It is crucial to recognize the significant impact that global poverty reduction can have on the United States (U.S.) and its thriving economy, particularly for companies operating on a global scale. By proactively investing in poverty reduction efforts worldwide, companies can unlock a multitude of benefits that not only contribute to their long-term success but also drive local and national economic growth. In this article, we will explore the various advantages that companies can derive from these poverty reduction initiatives, underscoring the mutually beneficial relationship between poverty alleviation and sustainable business development.
Skilled Workforce Development
Mostly confined to the world’s poorest countries, close to 600 million people will be looking for jobs. As global poverty initiatives build more stable nations, companies can broaden their horizons and expand their markets. With multinational U.S. companies establishing themselves in developing nations, these companies can easily find employment, which contributes to skilled workforce development. Consequently, a domino effect emerges with individuals from developing nations building on their professional skills and companies expanding their abilities to cater to customer needs through an expanded workforce.
Benevolent Corporate Image
Through management quality, strong public relations teams and branding during commemorative dates, corporations always seek to develop their corporate image and avoid scandal. In doing so, they aspire to receive as much profit as possible based on its reputation and operations. Corporations can develop their image into one of benevolence through global poverty investment. In doing so, their corporate social responsibility is enhanced, and a positive public image is fostered, resulting in increased customer loyalty as consumers increasingly prioritize socially responsible businesses.
Continued Economic Growth
The economy of developing nations can transition from being entirely dependent on receiving aid toward building its economy through the presence of U.S. companies. As companies diversify their market access and operate in different cultural and economic landscapes, they gain valuable influence to cater their products to diverse consumer needs. In doing so, U.S. companies can build their reputation and influence around helping overseas economies, resulting in new and profitable market ventures.
Diverse Market Access
With global poverty investment diversifying market access for several U.S. companies, their horizons and market potential are broadened. In doing so, corporations can receive higher profits from new, stable U.S. trading partners. Additionally, the local and nationwide economy can enhance itself, promoting a more transformative geopolitical status for the United States to achieve in global trade. A stronger United States means a more considerable presence for U.S. companies abroad.
Improved Supply Chains
Aid can mitigate geopolitical tensions and promote stability. As a result, U.S. companies can expand their markets with new trade partners for the United States, expanding on new supply chain routes. Such benefits can boost a U.S. company’s revenue and mitigate supply chain shortages, especially in a pandemic economy.
Diversification of Business Strategy
As U.S. companies develop circumstantial, new strategies in collaboration with local communities in developing countries, management can create new insights into community cooperation and interaction. From this, U.S. companies can adapt and utilize what has been learned all across the board to promote innovative business practices. U.S. companies that invest in overseas projects can outmaneuver their competition if practical strategies emerge.
Encouragement of Public-Private Partnerships
Private corporations have immense opportunities to develop lasting partnerships with public firms, governments and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships can expand on other benefits listed in this article and amplify impact. In doing so, sustainable, large-scale initiatives like IBM’s partnership with the United Nations develop. Through its partnership, IBM complements the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of objectives the UN is renowned for hoping to fulfill. IBM will utilize its technological and innovation capabilities to develop solutions that directly contribute towards the UN’s success in these SDGs. For example, artificial intelligence and cloud computing will be integral in global development and sustainability, as shown by the resulting environmental sustainability that has emerged from IBM’s cooperation.
Access to Raw Materials and Resources
Through partnerships with developing nations, raw materials and resources previously inaccessible could be relatively more accessible through U.S. corporate investment. Corporations can profit from investments in these business partnerships with developing countries. Consequently, operational efficiency, production cost reduction and a stable supply chain can enhance the global economy. For example, Tesla has acquired natural resources for developing sustainable, alternative energy sources that have previously been rendered inaccessible due to ill-equipped and unavailable technology.
Innovation and Technology Transfers
International investments can facilitate innovation and technology transfer between U.S. companies and partnering firms. With exposure to new technological ecosystems, corporations can develop new networks for conducting business. For example, Microsoft uses Sony, Panasonic and Toshiba products for its operating system, Windows.
Increased Consumer Choices
If nations become more stable and develop their goods and services, they can sell them in American markets, giving American consumers a sizable choice. From smartphones to automobiles, consumers can pressure American companies to drive their innovation in response to the competition, leading to technological advancement, new revenues and multiple customer options. The competition benefits consumers and U.S. technological advancement, positioning the United States as a global industry leader.
