Information and news on advocacy.

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Global HIV Infections and Deaths Are Declining

Global HIV Infections and Deaths Are DecliningGlobal efforts to combat HIV/AIDS have led to significant progress in reducing infections and deaths. Some countries are advancing faster than others, leaving vulnerable populations behind. As of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people were living with HIV/AIDS worldwide, with 53% being women and girls. Despite progress, disparities remain: while 83% of women aged 15 and older have access to treatment, only 72% of men in the same age group do.

Progress Through Antiretroviral Treatment

Antiretroviral (ART) drugs treat HIV by preventing the virus from replicating, which lowers the virus to undetectable levels and significantly reduces the risk of transmission to partners or unborn children. Since 2010, new infections have dropped by 39% and AIDS-related deaths have declined by 51%.

Despite this progress, challenges remain. In 2023, approximately 630,000 people died from AIDS-related illnesses, far from the United Nations (U.N.) target of fewer than 250,000 deaths by 2025. Over the past decade, new initiatives have expanded access to treatment in resource-limited countries, leading to significant improvements. However, barriers like HIV-related stigma, discrimination, social inequalities, national instability and conflict continue to hinder efforts to combat the epidemic.

Countries Leading the Fight

  • South Africa. Although South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV worldwide, it runs the world’s largest free ART program. Over the past 25 years, new HIV infections have decreased by 75%.
  • Eswatini. Eswatini has achieved the ambitious U.N. 95-95-95 target, meaning 95% of people living with HIV know they are living with it, 95% are on ART and 95% of those on ART are virally suppressed.
  • Thailand. Thailand was the first country to achieve the WHO organization mother-to-child transmission target of less than 2%. 

Countries Facing Significant Challenges

  • South Sudan. South Sudan’s ongoing conflict is exacerbating struggles with inadequate health care infrastructure and limited access to ART. UNAIDS and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) play a critical role by providing testing, treatment and advocacy. The on-the-ground charity Crown, the Women of South Sudan, additionally mitigated the social and economic impact of HIV and AIDS by improving awareness and giving psychosocial support to vulnerable groups.
  • Nigeria. The nation faces challenges such as insufficient funding, poor health system coordination and social stigma. The country’s ART coverage is below the global average and rural areas are especially underserved​. The United States (U.S.) President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is a major contributor in the country. In PEPFAR countries, there have been 52% fewer infections since 2010. The Indigenous NGO, the Society for Family Health, also contributes by increasing community awareness and access to treatment.
  • Philippines. The Philippines has the fastest-growing HIV burden, with a 237% increase in new infections and a 315% increase in AIDS-related deaths from 2010 to 2020. Additionally, since 2010, the number of new infections among men who have intercourse with men has increased by six times in the country. Love Yourself is one of the nation’s leading organizations working to combat the epidemic. 7,000 of its clients are on free treatment and since 2011, it has reached 5 million through its campaigns. Its focus also extends to providing mental health support to those affected.

Looking Forward

Global progress in the fight against the epidemic has led to a decline in new HIV infections and deaths, but challenges remain in several countries. While nations like South Africa and Eswatini have made significant strides, others, including South Sudan, Nigeria and the Philippines, continue to face barriers such as health care gaps and stigma. Efforts from international organizations and local charities are crucial in addressing these ongoing issues and advancing treatment and prevention globally.

– Georgia de Gidlow

Georgia is based in Watford, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Impact of UK Foreign Aid Cuts on Global Health and Education

Impact of UK Foreign Aid Cuts on Global Health and EducationThe United Kingdom (U.K.) government’s recent decision to reduce Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending has raised significant concerns among global aid organizations and policymakers. Announced in the 2024 Autumn Budget, this reduction lowers the U.K.’s aid commitment from 0.58% to 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) for the next two fiscal years, slashing approximately £2 billion from foreign aid funding. These U.K. foreign aid cuts bring the budget down to £13.3 billion in 2024-25 and £13.7 billion in 2025-26, reducing resources for global health, education and poverty alleviation programs.

