In the summer of 2019, one could have described a stroll through the streets of Istanbul or along the coast in Santorini as bustling. There would have been a great mix of cultures, languages and people around. Fast forward to 2020, and those same destinations were likely eerily empty, echoing the silence of the global tourism industry grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, 2023 presented a glimmer of hope. Air travel has made a remarkable comeback, with weekly numbers poised to surpass pre-pandemic 2019 levels for the first time in four years. Although annual figures have not fully recovered, the weekly trends of increased air travel are promising, highlighting the vital role of international tourism in the resurgence of developing economies.
Importance of International Tourism to Developing Economies
One can characterize many developing economies as “tourism-dependent.” These countries are usually small or isolated, such as Jamaica, Aruba or the Dominican Republic. Other larger countries, with still developing economies can be classified as heavily reliant on tourism, including Thailand, Greece, Croatia, Turkey and Mexico. These countries, having limited diversified economic streams, are prone to higher poverty levels and were hit particularly hard by the pandemic’s impact on the tourism industry. The percentage of the population classified as ‘the working poor’ is significantly higher in these countries, and the removal of a prominent economic stream exacerbated their challenges.
COVID-19’s Impact on International Tourism
The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet by a staggering 83% in 2020, with 2.40 billion tourists worldwide. This was an abrupt disruption for tourism-dependent economies, whose average net international tourism revenues were a significant portion of GDP in the years preceding 2020. Examples include the following nations and tourism’s contribution to their GDP:
- Croatia, 15%
- The Dominican Republic, 8%
- Thailand, 8%
- Greece, 7%
For the countries where economies are still developing and tourism makes up a significant part of the GDP, the sudden lack of tourism diminished revenue streams and removed jobs, which increased unemployment and negatively impacted the “working poor” the most, compounding poverty and its subsequent issues. A specific example of this is Santorini, where it is estimated that nearly 75% of the population depends on tourism for income.
COVID-19 Relief Initiatives and Their Impact on Tourism Industries
It is important to mention initiatives that were instituted to help combat the negative impacts of decreased tourism in these countries. In Greece, the government implemented a fiscal package of measures totaling about 13.7% of GDP in 2020, including loan guarantees, health spending, temporary financial support to vulnerable individuals, extension of unemployment benefits, support for short-term employment, subsidies to households and fiscal support to hard hit businesses, including the travel and tourism industry. The measures helped support those the lack of tourism impacted, as well as individuals living in poverty in the country.
Another example is Thailand, where a fiscal package amounting to at least 9.6% of GDP was instated, covering health-related spending, assistance for workers, farmers and entrepreneurs that COVID-19 affected, support for individuals and businesses through loans and tax relief, reduced water and electricity bills and measures to support local tourism. Specifically, this goal was to support travel and tourism industries through domestic travel, to mitigate the lack of international travel. From July 15 until October 2020, there was a tourism subsidy package, “We Travel Together,” covering up to 40% of travel costs for 5 million domestic tourists.
Despite these government issues, examination of tourism data, and GDP contracts indicate that support packages were not enough to compensate for the lack for international travel.
A Look at the Numbers
A comparison between 2019, 2020 and 2023 tourism numbers reveals the resilience and importance of developing economies. These countries saw the following changes in inbound tourism, for the listed years, respectively:
All figures represent international arrivals in the country and are in millions:
- Croatia: 19.6, 7, 16.2
- Greece: 34, 7.4, 17.4
- Mexico: 45, 24.3, 31.9
- Thailand: 39.8, 6.7, 19
- Turkey: 51.8, 15.9, 29.9
Evidently, in 2019, countries including Croatia, Greece, Mexico, Thailand and Turkey were prominent tourist destinations. Remarkably, they continue to rank highly in 2023. The countries are developing economies heavily reliant on inbound tourism. Increased air travel foreign arrivals to the nations is a promising sign of economic recovery.
Why it Matters
The pandemic caused an economic shock to these nations. For instance, Greece, which was projected to grow by 2.3% in 2020, actually contracted by more than 8% due to its reliance on tourism. Tourism plays a vital role in economic growth by supporting foreign exchange reserves, driving infrastructure investments, enhancing human capital, creating jobs and boosting income levels. Those living in poverty are most affected by changes in human capital and job creation. The resultant GDP growth fosters a positive cycle. With a continuing rise in GDP, countries can invest in their infrastructure, thereby further increasing international tourism as conditions improve. This will in turn create further job opportunities for the working poor and increase individual purchasing power.