The lucrative benefits outlined for U.S. companies resulting from global poverty investment illustrates the transformative power that international poverty aid and social responsibility can offer. Through these initiatives, these companies stand to gain far more than the aforementioned net profit. From fostering skilled workforces and enhancing corporate images to tapping into diverse markets and promoting innovation, the effects of such investments extend across the business world.
– Arman Ahmed
Photo: Flickr
Poverty Levels and Remittances in South Korea
Poverty as a Result of Remittance Fund Disparity
Despite the transaction value of $4.9 billion projected in South Korea’s Digital Remittances market in 2024 — typically coming from developed countries — the distribution of these funds raises concerns about economic disparities and potential implications for poverty. Though the market is anticipated to expand, the average transaction value per user is estimated at $320,440, suggesting a concentration of larger remittances among a certain segment of the population. With a total of 176,400 users expected by 2027, there is a risk that a significant portion of South Korea’s population might not benefit from these remittance transactions.
According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), South Korea has the fourth-highest wealth disparity out of 38 developing global economies measured. OECD reports that in 2018-2019, the relative poverty rate in South Korea reached 16.7%, meaning one in six South Koreans lives on less than half the median income for the country. A large portion of those living in poverty are over the age of 65 and thus unable to find adequate employment. Many have little to no savings and reside in rural areas.
Unequal Distribution Among Population Centers
Disparities in accessibility and distribution of remittances means that certain regions benefit more readily than others, amplifying existing inequalities. Urban centers often become primary recipients, leaving rural and less affluent areas with fewer resources to combat poverty. This geographical imbalance underscores the importance of investigating not only the overall impact of remittances but also their specific regional implications.
The symbiotic relationship between economic progress, remittances and poverty levels requires a comprehensive and empathetic approach. As the economic landscape evolves, policymakers, economists and communities must collaboratively address the multifaceted nature of poverty. By acknowledging the interplay between urban prosperity and rural challenges, South Korea can craft targeted strategies that uplift the entire nation, ensuring that the benefits of economic success are shared equitably among all citizens.
Challenges of Unequal Access to Remittance Funds
The challenge of unequal distribution of remittances in South Korea is not solely geographic but also demographic. Certain demographic groups, such as migrant workers and marginalized communities, may face barriers to accessing the benefits of remittances in South Korea.
Discrimination, lack of financial infrastructure and limited awareness of available support mechanisms can impede the equitable distribution of remittance funds, perpetuating social and economic disparities. While the research around reducing remittances disparity has yet to produce a solution, several non-government organizations (NGOs) are dedicated to addressing the issue in South Korea.
ChildFund Korea started in 1948 as a prominent international NGO. It has been instrumental in addressing the challenges of poverty in South Korea, particularly those stemming from the uneven distribution of remittances. Through its multiple regional headquarters, community welfare centers, foster care centers, child protection agencies and Hansarang Welfare Institutes for the Disabled, ChildFund Korea provides sustainable financial, physical and emotional support to help vulnerable children and families. The organization’s commitment to child protection and rights is widely recognized both within the Republic of Korea and internationally.
The Korea Trust Fund (KTF), in partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG), committed $15 million over three years to address fragility, conflict and violence (FCV), particularly in Asia and the Pacific. Established in 2009 with a primary emphasis on investment lending, the KTF facilitates project preparation and implementation support in key development sectors through catalytic grant projects. Additionally, the fund promotes innovative engagements for development in FCV by strengthening knowledge exchanges, cutting-edge analytics and capacity building, including partnerships with non-traditional actors like tech companies, in an effort to increase the distribution of remittances in South Korea.
Conclusion
As South Korea continues its journey toward economic prosperity, the impact of remittances on poverty levels is imperative to track. By acknowledging the challenges posed by unequal access and incorporating remittance considerations into planning, the nation can strive for a more equitable distribution of resources and a reduction in poverty levels for the well-being of its citizens.
Collaboration between government entities, financial institutions and non-profit organizations is paramount in creating a comprehensive strategy that not only recognizes the pivotal role of remittances in alleviating poverty but actively works toward fostering inclusive economic development.
– Mahima Bhat
Photo: Unsplash
Global Poverty Investment: Top 10 Benefits for U.S. Companies
Skilled Workforce Development
Mostly confined to the world’s poorest countries, close to 600 million people will be looking for jobs. As global poverty initiatives build more stable nations, companies can broaden their horizons and expand their markets. With multinational U.S. companies establishing themselves in developing nations, these companies can easily find employment, which contributes to skilled workforce development. Consequently, a domino effect emerges with individuals from developing nations building on their professional skills and companies expanding their abilities to cater to customer needs through an expanded workforce.