Impact on Health Programs

Reducing U.K. foreign aid is expected to significantly impact health initiatives supporting some of the world’s most vulnerable populations. For decades, U.K. foreign aid has funded essential health programs, including vaccination campaigns against diseases like malaria, HIV and tuberculosis and maternal and child health services.

The U.K., for example, has been a major contributor to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. In 2022, the U.K. pledged £1 billion to the Global Fund over three years. This funding has helped provide antiretroviral therapy to about 23 million people living with HIV, distribute 133 million insecticide-treated nets to prevent malaria and detect and treat 5.5 million cases of tuberculosis. The cuts can potentially reduce the U.K.’s contribution, impacting these life-saving interventions.

Vaccination and Disease Prevention

Reduced funding could immediately affect vaccination and disease prevention efforts in low-income regions. U.K. aid or ODA has been instrumental in helping programs such as the Global Fund and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to supply vaccines and improve health infrastructure in Sub-Saharan Africa and other high-need areas. With less funding, these organizations may struggle to provide adequate immunization, increasing the risk of outbreaks.

Maternal and Child Health

Programs focusing on maternal and child health are likely to face significant challenges due to the cuts. An assessment by civil servants warned that thousands of women will die in pregnancy and childbirth and hundreds of thousands more will face unsafe abortions because of cuts to the U.K.’s foreign aid budget. For instance, the U.K. has been a key supporter of UNICEF’s maternal and child health programs.

In 2022, the U.K. contributed £39 million to UNICEF’s core resources. These funds have supported initiatives like providing skilled birth attendants and essential newborn care in low-income countries. A reduction in funding could limit the reach of these critical services, potentially affecting maternal and child mortality rates.

Clean Water and Sanitation

The U.K. has long supported clean water and sanitation initiatives in low-income regions. Reduced funding could limit the scale of these programs, compromising access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation in areas that need it most. This, in turn, could lead to a rise in preventable illnesses linked to poor water quality and inadequate hygiene.

Impact on Education Programs

The U.K. foreign aid cuts are also expected to have a significant impact on education initiatives in developing countries. These programs have been crucial in improving access to primary education, particularly for girls and children in remote areas.

A specific initiative that could be affected is the Girls’ Education Challenge (GEC), funded by the U.K. government. Since 2012, the GEC has supported up to 1.5 million girls in 17 countries to improve their learning outcomes and find pathways for progression. The program has been particularly effective in conflict-affected areas like South Sudan and Afghanistan.

Reduced funding could limit the scope and reach of such transformative programs. Moreover, support for education has been particularly affected by previous cuts, dropping from a high of 13.5% of the aid budget in 2013 to just 3.7% in 2022. Further reductions could exacerbate this trend, potentially leaving millions of children without access to quality education.

U.K.-funded programs have been instrumental in promoting girls’ education in many countries. The cuts may limit the reach of initiatives aimed at keeping girls in school, potentially affecting gender equality in education and long-term economic opportunities for women. 

Organizations Working to Mitigate the Impact

Despite the challenges posed by these cuts, several organizations are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact. Education Cannot Wait (ECW) is one such organization, a global fund dedicated to education in emergencies and protracted crises. ECW is actively mobilizing resources and partnerships to ensure that children in the most vulnerable situations continue to have access to quality education.

In 2022, ECW investments reached 7 million children and adolescents – 48% of whom are girls – with quality education in 32 crisis-affected countries. The organization has also leveraged an additional $1.1 billion in co-funding toward these programs. Such efforts demonstrate the ongoing commitment of the international development community to finding innovative solutions in the face of funding challenges.

Looking Ahead

While the U.K. foreign aid cuts pose significant challenges to global health and education programs, the international development community remains committed to finding innovative solutions. By supporting organizations like ECW and advocating for sustained investment in global development, organizations and individuals could work toward ensuring that the world’s most vulnerable populations continue to receive the support they need.