Travel Today
Looking at 2023 so far, the resilience and adaptability of these countries, and of travelers, becomes evident. Croatia, Greece, Mexico, Thailand and Turkey, though not back at 2019 tourism levels yet, have proved remarkable recovery so far, especially prior to winter holiday travel numbers. Croatia has seen a 79% increase in international tourists since 2020, Greece is up by 81%, Mexico shows a 27% improvement, Thailand is the standout with a 96% growth and Turkey has surged by 61%. Crucially, tourism revenues in Turkey have shown a promising 23.1% growth to $13 billion in the second quarter of 2023, with 85.5% coming from foreign visitors. This signals a strong comeback in the country’s tourism industry.
Next Stop, Economic Improvement
In summary, while the COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on tourism-dependent economies, their resilience and the spirit of travelers are now leading to a resurgence of the industry. The rebound in international travel post-pandemic is intrinsically tied to the economic well-being of these countries. Improving economies in developing nations creates jobs, elevates GDP per capita, reduces poverty rates and enhances the overall quality of life. Increased air travel and international tourism serves as a catalyst for progress, shaping a brighter and more prosperous future for these nations and their people.
– Kailey Schwinghammer
Photo: Flickr
5 Charities Operating in Kenya
Between 2015 and 2019, Kenya experienced a 4.8% economic growth rate per year, reducing the percentage of people living on less than $2.15 per day from 36.5% to 27.2%. In light of these trends, the following charities operating in Kenya focus on poverty eradication by working with and empowering individuals to realize their full potential.
5 Charities Operating in Kenya
Looking Ahead
These five charities operating in Kenya substantially support citizens experiencing poverty throughout the nation. In addition to the organizations, several other charities and nonprofits are dedicated to eradicating poverty and empowering communities in Kenya. The work of these organizations continues to provide Kenyans with access to quality education and health care, and greater crop yield for farmers, supporting communities with the necessary toolkit to prosper.
– Sophia Loizos
Photo: Flickr
Everything To Know About Hunger In Uganda
Organizations like the World Food Programme (WFP) and Action Against Hunger are making amazing progress in the fight against poverty and are working to reduce the hunger problem in Uganda. Many factors contribute to the hunger crisis, and there is no quick solution to this global issue. Here are some factors contributing to the hunger crisis in Uganda.
Landscape
An outstanding natural landscape surrounds Uganda, and the climate is harshly impacted by its beautiful mountains, lakes and hills. Uganda’s tropical climate means it has plenty of fertile agricultural land that can feed 200 million people. Unsurprisingly, Uganda’s soil has captured the interest of many foreign investors, with the land’s potential for plentiful crop growth. While this may seem like a beneficiary for Uganda, it can also contribute to the problem of uneven distribution of produce amongst the population and Uganda’s overreliance on crop produce.
Climate
Uganda’s tropical climate has proven to be an issue for crop growth, which can lead to the spread of hunger. Its climate is known to often switch from prolonged torrential rain to extreme drought, thus making it difficult for agriculture to provide for families. This climate often results in a lack of surplus produce from farms, and many in Uganda remain hungry and unable to obtain sufficient food to sustain their families. This situation leads to many families lacking access to basic essentials such as cooking oil, fuel, beef, bread and rice.”
Agriculture
Given the climate’s impact on creating fertile and prosperous land, it is no surprise that agriculture significantly impacts the population’s prosperity and hunger rates. Approximately 84% of the population lives in rural areas, meaning that agriculture significantly impacts Uganda’s economy, as this overwhelming part of the population is over reliant on agriculture.
An overreliance on subsistence farming makes it difficult for families dependent on products grown on their land, leaving them vulnerable to the country’s tropical climate.
The unequal distribution of food and other essential goods greatly impacts hunger in Uganda. Limited infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, causes this unequal distribution, leading to food surpluses in some regions and food shortages in others.
Health Care
Malnutrition is a prevailing concern among women and children who cannot obtain reliable health care. Almost 30% of children in Uganda suffer from malnutrition, which leads to life-threatening conditions and stunting. The reality for many families, particularly those in rural areas, is that there is not enough education surrounding proper health care, thus leading to malnutrition and the spread of disease.
Action Against Hunger
Action Against Hunger fights against the hunger crisis in Uganda by educating families about proper health care and providing life-saving nutritional programs to those living in extreme poverty. This process includes educating mothers about proper nutrition. Action Against Hunger is helping decrease malnutrition rates in young infants and their mothers. The organization aims to reach as many individuals as possible, impacting 1,084,743 people in Uganda last year.
Action Against Hunger reaches out in Uganda through five refugee settlements that work towards preventing and treating malnutrition in young infants, children, pregnant women and mothers. They achieve this through educating the people on how to live healthy lives, helping create access to clean water and sanitation, and even assisting farmers to improve their yields.
The World Food Programme (WFP)
The World Food Programme (WFP) offers school meals to 418 million children around the world, guaranteeing them one nutritious meal a day. This aid has had a groundbreaking impact on the health of schoolchildren. By establishing a sustainable school meals program, WFP improves the lives of children around Uganda and creates a market for local smallholder farmers.