Benevolent Corporate Image
Through management quality, strong public relations teams and branding during commemorative dates, corporations always seek to develop their corporate image and avoid scandal. In doing so, they aspire to receive as much profit as possible based on its reputation and operations. Corporations can develop their image into one of benevolence through global poverty investment. In doing so, their corporate social responsibility is enhanced, and a positive public image is fostered, resulting in increased customer loyalty as consumers increasingly prioritize socially responsible businesses.
Continued Economic Growth
The economy of developing nations can transition from being entirely dependent on receiving aid toward building its economy through the presence of U.S. companies. As companies diversify their market access and operate in different cultural and economic landscapes, they gain valuable influence to cater their products to diverse consumer needs. In doing so, U.S. companies can build their reputation and influence around helping overseas economies, resulting in new and profitable market ventures.
Diverse Market Access
With global poverty investment diversifying market access for several U.S. companies, their horizons and market potential are broadened. In doing so, corporations can receive higher profits from new, stable U.S. trading partners. Additionally, the local and nationwide economy can enhance itself, promoting a more transformative geopolitical status for the United States to achieve in global trade. A stronger United States means a more considerable presence for U.S. companies abroad.
Improved Supply Chains
Aid can mitigate geopolitical tensions and promote stability. As a result, U.S. companies can expand their markets with new trade partners for the United States, expanding on new supply chain routes. Such benefits can boost a U.S. company’s revenue and mitigate supply chain shortages, especially in a pandemic economy.
Diversification of Business Strategy
As U.S. companies develop circumstantial, new strategies in collaboration with local communities in developing countries, management can create new insights into community cooperation and interaction. From this, U.S. companies can adapt and utilize what has been learned all across the board to promote innovative business practices. U.S. companies that invest in overseas projects can outmaneuver their competition if practical strategies emerge.
Encouragement of Public-Private Partnerships
Private corporations have immense opportunities to develop lasting partnerships with public firms, governments and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships can expand on other benefits listed in this article and amplify impact. In doing so, sustainable, large-scale initiatives like IBM’s partnership with the United Nations develop. Through its partnership, IBM complements the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of objectives the UN is renowned for hoping to fulfill. IBM will utilize its technological and innovation capabilities to develop solutions that directly contribute towards the UN’s success in these SDGs. For example, artificial intelligence and cloud computing will be integral in global development and sustainability, as shown by the resulting environmental sustainability that has emerged from IBM’s cooperation.
Access to Raw Materials and Resources
Through partnerships with developing nations, raw materials and resources previously inaccessible could be relatively more accessible through U.S. corporate investment. Corporations can profit from investments in these business partnerships with developing countries. Consequently, operational efficiency, production cost reduction and a stable supply chain can enhance the global economy. For example, Tesla has acquired natural resources for developing sustainable, alternative energy sources that have previously been rendered inaccessible due to ill-equipped and unavailable technology.
Innovation and Technology Transfers
International investments can facilitate innovation and technology transfer between U.S. companies and partnering firms. With exposure to new technological ecosystems, corporations can develop new networks for conducting business. For example, Microsoft uses Sony, Panasonic and Toshiba products for its operating system, Windows.
Increased Consumer Choices
If nations become more stable and develop their goods and services, they can sell them in American markets, giving American consumers a sizable choice. From smartphones to automobiles, consumers can pressure American companies to drive their innovation in response to the competition, leading to technological advancement, new revenues and multiple customer options. The competition benefits consumers and U.S. technological advancement, positioning the United States as a global industry leader.
The lucrative benefits outlined for U.S. companies resulting from global poverty investment illustrates the transformative power that international poverty aid and social responsibility can offer. Through these initiatives, these companies stand to gain far more than the aforementioned net profit. From fostering skilled workforces and enhancing corporate images to tapping into diverse markets and promoting innovation, the effects of such investments extend across the business world.
– Arman Ahmed
Photo: Flickr
WaterStep Funds Clean Water Projects With Used Shoes
WaterStep’s Growth
Mark Hogg, WaterStep’s Founder and CEO, explained in an interview with The Borgen Project that he started the organization in 1995 to use water as a “tool for health.” Hogg traveled to West Africa in 1983 to work on a dam and according to him, the trip was “life-changing,” providing valuable insights about the consequences of waterborne illness.