– Isabel Gallagher

Isabel is based in Dorset, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Concern Worldwide in Malawi Takes Action

Concern Worldwide Takes Action in Malawi Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, sees more than 70% of its population living in extreme poverty. After gaining independence in 1964, the Malawian government implemented a Poverty Monitoring System in 1994 to address rising poverty levels. Since then, various nongovernmental organizations have dedicated their efforts to improving the health and livelihoods of Malawians. Concern Worldwide, established in 2002, plays a crucial role in addressing multiple issues that contribute to poverty in Malawi.

Poverty in Malawi

A variety of challenges cause poverty among Malawians, including extreme weather variations, difficulty accessing globally traded goods, inequalities in food production and low access to health facilities. These issues result in an increased cost of living that is disproportionately impacting women and rural communities. A study from the National Library of Health describes the connection between income and the health status of families in rural Malawi. Research reveals that by increasing the overall income level by 10%, the average health status and level of well-being of Malawians improves by up to 1.2%. Concern Worldwide understands the crucial role the economy plays in health and poverty levels and takes action from multiple angles. 

Economic Impact

Research from the World Bank explains how economic growth directly affects mortality rates and life expectancy in developing countries. Additional factors such as income and income distribution, food prices, education and access to trading and transportation are primarily impacting the 80% of Malawians living in rural areas. Improving economic conditions requires changes in multiple areas of society by increasing the minimum wage, education and the household division of labor. 

RAISE Program

Concern Worldwide has taken action to improve the economic stability of the country by educating community members. The Raising Assets and Income for a Sustainable Environment in Malawi (RAISE) program, funded by the EU and Irish Aid, provides individuals from four districts in Malawi with a Business Skills Training course to encourage small businesses. This training, offered in Chikwawa, Mwanza, Neno and Nsanje, focuses on business management, risk vs reward and budget organization. Despite navigating literacy barriers, participants claim to have learned valuable skills to increase stability in sales and organization. Not only are entrepreneurs provided the knowledge to start their businesses, but they are also provided with a capital-funded transfer to start their enterprise. 

Health

In particular, rural Malawi’s low-income households, lacking access to medical resources or transportation to health centers, contribute to the lowest mortality rate. Researchers in the National Library of Medicine suggest public health and disease as the primary causes of decreasing mortality rates in struggling countries. Flooding furthers the spread of diseases and blocks roads, preventing access to centers.

To combat this, the organization is increasing the use of accessible technology to aid those who cannot make a trip to a clinic. Chipatala cha pa foni is a mobile hotline where young women and potential mothers can ask questions and hear advice from health care professionals. This program offers potentially life-saving opportunities to women struggling with their pregnancy or overall health. The organization is also implementing entertaining, educational methods to teach young girls about sexual health and reproduction. This helps younger populations be more aware of concerns such as AIDS, HIV, teen pregnancy and early marriage. 

Environmental Relief

Malawi relies heavily on agriculture to support its economy and feed its population. This makes the country dependent on the stability and predictability of the weather. However, Malawi is among the top 10 countries in the world impacted the most by turbulent weather changes. For instance, periods of high rainfall increase the spread of malaria through mosquitoes and flooding makes access to clean water more difficult, increasing the spread of cholera. Concern Worldwide combats agricultural disturbances by implementing Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) techniques. CSA is a form of conservation agriculture that prioritizes the land and its sustainability in the future regardless of unpredictable weather concerns.

Specifically, Concern was one of the first organizations to respond to Cyclone Freddy in 2023. The storm damaged more than 50,000 homes, destroying crops, roads, powerlines and livestock. In response, Concern Worldwide provided 45 camps for displaced families throughout South Malawi and sent blankets, mosquito nets and other supplies to impacted areas. Emergency funds were allocated to 2,000 families forced to rebuild their lives. 

Women

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has made commonly received goods unaffordable throughout Malawi. This increases the overall cost of living and contributes to poverty in an already struggling environment. Concern Worldwide analyzes the rising economic concerns through a gendered lens, considering how these challenges impact women. Malawian women especially lack access to financial responsibility, credit centers and household decision-making, which makes them vulnerable to inequalities in supplies and food production. By encouraging women to have a greater role in household decision-making and implementing a division of labor, families are better prepared to recover from disaster in the future.

