15%. This policy promotes gender equality through mentorship programs and savings groups for girls.

UNICEF has also supported girls’ education in Rwanda through initiatives like the GIRL program (Girls In Rwanda Learn), which provides learning support for girls at risk of dropping out of school. The scheme helps to address challenges such as academic struggles and limited resources, aiming to empower girls to stay in school and advance their education in spite of familial and economic pressures that may lead to early marriage. 

Community Involvement

Community-based efforts are deconstructing cultural norms that accept child marriage as commonplace. For example, the 12+ Adolescent Girls Empowerment Program hosted workshops and seminars to empower girls, build new skills and educate on the risks of early marriage. With almost 100,000 girls reached, the initiative strengthened young girl’s self-confidence and reduced the risk that they and their families might see child marriage as the only option for economic security.

Economic Empowerment

Economic pressure is one of the main reasons behind child marriage in Rwanda. However, the country has introduced initiatives to tackle this. For example, vocational training programs equip girls with practical skills in jobs such as tailoring, hairdressing and farming. These skills give young women and girls a route to financial independence, helping them to provide for their families without relying on early marriage. These programs are also open to young girls who have already been a victim of child marriage or who are young mothers.

Support for Victims

Rwanda has support systems in place for victims of child marriage. Similar to the vocational training programs, community-based girls’ clubs provide safe spaces where survivors can share experiences, receive emotional support and gain critical skills to help them reclaim their lives.

Reintegration programs that local organizations provide such as the “Imbuto Foundation” offer counseling to help girls, who have been married early or teenage mothers, navigate any difficulties as they rebuild their lives. Once again, vocational training through these programs also gives survivors the tools for financial independence, allowing them to break free from cycles of dependency.

Progress and Challenges

So far, efforts to reduce child marriage have seen the percentage of women, aged 20-24, married before 18 lowered to 6%. This number reflects the effectiveness of the legal reforms, education initiatives and community advocacy.

Despite this progress, one in 20 young women still marry as children. The practice largely persists in rural areas where poverty, limited resources and ingrained cultural practices hinder further improvements. However, the progress so far proves that Rwanda can overcome these barriers. With continued investment, awareness and collaboration a freer future can be ensured for all young girls in Rwanda.

– Amber Lennox

Amber is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The $6.5 Billion Pledge: Syria’s Recovery Package

Syria's Recovery PackageOn March 17, international donors convened in Brussels and pledged nearly €6 billion (approximately $6.5 billion) in aid to revitalize Syria’s reconstruction efforts following the political transition after President Bashar al-Assad’s departure in December 2024. This financial commitment supports the country’s new leadership as it begins stabilizing and rebuilding after the civil war. The conference also aimed to reaffirm the global community’s commitment to a peaceful and inclusive future for Syria.

Discussions focused not only on physical reconstruction but also on strengthening civil society, expanding access to education and addressing widespread displacement. The event marked a renewed commitment to multilateral collaboration, bringing together more than 60 countries and international organizations to discuss not only funding but also sustainable strategies for Syria’s recovery.

Pledges for Syria’s Recovery Package

The European Commission reported that €4.2 billion (about $4.6 billion) of the pledged amount would be provided as grants, while €1.6 billion (about $1.7 billion) would come as low-interest loans. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU is increasing its pledge to Syrians in the country and the region to almost €2.5 billion (about $2.7 billion) for 2025 and 2026.

Among major donor countries, Germany committed approximately €300 million (about $326 million), with more than half designated for aid within Syria and the remainder for displaced Syrians abroad. The United Kingdom (U.K.), despite reducing its foreign aid budget to 0.3% of GDP, pledged up to $208 million. The United States (U.S.), represented by Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Levant and Syria Natasha Franceschi, did not announce a new pledge, noting its status as the largest contributor to Syrian aid over the past 14 years and indicating that foreign aid commitments are under review.

Context and Challenges

The pledging conference comes at a pivotal time for Syria. The new leadership is tasked with unifying a country fragmented by war. Rebuilding efforts face obstacles, including a shattered economy and infrastructure, with United Nations (U.N.) estimates putting reconstruction costs between $250 billion and $400 billion. Security threats persist. Recent clashes, including an ambush on a Syrian security patrol and retaliatory attacks from supporters of the new government, have resulted in civilian casualties. These ongoing incidents have led some donors to delay investment until more stable conditions are confirmed.

International Community’s Role in Syria

The international community’s pledges demonstrate support for Syria’s transition toward peace and development. President Von der Leyen emphasized the urgency of assistance, stating, “At this critical time, the people of Syria need us more than ever.” However, this year’s total commitment falls short of the €7.5 billion (about $8.1 billion) pledged last year, reflecting financial constraints and competing global priorities.

Syria’s Path Forward

Syria’s recovery potentially depends on efforts to restore essential services, rebuild infrastructure and foster reconciliation among diverse communities. Syria’s recovery package represents an important step in addressing urgent humanitarian needs and laying the groundwork for long-term recovery. Coordination between the Syrian government, international donors and humanitarian organizations could be essential to ensure the transparent, inclusive and effective use of aid.

– Leighton Webber

Leighton is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

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