There is no quick solution to fix the problem of hunger in Uganda. However, by taking the necessary steps, initiatives like WFP and AAH continue to make a massive impact on the lives of many. These organizations have improved the standard of living for many by helping to reduce levels of malnutrition and by educating those living in poverty about proper health care and nutrition. While the battle against hunger continues to be a long and challenging path, these issues have decreased significantly over the past decade.
– Éadaoin O’Leary
Photo: Flickr
The Link Between Drugs and Poverty in Afghanistan
The Origins of the Drug Epidemic
Historically, Afghanistan has been one of the world’s largest producers of opioids, heroin and methamphetamines. However, the Taliban banned opium poppy farming in July 2000, and a UN report in May 2001 stated that there had been a “near total success of the ban.”
After the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, there was a notable spike in opium production, with a high of 8,750 tons of opium produced in 2017. Currently, Afghanistan is responsible for more than 80% of global opium production.
Despite most of the drugs being smuggled outside, Afghanistan is home to nearly 4 million drug users, amounting to 10% of the population.
Decades of war have fueled the link between drugs and poverty in Afghanistan. The return of the Taliban worsened the humanitarian crisis as major donors, such as the U.K. and the U.S., froze Afghan assets and refused to hand over billions of dollars worth of aid. Two-thirds of the population do not know where their next meal may be coming from, and it is the dire circumstances that have pushed people into both drug production and consumption.
Food Poverty
Poverty is impacting more than 90% of Afghan people, with more than half relying on humanitarian aid. About 91% of the average Afghan household’s income goes toward food expenditure, primarily due to the increased inflation levels.
Around 17.2 million Afghans are experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity, and nearly 3.4 million are experiencing emergency levels of food insecurity, as the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification categorized.
In an alarming report published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime in June 2010, an estimated 50% of drug users also gave their children the same narcotics. Many argue that the substances prevent hunger and remove starvation pain.
It has been reported that drugs not only create both behavioral and social problems but increase the likelihood of petty crime. In addition, there are also growing concerns about the risk of HIV spreading, as the sharing of contaminated needles used to inject drugs can cause diseases to spread.
There have also been reports of sex being traded for drugs, and the stigma within the conservative country has led to fears of many of these cases going under the radar.
The Scale of the Damage
Ultimately, Afghanistan’s drug problem is a lucrative business for many. The country itself has good connections to regional and global markets, and drugs that people manufacture in Afghanistan can end up all over the world.
Despite the Taliban enforcing a theoretical ban on the growing of opium poppy which helps synthesize the drugs, there has been a lack of practical enforcement as the sector generates around $2.7 billion annually for the Afghan economy. At a time when the country is on the brink of economic collapse, farmers who would otherwise have no source of income to feed themselves and their families desperately need the money.
For many Afghan farmers, if they can produce more money from growing opium poppy rather than traditional crops, it does appear to be the more obvious answer. While farmers can earn only 30 cents from 7 kilograms of tomatoes grown, they can earn almost $360 from selling 1 kilogram of opium, the United Nations reported in June 2023. The money that people earn from selling the drugs is what keeps families from falling deeper into poverty.
According to the UN, drug treatment and rehabilitation centers in major cities, including Kabul, have been overrun with recovering addicts and are struggling to cope. Kabul’s main treatment facility has 1,000 beds, and since the arrival of the Taliban, international funding has disappeared, and staff have poor training. A lack of food and medication has also meant that addicts have been shocked into detoxing, which can be catastrophic for recovery.
The UNODC’s Efforts
Given the fragile political climate, it has been difficult for developmental organizations to enter Afghanistan. However, in May 2023, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) brought professionals together in neighboring Uzbekistan to establish its Information Centre for Researching and Analysing Transnational Threats Related to Drugs and Crime. Salome Flores heads the Centre. Flores told the UN her team’s mission is “to produce knowledge that is objective, impartial and well-integrated for the right people at the right time.” Using satellite imagery and other tools, the Center aims to build an accurate picture of the scale of Afghanistan’s drug problem, which will help relevant parties to make informed decisions.
The Centre receives data from governments, social media, academic research and counterparts on the ground in Afghanistan to build an accurate picture of the scale of poppy farming in the country. In addition, the team combines ground surveys with satellite imagery to pinpoint where people are producing and cultivating the opium poppy.
The Centre is working to build the capacity of farmers and vulnerable communities in Afghanistan through partners and highlighting the importance of providing farmers with sufficient alternative income-generating crops and activities to ensure they do not turn to farming other illicit crops.
Looking Ahead
While the link between drugs and poverty in Afghanistan remains rife, there remains hope that the work of the Information Centre for Researching and Analyzing Transnational Threats Related to Drugs and Crime Centre can reduce the scale of the problem. Amid the rule of the Taliban, hope remains that with collective help, the international community can help address the issues plaguing Afghanistan and other countries impacted by the drug trade while bearing in mind the links between drugs and poverty in Afghanistan.