WaterStep has worked in 70 countries and its impact has doubled in the last two years. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the growth by spreading awareness about hygiene issues and increasing demand for clean water. Growth also occurred when WaterStep began shipping equipment rather than hand-delivering it to project locations. UPS delivered 630 pieces of equipment to East Africa for WaterStep in 2021 without any cost.
WaterStep team members, Mark Hogg, Founder and CEO, Zacharie Tossou, International Program and Development Director and Kellie Moore, Director of Strategic Initiatives, attended the invitation-only U.N. 2023 Water Conference, an experience that affirmed their strategy.
WaterStep Technologies
WaterStep provides several clean water technologies to communities in need. Lyssa Castor, WaterStep’s Director of Marketing and Development, explained the types of technology to The Borgen Project. WaterBalls are plastic balls with attached handles that, when filled with water and pushed, make water transport significantly easier and more efficient. Without WaterBalls, women and children commonly carry five-gallon containers of water on their heads for long distances. “The heavyweight compresses the spine and causes significant health problems,” Castor said.
WaterStep also offers BleachMakers that create bleach for cleaning and sanitation. Many communities use BleachMakers to bottle and sell bleach, thereby generating income. Additionally, the nonprofit organization offers an M-100 Chlorine Generator, which is designed to purify water using a car battery and salt. Another innovation is the WaterStep Water on Wheels (WOW) Cart, a moveable water treatment system designed to clean water during natural disasters and emergencies.
The WaterStep team chooses technologies that address the specific needs and challenges of each community. After committing to help a community, WaterStep engages community members to contribute to the project. The community has “skin in the game,” Castor explained, which allows them to work together with WaterStep to bring about long-term, sustainable solutions.
Successful Clean Water Projects
WaterStep has executed numerous clean water projects, providing people affected by poverty and disasters access to clean water. Here are just three:
In 2023, WaterStep provided a BleachMaker, allowing the school to make bleach and improve sanitation and hygiene. The school has seen significant improvements in attendance and reduced disease. Additionally, students with mobility challenges can more fully participate in the community.
A local plumber helped connect the rain catchment system and WaterStep team members trained representatives from the community on how to use the equipment. After installation, the school’s director reported increased attendance and healthier students. Students no longer transport water on their heads every day and younger children can attend school.
He has heard from a person on the ground in Kenya that the prisons are now the best-smelling and safest places in the communities. Additionally, the positive impact extends beyond the prison walls, as people now transport water from the prison to nearby sites, further amplifying the benefits of the initiative.
Contributors to WaterStep
There are many ways people contribute to WaterStep’s clean water projects. WaterStep accepts monetary donations at WaterStep.org. People donate shoes at drop-off sites around Louisville, KY and through shoe drives in nearby states. Through “Give Back Boxes,” people donate shoes via mail. A Give Back Box is any large cardboard box filled with shoes and mailed to WaterStep for a flat rate of $20.
In addition to donations, dedicated volunteers work at WaterStep collecting and sorting shoes and manufacturing equipment like the M100 Chlorine Generators, BleachMakers and WOW carts. These efforts help WaterStep continue to improve more lives around the world with clean water.
– Kelly Carroll
Photo: Flickr
School Feeding Programs in Yemen
Why Feeding Programs Matter
School feeding programs positively impact children and their families on multiple levels. The promise of a school lunch increases enrollment and attendance and often results in better cognition and educational achievement. The fresh produce needed from local farmers for these lunches drives demand, increasing the diversity and availability of local produce as well as increasing the income and food security of households. Children also carry the long-term benefits of better health and productivity into adulthood.
The Critical Situation
With one of the highest child malnutrition rates in the world and 17 million people facing food insecurity, Yemen’s situation is dire. Eight years of civil war have exacerbated initial food production challenges and water scarcity. In such unstable conditions, consistently receiving a meal at school keeps children in the classroom and brings them a sense of normality.
While schools in urban areas are better equipped to handle many students, classrooms averaging 40 to 50 children, Yemen’s rural areas suffer from a lack of resources to fix schools often damaged by conflict. Providing school meals in these areas impacts the morale and health of students immensely.
WFP Leads Feeding Efforts
WFP launched its school meals program in Yemen in 2018, with a focus on the first 8,000 days of childhood, according to WFP. Initially serving 110,000 students per month, the program has grown to accommodate 600,000 monthly and expects to grow further in the coming years. The meals provide the necessary nutrients needed to prevent diseases and increase focus in the classroom. They also provide incentives for families to keep their children in school when they otherwise might send them to work to contribute to the family income.