A 2022 event featuring a panel discussion on the gendered impacts of the increasing cost of living in Malawi explains the economic and social issues women face and what is being done to address them. The discussion outlines the necessity of adopting a genderless approach to social protection systems to ensure women have equal access and support. The emphasis is on how prioritizing access to social protection programs for women in need can benefit the community long-term by reducing factors that contribute to poverty. In addition to encouraging women to enter the workforce, raising the minimum wage is considered an option to combat increasing costs. This would benefit the daily livelihoods of the workforce and boost the economy in life-changing ways.

Overall Impact

Despite various adversities, Malawi’s stability is gradually improving with the help of Concern Worldwide. This life-changing NGO offers aid and assists communities in protecting and rebuilding their livelihoods. By educating the workforce, supporting women, providing environmental and health care services and backing micro-businesses, Concern Worldwide empowers Malawi to support itself and require less aid in the future.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Strengthening Education in Brazil

Strengthening the Education System in BrazilBrazil, South America’s largest country with a population of 216.4 million, shows mixed results in education. Student performance declined in the latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), conducted by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Despite this, illiteracy rates dropped from 6.1% in 2019 to 5.6% in 2022, indicating some improvement in basic education. The country is experiencing increased outbound student mobility, driven by rising tertiary enrollments. Projections suggest Brazil will rank among the top five nations globally for total tertiary enrollments by 2035 despite an aging population. To address these ongoing challenges, the OECD and other organizations are collaborating to enhance Brazil’s education system.

Brazil’s Education System and Socioeconomic Progress

Education in Brazil is a guaranteed social right under the Federal Constitution, providing free public access at all levels. The education system is divided into basic and higher education. Basic education encompasses early childhood, primary and lower secondary and upper secondary education. Compulsory education begins at age 4 with pre-school and continues for 14 years through the end of upper secondary education. Historically, Brazil’s economic growth has benefited from favorable demographics and robust commodity prices. This growth, coupled with specific policies, has significantly improved living standards. Between 2003 and 2014, these efforts lifted more than 29 million people out of poverty, reduced child mortality by 73% from 1990 to 2011 and broadened access to basic education.

OECD’s 5 Steps to Strengthen Brazil’s Education System

  1. Impact of COVID-19 on Brazil’s Educational Funding. COVID-19 significantly affected Brazil’s economy, resulting in reduced education spending. The OECD criticizes the rigidity of this funding, which merely satisfies spending requirements without addressing effectiveness. The organization recommends a more flexible, outcome-focused approach to funding. According to the OECD, increased investment in education would substantially improve the quality of education that students receive.
  2. Enhancing the Teaching Profession in Brazil. To enhance Brazil’s education system, the OECD recommends upgrading the teaching profession. This upgrade should include better salaries, career progression and working conditions for teachers. The organization also suggests that new teachers pass a licensing test and receive induction support during their early years to ensure they have adequate training.
  3. Improving Teacher Effectiveness and Student Outcomes. Boosting student outcomes involves enhancing teachers’ effectiveness in the classroom. This could include proper teacher training and skill improvements in areas such as classroom management. Providing incentives, such as promotions and performance-based payments, can also motivate teachers.
  4. Creating a Positive School Environment. There is a need for improvement in handling bullying and harassment on school grounds, with appropriate punishments for offenders. Schools should strive to create a positive environment for both students and teachers to improve well-being and learning outcomes, reducing the risk of dropouts.
  5. Supporting Disadvantaged Students and Preventing Dropouts. Disadvantaged students should receive continuous support from early childhood education until they complete their education. To address dropouts, teachers should focus on supporting the weakest and least motivated students, possibly through individual teaching and tutoring. Students at risk should also receive additional funding and support to remain in education.

Looking Ahead

Brazil’s commitment to advancing its education system reflects the country’s efforts to prepare for future socioeconomic challenges. Prioritizing innovation, equity and effective resource allocation can potentially address long-standing disparities in education. By fostering collaborative partnerships and emphasizing strategic improvements in education, Brazil aims to create opportunities for all students, supporting both national development and individual growth.