– Maryam Rana
Photo: Flickr
Tackling the Diabetes Crisis in Pakistan
Due to Pakistan’s unaffordable and lacking health care system, the country has the highest proportion of diabetes-related deaths among under 60-year-olds globally at 35.5%, particularly in areas suffering from poverty. Despite this, Pakistan spends less than 1% of its GDP on its health care system. Several organizations are working to address the diabetes crisis in Pakistan.
The Cause
As of April this year, the World Bank predicted Pakistan’s poverty rate would reach 37.2% of the population. The rate has decreased since 2018. However, due to the extensive population growth in Pakistan, the number of Pakistanis living below the poverty line has increased by 3 million.
Poverty primarily occurs among women and children, with malnourishment a vital factor in the diabetes surge in Pakistan. The influx of malnourished expectant mothers has led to an increase in the risk of and number of children born with Type 1 diabetes, an issue that has risen in line with Pakistan’s population increase.
As a result of Pakistan’s high poverty rates, there are high levels of illiteracy in rural areas. Many areas are not educated about the dangers of diseases like diabetes and its treatment and, therefore, are not able to recognize the issue until the severity has reached amputation or worse.
The lack of access to sporting facilities and public spaces for exercise, particularly in schools, has further progressed obesity across the population and, therefore, those at risk of diabetes. This progression has been worsened by Pakistan’s recent surge in consumption of fast and ultra-processed foods.
Although diabetes remains a preventable and manageable disease, the severe lack and unequal dispersion of health care and medication has heightened the impact and outcome of diabetes across Pakistan. As a result, health care and medicine often cost significantly more than the $3 average most earn in a day.
Pakistan’s Medical System
Pakistan spends less than 1% of its GDP on the health care system. The country runs a health care system comprising both public and private sectors; however, as much of the country is still developing and lives in poverty, the private sector is largely inaccessible.
The public sector is suffering under surging population growth, which has led to inadequate health infrastructure, including accessible hospitals and doctors. The sector is inadequately equipped due to shortages of medicine within the country and an uneven distribution of doctors – with many traveling overseas once qualified or into the private sector.
Pakistan imports more than 95% of its active pharmaceutical ingredients; however, the rupee’s highest inflation in decades has made purchasing and importing such products nearly impossible, and a massive decline in medicine production and availability has been seen since January.
As the diabetes crisis in Pakistan continues to grow, 30% of health care facilities have run out of life-saving insulin, and many of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical manufacturers have closed and left the country.
The availability of insulin is now inconsistent and unreliable, and the price has tripled for both hospitals and individuals.
Many Pakistanis have simply stayed at home, stuck living in poverty and unable to afford medicine or transport to hospitals that are inaccessible and inadequately stocked. As a result, death rates from diabetes have surged.
The Diabetes Association of Pakistan (DAP)
Since 1966, the Diabetes Association of Pakistan (DAP) has served Pakistan and prioritized and addressed the nationwide diabetes crisis. As a member of the International Diabetes Federation, it “strives to raise the quality of life in Pakistan through raising awareness of healthy lifestyles, management and prevention of diabetes.”
It provides education and support for all Pakistan residents at risk of or suffering from diabetes, as well as health professionals and children, to improve and reduce diabetes’ future impact. Its cost-free services include these efforts to address the diabetes crisis in Pakistan:
The World Diabetes Foundation
The World Diabetes Foundation ran another project addressing the issue of diabetes in Pakistan from 2015 to 2018. The project set out to improve accessibility to Diabetes Clinics and treatment across the country, including rural areas with mass poverty. Within the project, it was able to open up three clinics across Islamabad and Rawalpindi and offer training on diabetes to:
The project conducted 110 awareness and screening camps, and screened 12,699 across these areas with a mere budget of $134,739.
Although both were able to improve health care accessibility and diabetes education in Pakistan, resources and access are limited. With the Pakistani government’s support and funding, true change and improvement can be most impactful and widespread, especially in rural areas with high poverty levels.
By prioritizing education, affordability and accessibility to diabetes support and medication across Pakistan, the country’s health and economy have the potential to improve significantly in the future.
– Lucy Blake
Photo: Flickr
3 Ways Scotland’s Fight Against Poverty Is Benefitting People in Need
Scotland, with a population less than London’s, is one of the four nations comprising the U.K. While the British Government in Westminster has its own foreign aid budget, the Scottish Government based in Edinburgh has approved additional funding for its own international development program. Here are three ways Scotland’s fight against poverty benefits people in need.
1. International Development Fund
Scotland’s fight against global poverty is demonstrated through its International Development Fund (IDF). The IDF provides £10 million in development assistance and capacity strengthening across countries the Scottish Government has partnered with Malawi, Zambia, Rwanda and Pakistan.