The fortified, shelf-stable biscuits the WFP distributes through school feeding programs in Yemen provide a boost of energy. Locally sourced date bars are also on the menu. Utilizing local produce promotes agricultural development and improves the economy. The economic benefits increase when school meals are provided, as parents can focus on investing in their family’s livelihoods.
HSA Group and Tetra Pak Join Forces to Distribute Fortified Milk
A new partnership is working alongside school feeding programs in Yemen to solve the hunger problem. Yemen’s largest private company, Hayel Saeed Anam (HSA) Group and packaging company Tetra Pak have joined forces to create a school milk initiative. Their initiative will provide fortified milk to 10,000 children in Yemeni schools daily.
Tetra Pak’s aseptic packaging keeps milk fresh for up to 12 months, reducing the impact of distribution delays from transport challenges caused by damaged infrastructure. Meanwhile, HSA Group’s Humanitarian Development Program manages the distribution of the milk to schools in collaboration with UNICEF and the WFP.
Tackling the issue of hunger is daunting, but school feeding programs in Yemen are making progress. The WFP’s country director in Yemen, Stephen Anderson, has heard from many adult Yemenis who have expressed gratitude for the school meal program’s positive impact on their childhoods. “For them, this is something good in their past. They know someone made an investment in them,” says Anderson.
– Isabella Rothe
Photo: Flickr
Period Poverty in the Maldives
Period Poverty
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, adequate sanitation facilities and education on menstrual health. This issue particularly affects individuals who cannot afford or readily obtain necessary menstrual products, leading to challenges in managing their periods with dignity and comfort. Period poverty affects around 500 million women and girls worldwide. It is not just an economic issue but also encompasses social and cultural barriers, including stigmas and taboos surrounding menstruation.
The Sensitivity of Sexual Health in the Maldives
In the Maldives, strict religious beliefs silence discussions regarding sexual health. The conservative religious landscape has harvested an environment of shame and sensitivity around topics such as non-marital sexual activity, reproductive health and menstruation, resulting in a stigma that prevents open discussions and advancements in these areas. This obstacle has significantly hampered efforts to combat period poverty in the country, depriving women of access to healthcare, education, and hygienic and affordable products.
The capital city of Male primarily houses sexual health services that may offer women an opportunity to seek care and access. With over a thousand islands, nearly 200 of which are inhabited, this poses an extreme challenge of accessibility for people not within reachable distance, especially those living in rural areas. In addition to this, there is a lack of access to menstrual products due to the landscape and barriers to traveling.
The lack of sexual healthcare for women, coupled with a reluctance to address these issues, results in a cycle that harms women and girls across the Maldives. The religious and cultural sensitivity surrounding the topic has created ongoing challenges for women and the issue of period poverty in the Maldives.
As periods are still a taboo subject in the Maldives, there is very little discussion surrounding them, especially in school systems. These problems are at risk of not being addressed throughout the country, specifically within parliament. As of 2021, women occupied only 4.6% of parliamentary seats in the country. This underrepresentation of women in leadership and policy-making positions further imposes a barrier to women’s rights and breaks the stigma around sexual health and menstruation.
Making Efforts
One project has served as a beacon of hope for the country and its citizens amidst the challenges of access that women face in the Maldives. In 2019, Zero Waste Maldives launched the Cupvert initiative to make menstrual health information more widely accessible to women across the country, while also educating them on eco-friendly and sustainable ways to manage their periods. Education and awareness are a large part of the Cupvert initiative, spreading information to break the silence surrounding menstruation and sexual health care. The initiative does this through campaigns, workshops and outreach projects. By educating women on menstrual health, Cupvert wants to empower them to continue the conversation and make informed decisions regarding their menstrual health.
In addition to education and outreach, Cupvert promotes sustainable and eco-friendly menstrual products, which hold a more practical use in the Maldives. Products like reusable cloth pads or menstrual cups are easier to use in an area like the Maldives, where the geographic landscape prevents easy traveling and access to stores or markets.
Since its launch, Culvert has reached more than 45,000 people across the Maldives, according to Zero Waste Maldives. This project has sparked conversations, educated women, challenged societal norms and offered practical solutions to such a large issue. Cupvert goes beyond just spreading awareness, it actively sparks a sense of empowerment and belonging for women across the country, one that they have never experienced before. It has sparked a major progression for women’s health, one that will hopefully serve as a stepping stone toward accessibility and the elimination of period poverty in the Maldives.