– Indira Smith

Indira is based in Manchester and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Supporting Poverty Eradication Benefits Global Business

How Supporting Poverty Eradication Benefits Global BusinessWith more than 700 million people worldwide living in extreme poverty—defined as surviving on less than $1.90 per day—poverty remains a pressing issue that impacts both individuals and economies on a global scale. Businesses have a unique opportunity to contribute to poverty eradication while simultaneously achieving significant benefits, including brand loyalty, sustainable growth and stronger, more resilient supply chains. Supporting poverty eradication is not only a moral imperative but also a sound business strategy that aligns with long-term corporate sustainability goals.

The Business Case for Supporting Poverty Eradication

Poverty reduction creates economic opportunities that benefit businesses in various ways. As incomes rise, more people can potentially afford goods and services, directly expanding the consumer base for companies. For instance, when businesses invest in fair wages and decent working conditions, they build a more reliable, engaged and productive workforce. Supporting poverty eradication also cultivates a positive brand reputation.

Companies actively working to reduce poverty attract consumers who value corporate responsibility, as studies reveal, consumers increasingly favor businesses aligned with social impact initiatives. Moreover, poverty eradication promotes social stability, which is essential for a thriving global economy. Poverty often correlates with social unrest, political instability and migration issues, all of which can disrupt business operations and supply chains. 

Strategies for Businesses to Support Poverty Eradication

Businesses could support poverty eradication through strategic actions focused on fair labor practices, community development and sustainable supply chains. Here are three effective strategies:

  1. Ensure Decent Work Conditions. An effective way for companies to support poverty eradication is to ensure decent work conditions within their organizations and supply chains. Decent work, as defined by the International Labour Organization (ILO), includes fair wages, safe work environments and equal opportunities for all. A business that provides fair wages and adequate social protections enables its employees to achieve a higher standard of living, which lifts entire communities out of poverty.
  2. Adopt Sustainable Procurement Practices. Businesses have considerable influence as buyers, particularly in sectors that rely on extensive supply chains. By adopting sustainable procurement practices, companies can prevent poverty-related issues within their supply chains. For instance, businesses can conduct human rights due diligence to identify potential poverty risks, such as child labor or exploitative wages and address them directly. Sustainable procurement also includes sourcing materials from ethical suppliers and prioritizing fair trade partners, which strengthens global supply chains and reduces poverty.
  3. Invest in Community Development and Education. Investing in community development programs and education can create lasting social and economic benefits. Companies that contribute to local infrastructure, health or educational initiatives improve the overall well-being of the communities where they operate. Programs that provide skills training and resources for entrepreneurship empower individuals to generate income and establish local businesses, creating a multiplier effect that stimulates the economy and alleviates poverty.

The Global Impact

The global impact of business support for poverty eradication extends far beyond individual companies or communities. When businesses commit to poverty eradication, they contribute to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1: No Poverty. Such commitments promote economic inclusivity, gender equality and environmental sustainability, which are essential for a balanced global economy. As businesses align with the SDGs, they drive sustainable development and support the vision of a world where no one is left behind.

Supporting poverty eradication is also critical in addressing urgent global challenges such as climate change and migration. Poverty often forces people to rely on environmentally harmful practices like deforestation and overfishing, which exacerbate climate change. Additionally, poverty-driven migration can strain resources in neighboring regions, creating humanitarian crises. By helping eradicate poverty, businesses play a role in mitigating these interconnected issues, making a significant contribution to global stability and resilience.

A Sustainable Future Built on Poverty Eradication

Supporting poverty eradication is good for business and it fosters a sustainable future where companies, communities and economies can potentially thrive. Businesses that prioritize fair labor practices, ethical sourcing and community development enhance their reputation and build a loyal consumer base while contributing to global stability. By embracing these strategies, companies play a crucial role in creating an equitable world, ensuring a positive legacy that supports economic and social progress for generations to come.