The Scotland-Malawi Partnership receives a significant portion of its funding from the IDF, enabling it to promote development in Malawi. More than 300,000 people are involved across Scotland and Malawi to provide much-needed aid, such as raising £40,000 for emergency oxygen supplies and supporting Malawi through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Several high-profile figures, including former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and the leaders of other major Scottish political parties, have also praised the partnership. The President of Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, commended the Scotland-Malawi Partnership for its work raising funds and coordinating efforts, which he said showed the impact that Scotland’s fight against poverty can have in partner countries.
2. Humanitarian Emergency Fund
Scotland’s Humanitarian Emergency Fund (HEF) is a £1 million package aimed at helping people that natural disasters, disease and war endanger. Beginning in 2017, the HEF has helped support people during crises. People received help during famine in East Africa, floods in Pakistan and war in Ukraine.
Scotland pledged half a million pounds in 2023 to combat hunger in East Africa by improving access to vital food and water. This support is invaluable to the poorest people globally. For example, 5,000 people in Ethiopia’s Afar region received food aid after locusts destroyed their crops.
3. Funding Safeguards
The Scottish Government has a strict safeguarding policy for all its international development funding. Extremely high ethical standards are in place for the Scottish Government and its partner organizations. These standards prevent abuse and exploitation in the international development sector.
Research suggests that political elites in recipient countries can siphon money away from donations. Devastatingly, this would prevent efficient aid from reaching vulnerable populations. A strong safeguarding policy will help Scotland’s fight against poverty to have a positive impact where it is most needed.
While the funding Scotland allocates to international aid may be small compared to the amount needed to eradicate global poverty, it is refreshing to see the Scottish government increase its International Development Fund budget while the British government is cutting its foreign aid budget.
Scotland’s fight against poverty may seem like a small effort on the international scale. However, for the thousands of vulnerable people it has aided, it will be a crucial way to help them improve their lives.
– Jamie Paterson
Photo: Flickr
Addressing Child Marriage in Nigeria
Political Efforts
Child marriage remains prevalent in Nigeria due to the federal and state governments not implementing proper laws to prevent it. Passed in 2003, the federal Child Rights Act (CRA, 2003) prohibits marriage under the age of 18. Child marriage blatantly violates Nigeria’s constitution as well as the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Human Rights Watch says the states using Islamic legal systems have failed to execute the Child Rights Act and continue endangering young girls. In Sharia-legislated states, child marriage is justified through their traditional grounds, meaning they believe that adulthood begins with puberty. “It is disturbing that almost two decades after the Child Rights Act was passed, Nigerian girls are still being forced into child marriages,” said Mausi Segun, Africa director at Human Rights Watch on the HRW website.
External Influences
Married girls within the Imo and Kano states face heavy influences from traditional practices and family relations. In August and September 2021, Human Rights Watch discovered that child brides in this northern Nigerian region are “denied their fundamental rights to education, a safe dwelling, freedom from violence and often do not have access to adequate health care.”
Due to the lack of protection for adolescent females, their families force them into marriages, leaving these young girls with little bodily autonomy or individual rights. Global Citizen states that overall, Nigeria’s child marriage crisis stems from gender inequality, religious practices, patriarchal authority, family poverty, stigma around teenage pregnancy and a lack of enforcement of legal protections.
Positive Changes
The Spotlight Initiative, an active partnership between Europe and the United Nations (UN), supports ending all forms of harmful gender-based practices globally. Between 2019 and 2020, the European Union (EU) invested $35 million which was distributed to developing countries through five main categories: policy, institution, prevention, data and women’s movement and civil society. Additionally, in 2020, the Katsina State House Assembly passed the Child Protection Bill which ensures commitment and improvements towards ending child marriage. In November 2022, the Katsina State House Assembly eventually voted to adopt the Child Protection Bill, guaranteeing girls the necessary protection against sexual violence.
Organizations Fighting to End Child Marriage in Nigeria
Created in 2000, the Bella Foundation for Maternal and Child Care is a community-focused grassroots organization in Imude, Ojo, in Logos State. Bella Foundation decided to focus its work on ending child marriage in the Ojo Local Government because “it is one of the places in Lagos State with the highest number of cases,” founder Bella Akhagba reports. Akhagba believes that the solutions start with educating and empowering women, which is why the Bella Foundation trained 10 women specifically to speak as advocates to young girls in Nigerian schools. The team has received training in various skills so that “they are empowered to generate income for themselves and their families since poverty is one of the greatest causes of child marriage in South West.”
Bella Foundation advocates for policy changes and promotes the improvement of female health by spreading awareness within schools and communities. “Through mentorship meetings with the girls of Ojo, we have been able to change their mindsets and attitudes,” Akhagba added.