Looking Forward
The issue of period poverty in the Maldives is deeply rooted in religious and cultural sensitivity. Despite the challenges posed by a lack of sexual health care accessibility, societal stigma and the underrepresentation of women in leadership, the Cupvert initiative stands out as a beacon of hope. By sparking empowerment and challenging societal norms, Cupvert signifies a crucial step toward breaking the silence surrounding menstruation and eliminating period poverty in the nation. The success of this initiative highlights the potential for positive change and a brighter future ahead for women’s health in the Maldives.
– Katherine Barrows
Photo: Pixabay
Child Marriage in the Dominican Republic
During her time in office, Melany spent hours with the President, advocating and discussing the prioritization of protecting children and in 2021, a year after Melany’s symbolic “presidency,” the Dominican Republic passed Law 1-21, making it illegal for a person under 18 to marry under any circumstance.
History and Effects of Child Marriage
According to the International Justice Mission (IJM), among all Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Dominican Republic has the highest rates of child marriage, defined as “any formal marriage or informal union between a child under the age of 18 and an adult or another child.” According to UNICEF, approximately 36% of women between ages 20 and 24 were first married before turning 18 in the Dominican Republic, compared to 15% in Haiti, 8% in Jamaica and 26% in Cuba.
The consequences of these unions reach from the individual level to the national level and even worldwide, with profound effects on a country’s economy and living standards. In 2017, the World Bank found that individuals married under the age of 18 are more likely to drop out of school, resulting in a shortened education that disqualifies them from job opportunities and reduces their earnings in the labor market.
It also found that being married during childhood is a likely predictor of pregnancy before the age of 18. The addition of supporting a child adds financial demand on top of the already limiting conditions of shortened education and job disqualification, creating a poverty-vulnerable environment.
Advocacy Efforts and Improvements
To combat the financial consequences and causes of child marriage in the Dominican Republic, Crecer Contenta, a program set up in 2012 by Plan International that Melany is also part of, collaborates with 120 communities around the country to set up an extracurricular class.
The class provides financial education to young girls, covering topics such as money management, entrepreneurial pursuits and life skills to help them overcome social issues within their communities. It also educates parents to promote community solidarity against child marriage and emphasizes the widespread benefits of keeping children in school and out of marriage.
According to Plan International, about 540 young girls have felt the impacts of Crecer Contenta. The program recently completed its nine-month program in five Dominican communities, working with 88 girls to develop their financial skills and instill the importance of completing education.
While child marriage is illegal in the Dominican Republic it continues informally. More than three years after her time in office, Melany continues her fight against these informal unions with the support of Crecer Contenta and Plan International by her side.
– Emily Shapiro
Photo: Unsplash
Mental Health in Monaco
A Brief History
The history of mental health in Monaco reflects a gradual evolution from limited government attention and action to a more comprehensive and proactive approach involving multiple parties. Historically, mental health was not central to Monaco’s policy landscape. Despite this, the majority of people pay nothing for mental health services in Monaco because of full insurance, this is the same with psychotropic medicines.
The care and treatment of persons with mental health conditions including psychosis, bipolar disorder and depression is also included in the national health insurance or is reimbursed. As of 2020 the number of total treatment cases of psychosis, both inpatient and outpatient, was a population of 245. According to the Mental Health Atlas 2020, the government’s most recent legal effort to protect mental health dates back to 1981, which indicates a relatively long period with limited legislative emphasis on an essential aspect of health care.
This stasis changed with the introduction of the “Psychological Stability and Wellbeing” mental health plan in 2022. The government of Monaco, before this initiative, last implemented a mental health policy in 2014, according to the Mental Health Atlas 2020. Its lack of activity in this regard demonstrates a significant gap in addressing the evolving challenges of mental health, especially considering the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s unveiling of the new plan differed from previous limited approaches, emphasizing a more holistic and forward-looking strategy.
The New Plan
The “Psychological Stability and Wellbeing” mental health plan represents a landmark development, showcasing Monaco’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges comprehensively. Didier Gamerdinger, Monaco’s Minister of Health and Social Affairs, launched the plan in March 2022, according to the Government of Monaco. He presented it as a five-year initiative aimed at providing extensive health, medical and social services to individuals facing mental health challenges throughout their lives. The collaboration between numerous groups in Monaco including the Department of Justice, National Council, Monaco City Hall, Police Department, Department of Education, Youth and Sport, Department of Social Welfare and Social Services, Princess Grace Hospital, Office of Occupational Medicine, health care professionals and various charities, allowed for the creation of this landmark legislation.