– Olivia Barker

Olivia is based in Guildford, Surrey, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Changing Lives: Vaccinations in Timor-Leste

Vaccinations in Timor-LesteEast Timor, also known as Timor-Leste, shares its island with Indonesia in Southeast Asia. Despite possessing substantial oil and gas reserves, the European Commission classifies it as a Least Developed Country due to insufficient infrastructure and frequent food insecurity. The majority of Timor-Leste’s population relies on small-scale agriculture in rural areas, complicating vaccination efforts due to challenges in reaching these communities. Nevertheless, the country has made significant progress in immunizing its population against common, once-life-threatening diseases like polio and smallpox.

Challenges to Immunization in Timor-Leste

In East Timor, 75% of the population engages in small-scale farming in rural areas, making vaccination efforts challenging due to the sparse distribution of communities. The lack of robust infrastructure—from transportation to educational facilities—further complicates immunization initiatives. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted education, affecting 45% of East Timorese children. Moreover, the country’s inadequate infrastructure has left many areas difficult to access, hindering widespread vaccination coverage. Consequently, 8% of children in East Timor are ‘zero dose children,’ meaning they have not received any vaccinations. This issue was intensified by school closures in 2020 during the pandemic.

Vaccination Efforts

The East Timorese government boasts a commendable record of vaccination achievements. In the 1980s, it successfully eradicated smallpox, followed by polio in the 1990s, diseases from which Timor-Leste remains free currently. More recently, the country eliminated measles in 2018 and rubella in 2023. Health care workers, including WHO consultants, have been pivotal in ensuring comprehensive immunization coverage. They often conduct door-to-door visits in communities to administer vaccines directly to children who have not been previously immunized. Many children in Timor-Leste miss vaccinations because community health centers are kilometers away, requiring parents to take time off work—a luxury many cannot afford. This approach effectively reduces the logistical burden on parents and ensures children receive essential life-saving vaccines.

HPV Vaccinations

Timor-Leste introduced the HPV vaccine in July 2024, marking a significant achievement in public health. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with WHO, UNICEF and other organizations, efficiently managed the vaccine rollout. By the 23rd of Sept., just three weeks into the program, health care workers had vaccinated 90% of the target population of school-aged girls, totaling 56,350 out of the 62,000 targeted. The HPV vaccine is crucial for preventing cervical cancer by protecting against various types of human papillomavirus. In addition to administering the vaccine, health care workers also engaged in community education efforts to emphasize the importance of vaccinations for eradicating cervical cancer in Timor-Leste.

A Bright Future

Timor-Leste has made remarkable progress in vaccination, despite its status as a Least Developed Country struggling with poor infrastructure and connectivity. Effective leadership has enabled widespread immunization, significantly improving the health of the East Timorese people. With continued efforts from the government and support from organizations like WHO and UNICEF, Timor-Leste is well-positioned to enhance the well-being and happiness of its citizens.

– Callum Bennett

Callum is based in Colchester, Essex, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the Philippines

3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the PhilippinesAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), heart disease accounts for a third of deaths in the Philippines. Known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), it impacts the heart and blood vessels. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many in the Philippines have seen weakened immune systems, heightening their susceptibility to severe heart disease. Medical experts recognize a strong correlation between poverty and health issues in developing countries, where inadequate living conditions and sanitation can lead to health complications.

These countries often face a shortage of medical professionals. Research from the University of the Philippines highlights a significant gap in its health care system, particularly the low ratio of doctors to the population, which delays CVD diagnoses. To address these ongoing challenges, several organizations are stepping up to help, including the Children’s Heart Foundation, Gift of Life International and the Philips Foundation.