It’s Never Your Fault is another organization making efforts to end child marriage in Nigeria. Started by a group of friends in 2018, this nonprofit is attempting to ban child marriage in all 36 states across Nigeria by advocating for a change in legislation, since it is a loophole in their constitution’s legal jargon that allows it. Susan Ubogu, Kurdirat Abiola and Temitayo Asuni felt compelled to take action against child marriage in Nigeria and created their campaign #BanChildMarriageNigeria with hopes of changing the law via a Change.org petition. Since creating the petition on December 18, 2018, it has obtained 473,640 of its 500,000 needed signatures.
The organization petitions as a way to campaign for change, raise awareness, and “give a voice to girls who couldn’t speak for themselves.” From its platform, it began a #RaiseTheAge petition to try and urge the government to amend the constitution. Ubogu, Kurdirat and Asuni have begun focusing on workshops surrounding gender equality and partnering with Nigerian celebrities to raise awareness. In the future, it plans to work directly with victims of social injustice and find ways to rehabilitate or reintegrate these women back into society ethically.
Looking Ahead
The current trends suggest that there is a need for Nigeria to address contributing factors to child marriage to achieve positive change. Efforts could involve advocating for and implementing laws and policies that safeguard girls’ rights. Prioritizing the protection of children’s rights, fostering gender equality and empowering communities to challenge entrenched cultural norms are essential steps. By cultivating a society that values the well-being of its youth, Nigeria can potentially pave the path to a brighter future.
– Samantha J. Rentfro
Photo: Flickr
Increased Air Travel: Next Stop Economic Improvement
Importance of International Tourism to Developing Economies
One can characterize many developing economies as “tourism-dependent.” These countries are usually small or isolated, such as Jamaica, Aruba or the Dominican Republic. Other larger countries, with still developing economies can be classified as heavily reliant on tourism, including Thailand, Greece, Croatia, Turkey and Mexico. These countries, having limited diversified economic streams, are prone to higher poverty levels and were hit particularly hard by the pandemic’s impact on the tourism industry. The percentage of the population classified as ‘the working poor’ is significantly higher in these countries, and the removal of a prominent economic stream exacerbated their challenges.
COVID-19’s Impact on International Tourism
The pandemic caused international tourism to plummet by a staggering 83% in 2020, with 2.40 billion tourists worldwide. This was an abrupt disruption for tourism-dependent economies, whose average net international tourism revenues were a significant portion of GDP in the years preceding 2020. Examples include the following nations and tourism’s contribution to their GDP:
For the countries where economies are still developing and tourism makes up a significant part of the GDP, the sudden lack of tourism diminished revenue streams and removed jobs, which increased unemployment and negatively impacted the “working poor” the most, compounding poverty and its subsequent issues. A specific example of this is Santorini, where it is estimated that nearly 75% of the population depends on tourism for income.
COVID-19 Relief Initiatives and Their Impact on Tourism Industries
It is important to mention initiatives that were instituted to help combat the negative impacts of decreased tourism in these countries. In Greece, the government implemented a fiscal package of measures totaling about 13.7% of GDP in 2020, including loan guarantees, health spending, temporary financial support to vulnerable individuals, extension of unemployment benefits, support for short-term employment, subsidies to households and fiscal support to hard hit businesses, including the travel and tourism industry. The measures helped support those the lack of tourism impacted, as well as individuals living in poverty in the country.
Another example is Thailand, where a fiscal package amounting to at least 9.6% of GDP was instated, covering health-related spending, assistance for workers, farmers and entrepreneurs that COVID-19 affected, support for individuals and businesses through loans and tax relief, reduced water and electricity bills and measures to support local tourism. Specifically, this goal was to support travel and tourism industries through domestic travel, to mitigate the lack of international travel. From July 15 until October 2020, there was a tourism subsidy package, “We Travel Together,” covering up to 40% of travel costs for 5 million domestic tourists.
Despite these government issues, examination of tourism data, and GDP contracts indicate that support packages were not enough to compensate for the lack for international travel.
A Look at the Numbers
A comparison between 2019, 2020 and 2023 tourism numbers reveals the resilience and importance of developing economies. These countries saw the following changes in inbound tourism, for the listed years, respectively:
All figures represent international arrivals in the country and are in millions:
Evidently, in 2019, countries including Croatia, Greece, Mexico, Thailand and Turkey were prominent tourist destinations. Remarkably, they continue to rank highly in 2023. The countries are developing economies heavily reliant on inbound tourism. Increased air travel foreign arrivals to the nations is a promising sign of economic recovery.