This plan introduces a multifaceted approach, consisting of three main components: the promotion of mental health, prevention, and early identification of mental distress and addiction. With 53 actionable points outlined within these components, the plan aims to be a proactive and adaptable strategy to meet the evolving needs of the population of Monaco.
One notable aspect of Monaco’s mental health strategy is its emphasis on children’s health care and the development of expert-patient programs. By prioritizing these areas, the plan aims to empower individuals with chronic conditions, allowing them to take control of their health, improve their quality of life and enhance their understanding and management of their conditions.
In Conclusion
Overall, Monaco’s history with mental health has undergone a transformative shift, from a historical lack of central focus to the implementation of a progressive and comprehensive mental health plan. The recent initiatives reflect a commitment to providing accessible, extensive, and high-quality mental health services, as well as addressing societal challenges such as stigma and social inclusion. The ongoing efforts underscore Monaco’s dedication to fostering a mentally healthy and supportive community for its residents.
– Ani Gonzalez Ward
Photo: Flickr
Women’s Rights in Eritrea
Advancing Women’s Rights in Eritrea
In 1979, 14 years before the end of the conflict, the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) began its operations. The organization advocates for civil laws that protect women’s rights in Eritrea. Some other points of action by NUEW include work toward fair access to educational resources and minimizing poverty among Eritrean women. A 2023 UNDP report states that ever since Eritrea became independent, gender equality became a key focus of the Eritrean government.
Eritrean women today hold governmental positions and get empowerment through freedom of land ownership, amongst other gender equality reforms outlined in the country’s constitution. According to a 2020 report by the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), women occupied 22% of the parliament seats. Improved literacy also shows the progress of women’s rights in Eritrea. The literacy rates for girls increased from 54.8% in 2008 to 68.9% in 2018.
However, additional data shows that there is still more work necessary in advancing women’s rights in Eritrea. The World Bank Gender Landscape shows a 14% gap in labor force participation between the genders. It also shows that in the national parliament, men occupy 3.5 seats for every seat that women occupy.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
Despite Eritrea’s progress in gender equality as a result of women’s wartime contributions, women’s rights in Eritrea remain at risk. Traditions and cultural norms prevent the full attainment of gender equality.
The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) has had a steady decline since the 2007 ban. While this significantly reduced the harmful practice, a UNICEF 2021 report shows that FGM still takes place in some rural areas. In 2010, the prevalence of FGM was as high as 33.2% among girls under 15. In 2016, the percentage decreased to 3.8% among the same population.
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme is working toward the complete eradication of the practice by 2030.
With the Ministry of Health, of Labor and Social Welfare as well as the National Union of Eritrean Women, the program aims for its collaborative approach to work as a primary tool for the eradication of FGM. The engagement of the different institutions helps with the discussion of FGM beyond culture and tradition. They hold community events and open and communal conversations regarding this particular issue.
The program aims to raise awareness of its physical dangers and related health concerns, as well as introduce girls’ and women’s rights into the conversation. The same 2021 UNICEF report shows that 425 community events to discuss FGM took place in 2019 across a multitude of villages in Eritrea.
Human Rights Concern Eritrea (HRCE)
Elizabeth Chyrum founded Human Rights Concern Eritrea (HRCE), a nonprofit organization that highlighted different concerns regarding women’s rights in the country in 2017. The organization reported a continuous violation of women’s rights in the country and, therefore the breach of the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). According to HRCE, Eritrean women are at high risk of suffering from sexual abuse practices, stating that the subject is still taboo within parts of the nation.
HRCE’s targeting actions toward helping women in Eritrea include conducting interviews and research to better understand human rights violations against Eritrean women. The nonprofit also issues calls to action for the Eritrean government and aid agencies, advocating for easy access to sanitary products for women, protection of women in detention centers and support for women who are victims of harassment.
The Future
Alongside the work of organizations such as UNICEF and NUEW, the UNDP has proposed the Global UNDP Gender Equality Strategy for the years 2022 to 2025.
This strategy uses the “Six Signature Solutions” for the advancement of women’s rights in Eritrea. Instead of focusing on gender equality alone, the strategy targets other topics of concern, like the environment and governance, according to a 2023 UNDP report. UNDP looks at gender inequality in the environment and assesses that extreme weather, such as droughts, highly affects the livelihood of Eritrean women.