Why it Matters
The pandemic caused an economic shock to these nations. For instance, Greece, which was projected to grow by 2.3% in 2020, actually contracted by more than 8% due to its reliance on tourism. Tourism plays a vital role in economic growth by supporting foreign exchange reserves, driving infrastructure investments, enhancing human capital, creating jobs and boosting income levels. Those living in poverty are most affected by changes in human capital and job creation. The resultant GDP growth fosters a positive cycle. With a continuing rise in GDP, countries can invest in their infrastructure, thereby further increasing international tourism as conditions improve. This will in turn create further job opportunities for the working poor and increase individual purchasing power.
Travel Today
Looking at 2023 so far, the resilience and adaptability of these countries, and of travelers, becomes evident. Croatia, Greece, Mexico, Thailand and Turkey, though not back at 2019 tourism levels yet, have proved remarkable recovery so far, especially prior to winter holiday travel numbers. Croatia has seen a 79% increase in international tourists since 2020, Greece is up by 81%, Mexico shows a 27% improvement, Thailand is the standout with a 96% growth and Turkey has surged by 61%. Crucially, tourism revenues in Turkey have shown a promising 23.1% growth to $13 billion in the second quarter of 2023, with 85.5% coming from foreign visitors. This signals a strong comeback in the country’s tourism industry.
Next Stop, Economic Improvement
In summary, while the COVID-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on tourism-dependent economies, their resilience and the spirit of travelers are now leading to a resurgence of the industry. The rebound in international travel post-pandemic is intrinsically tied to the economic well-being of these countries. Improving economies in developing nations creates jobs, elevates GDP per capita, reduces poverty rates and enhances the overall quality of life. Increased air travel and international tourism serves as a catalyst for progress, shaping a brighter and more prosperous future for these nations and their people.
– Kailey Schwinghammer
Photo: Flickr
Disability and Poverty in Armenia
Current Reality for People With Disabilities in Armenia
Estimates from the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) place the number of Armenians living with disabilities between 6.2% and 15%.
The following are some statistics on the living conditions of people with disabilities in Armenia:
An Increased Need
Between late September and early October 2023, there was a mass exodus of ethnic Armenians from the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. In particular, these ethnic Armenians fled to Armenia. This has only exacerbated the need to better address the interconnectedness of disability and poverty in Armenia. Of the more than 100,000 refugees, many are “vulnerable people including pregnant women, people with disabilities and others with chronic health conditions,” according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Additionally, Doctors Without Borders has reported that many of these new refugees experience symptoms of mental health issues. The World Health Organization includes mental health disorders, such as depression, in their definition of a disability.
Armenian Government Action
The current Constitution of Armenia, adopted in 1995, codifies the rights of Armenian citizens with disabilities to receive social security benefits from the government. For just under two decades since the passage of the current constitution, there was little to no new legislation protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities in Armenia, despite the government’s 2010 ratification of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This past decade, however, has shown additional progress in improving the lives of disabled Armenians.
In 2014, the Armenian government began to specifically tackle the issue of access to education for people with disabilities. The government passed the Law on Mainstream Education, which stated that every school in Armenia accept children with disabilities by 2025. Incorporating children with disabilities into the same school system as non-disabled children is called mainstreaming, and that is exactly where the law got its name.
Then, in 2021, the Armenian government passed the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This law officially banned discrimination on the basis of disability, ensured the right for people with disabilities to access reasonable accommodations and allowed nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to file lawsuits on behalf of a person with a disability who has faced discrimination, but does not have the ability to represent themselves in court. The law also created more passageways for people with disabilities to live independently instead of inside institutions, and allowed disabled Armenians the right to justice and accessibility.
Finally, in 2022, Armenia signed the Marrakesh VIP Treaty. This allowed libraries to create versions of books that accommodate those with “print disabilities,” including those who are blind.
NGO Action
With all the progress the Armenian government has made toward tackling the issue of disability and poverty in Armenia being interconnected, it is important not to forget the important work of NGOs. After all, it was Armenian NGOs focused on disability rights who fought for years for legislation such as the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
For everything the Armenian government has addressed, there have been NGOs on the ground working to address the same issues. Bridge of Hope, an NGO based out of Yerevan, Armenia, has provided accessible education to disabled Armenian children since 1996. Since the Law on Mainstream Education passed, Bridge of Hope has trained staff at 20 special education centers.
The Agate Rights Defense Center for Women With Disabilities, based out of Gyumri, Armenia, and Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities (EREO), based out of Vanadzor, Armenia, provide independent living for Armenians with disabilities. Its work combined has allowed many disabled Armenians to find meaningful employment. Countless disabled Armenians have benefitted from peer support and self-advocacy tools to better their own lives.
Looking Ahead
For those with disabilities in Armenia, there is hope. NGOs are working to combat stigmas and the lack of support numerous citizens face. The outcome of their work is destined to improve the lives of those facing disability and poverty in Armenia.
– Natalie Coyne
Photo: Flickr
The Promotion of Renewable Energy in Nigeria
Changing Weather Patterns in Nigeria
Consequences of changing weather patterns have increased the demand for plans toward clean energy. The floods from October to November 2022 are an example of the devastation it has caused, with more than 600 deaths, thousands injured and 1.3 million people displaced from their homes. Green energy policies work to limit the effects of changing weather by working toward the goal of carbon neutrality by 2060.
Transitioning to Renewable Energy
The ETP website highlights that “the next couple of decades present a unique opportunity to merge these two priorities: economic development and climate action, and to achieve in Africa’s largest economy, one of the world’s first true just transitions.” The website claims that renewable energy in Nigeria will lift 100 million people out of poverty and create up to 340,000 jobs by 2030 and 840,000 jobs by 2060. The transition creates opportunities for economic growth in new industries such as hydrogen, solar energy and electric vehicles.
The Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), the Energy Transition Academy (ETA) and the Africa Energy Program strive to educate workers on the switch to renewable energy. They collaborate with the Global Fellowship Program, which provides Nigerians with “a demand-driven curriculum to underpin the deployment and scaling of distributed energy resources that could unlock jobs and electricity access.” The program provides knowledge through on-site examples, leadership development and capstone projects. Dismantling the fossil fuel industry creates unemployment, but training the local workers fills the jobs needed to transition to clean energy.
Another way to involve the local community is by including them in the economic benefits of the clean energy movement. Community-led projects can implement new management strategies and tailor the projects to local needs. For example, the Sharing the Power project allows locals to be a part of an ownership structure, motivating more of the community to get involved in energy initiatives. Another example is the Energizing Agriculture Program, which connects clean energy technologies to the agricultural industry, the third largest economic contributor in Nigeria.
Promoting Gender Equality
Transitioning to renewable energy in Nigeria will promote gender equality and economic growth. The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) found that “only 32 percent of renewable energy jobs are held by women, who are among the most vulnerable to climate change.” In 2016, The Clinton Climate Initiative created the Women in Renewable Energy (WIRE) Network to combat the gender imbalance in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs. WIRE believes in educating women who desire personal and professional growth through mentorships and building connections in the energy sector.
Conclusion
Since 2021, Nigeria has made great progress toward achieving carbon neutrality. In those years, the country promoted community-led projects, initiatives for diverse populations and training for workers in transition. To meet its goal, Nigeria needs to continue investing in programs that direct the country away from fossil fuels and toward clean energy. Renewable energy technologies and countrywide economic growth are the answer to Nigeria’s growing socioeconomic needs.
– Diana Grant
Photo: Flickr
How Renewable Energy in Jordan Fights Energy Poverty
A Greener Jordan
Jordan’s initial investment into domestic energy was the National Energy Strategy Plan for 2007 to 2020. This plan sought a $20 billion investment in energy development, with a significant portion allocated to renewable energy projects. This plan led to the construction of many solar and wind farms nationwide. Throughout the 2010s, Jordan’s energy sector steadily incorporated renewables. The proportion of electricity generated by renewables in Jordan grew from 0.7% in 2014 to 13% in 2019.
The significance of renewable energy in Jordan has only continued to grow. In the government’s updated energy strategy for 2020 to 2030, the Jordanian government aims to increase the share of electricity generated from renewables to 31% by 2030. A target that Jordan is on track to exceed. As of 2022, renewables accounted for 27% of the total electrical energy produced, just 4% off their 2030 target. This trend has led to discussions within the Jordanian government to increase the target to a whopping 50% by 2030.
Green Initiatives Tackling Energy Poverty
The success of Jordan’s renewable energy sector has had tangible implications for the country’s quest to tackle energy poverty. Energy poverty has been a continual problem for the country, with studies in 2020 suggesting that 16% of the population qualifies as fuel-poor. This issue has been particularly prevalent in refugee camps in Jordan. In a 2019 United Nations report, the camps were identified as often lacking sufficient, reliable and affordable energy for electricity and heating.
While challenges concerning energy poverty remain, the Jordanian government has been utilizing its growing renewable energy sector to take on this issue. Various initiatives actively introduced assistance to help low-income households cope with energy poverty. For example, the government provided solar heater systems to 30,000 homes across the Kingdom for water heating.
The Jordanian government also utilized renewable energy to address the energy poverty faced by the students. In 2015, the government launched the Schools Heating Program to provide heating powered by solar energy. In 2021, 134 public schools implemented this program and plans to expand its coverage to include 3,700 public schools.
Looking Forward
While there is still work to do, Jordan is actively using renewable energy to address energy poverty. The substantial growth in the country’s renewable energy sector in recent years gives reason to be optimistic.
First, the growth signifies the development of the country’s energy security. In the medium to long term, this will increasingly protect the population from the price fluctuations of the international energy market. Furthermore, it creates further opportunities for introducing more initiatives that directly influence energy poverty, such as the ones mentioned previously.
–Joss Thomas
Photo: Wikimedia