Among other advancements, the “Six Signature Solutions” aims to empower women by improving their access to business ownership. By also targeting governance, the UNDP looks for gender inequality in public institutions and does so by, among other initiatives, designating gender focal points in governmental offices.
Despite the country’s notable advancements, persistent challenges still threaten the full implementation of gender equality in Eritrea. Efforts by its government, alongside national and international organizations, highlight ongoing violations and emphasize the collective commitment that is needed to advance gender equality in the country.
– Paula Pujol-Gibson
Photo: Flickr
Gender Inequality and Women’s Treatment in Somalia
Current Picture
Somalia ranks fourth lowest in the gender equality index with one of the highest maternal and infant mortality rates in the world. The nation has a long history of gender inequality, male dominance, and mistreatment of women and children, which is brought up through generations. The reason why the country continues to see high levels of abuse in women and girls is because of society’s grip on the crisis.
In Somalia, a staggering 98% of girls deal with abuse. Girls between the ages of 9 and 15 experience sexual violence, exploitation and physical abuse. Without any legal framework protecting girls’ rights, about 35% of girls undergo child marriage, which contributes to the alarming number of abuse cases.
Most women and girls deal with genital mutilation, which is named the silent epidemic by Women of Concern Honouree, Ifrah Ahmed. She states, “Parents, communities, religious leaders, [and] elders still think that this is a tradition that should be kept and continued… There is no common understanding and awareness of the issue.” The main reason why there are still cases of this type of abuse is because of generational practice.
Maternal Health
Somalia is also one of the worst countries to become a mother. One out of 12 mothers in Somalia die due to pregnancy complications. A study in 2017 found that many causes of maternal deaths are preventable. According to the study, 25 of the 30 women refused to seek care because they believed that staying away from the doctor keeps them healthy. The lack of education and basing decisions on superstition contribute to the high levels of maternal mortality rate alongside scarce medicine in more rural parts of the country.
Why are women dying preventable deaths? It is because Somali women are denied the right to an education. The 2022 USAID report found that only 35% of women have some years of school. Only 25% of girls attended primary education in formal schools. The lack of education leads to a lack of skills that can help women become independent and prevent deaths.
Women have limited access to the justice system, which leads to more unresolved cases of gender-based violence, and the government continues to leave legislation on the drawing board. For example, the Somaliland Sexual Offences Law of 2018, which proposed prohibiting sexual harassment, remains to be implemented. The government does not prioritize women’s rights, even with women in the Parliament.
Organizations Improving Women’s Treatment in Somalia
Save the Children has urged the government of Somalia to prioritize the protection of women and children in response to the country’s ratification of many U.N. Human Rights Conventions, which led to the country committing to advance the rights of women and girls.
Somali Women Empowerment Organization (SWEO) is an organization that aims to unite and promote women’s abilities and roles in Somali society. The Somali Women Empowerment Organization is a nonprofit organization established in 2010 that focuses on training girls and young women in Somalia on how to get involved in politics through seminars. The goal is to inspire the next generation of women to fight for a shift in women’s rights.
U.N. Women is another organization that advocates for women’s rights, and its involvement in Somalia has it working extensively with the government and civil society to create programs, laws, and policies for women’s well-being. A crucial program U.N. Women are working towards is the Sustainable Development Goals, which advocates for girls and young women to aspire to participate in the fight for women’s rights. The program also helps create economic and social development, which is crucial when tackling gender inequality issues in the government.
– Sebastian Llerena
Photo: Flickr
3 Organizations Working Toward Poverty Reduction in Liberia
The Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development in Liberia is daring and has broad goals. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) outlined that Liberia seeks to eliminate poverty and hunger, bridge gender inequalities, provide comprehensive education and increase its people’s overall quality of health.
In Liberia, the number of households below the extreme poverty line increased to more than 50% as of 2021. Half of Liberia’s families live on less than $2 a day. Countries have tried many ways to tackle the problem of poverty. Some have worked, some have not and some are still being studied. The following are organizations working toward poverty reduction in Liberia.
3 Organizations Working Toward Poverty Reduction in Liberia
What’s Next?
Several initiatives and organizations are actively working to alleviate global poverty and support poverty reduction efforts in Liberia. While the examples mentioned above are just a few, there is hope for new opportunities that aim to create a safer and more equitable Liberia.
– Antonio Muhs
Photo: Wikimedia Commons