3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the Philippines

  1. Children’s Heart Foundation. Founded in 2000 by a group of volunteers, the Children’s Heart Foundation emerged from a successful fundraising campaign for a young patient with cardiovascular disease (CVD) a year earlier. The nonprofit organization dedicates itself to “helping economically deprived children with heart disease access quality medical care.” Its primary location in Makati City partners with the local Philippines Heart Center to provide financial assistance to patients completing their treatments. Additionally, the Children’s Heart Foundation offers social opportunities for patients to connect with others facing similar health challenges, enhancing their support network.
  2. Gift of Life International. Gift of Life International provides life-saving cardiac care to Filipino children suffering from heart disease. As a global organization, it has received significant requests for aid from the Philippines, particularly in Manila. By partnering with local groups, Gift of Life International has positively impacted more than 3,000 children there, investing $805,000 in its care. The organization’s outreach operates on three fronts: securing donations, handling requests for aid—whether from a country or for an individual child—and facilitating volunteer involvement in ongoing efforts.
  3. Philips Foundation. The Philips Foundation has launched an initiative in the Philippines to combat heart disease by detecting early signs of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). The foundation aims to reach half a million people in the Philippines, equipping employees to raise awareness about CVD and diagnose it before it becomes fatal. It uses innovative hand-held ultrasound screeners to accelerate the diagnosis process. Additionally, the foundation plans to train 200 teachers in these diagnostic techniques and general heart disease awareness. If successful, this initiative, known as its ‘pilot’ project, could expand further in the Philippines and globally. The Philippines was selected for this major initiative due to its critical need for enhanced heart disease care.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to combat cardiovascular disease in the Philippines continue to expand, bringing hope to many in need of critical care. By providing treatment, financial assistance and early diagnostic tools, dedicated organizations aim to reduce the incidence of heart disease and strengthen the health care system. As these initiatives progress, they pave the way for greater health equity and set a foundation for improved medical support across the country, especially for those most at risk.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Health Initiatives in South Asia

Unlocking Health: Collaborative Solutions for South AsiaHome to nearly 25% of the global population, South Asia is one of the world’s most populous yet vulnerable regions, facing extensive health disparities due to poverty, limited health care infrastructure and high disease burdens. South Asia has the second-highest number and proportion of the world’s extremely poor at a staggering 33.4%. In response, countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh have launched targeted health initiatives to address these ongoing challenges, especially for marginalized populations. 

Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, mobile health clinics are reaching remote communities, providing essential health care that would otherwise be inaccessible. BRAC, one of the world’s largest NGOs, has partnered with the government to deploy these clinics across rural areas, delivering crucial services to more than 20 million people annually. In addition to general health care, these mobile clinics offer antenatal and postnatal care, vaccinations and nutrition counseling, all of which are critical in a country where approximately 60% of the population lives in rural areas without easy access to health care facilities.

The Shasthya Shebika initiative, one of BRAC’s standout programs, trains local women to serve as health workers. With more than 50,000 Shasthya Shebikas operating in rural communities, this program reaches more than 80 million people across Bangladesh. The initiative has been shown to reduce maternal mortality in the areas it serves, highlighting the effectiveness of community-based health care support in reducing life-threatening childbirth complications.

Pakistan

In Pakistan, vaccination efforts have led to significant reductions in preventable diseases. Polio, once a widespread threat, is now close to being eradicated due to a massive vaccination campaign launched in partnership with UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). Since 1988, polio cases in Pakistan have dropped by more than 99%—from thousands annually to just a handful in recent years. In 2021, the campaign vaccinated more than 40 million children under 5 across the country, illustrating the reach and impact of sustained immunization efforts.

Pakistan’s Sehat Sahulat Program, a health care financing initiative introduced in 2015, provides health care cards to families earning less than $2 per day. The program currently covers more than a million families, providing them with up to $6,000 annually for medical expenses, including surgeries, maternal health services and emergency care. Studies reveal that households participating in the program are more likely to seek medical care early, reducing disease progression and associated health care costs.

India

In India, where infant mortality and malnutrition are significant challenges, programs like Saans and Poshan Abhiyaan are making measurable progress. The Saans Initiative, launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, trains community health workers to perform neonatal resuscitation, reducing neonatal mortality rates in rural and underserved areas. Studies reveal that trained health workers can reduce neonatal deaths by up to 20% in resource-limited areas, a statistic supported by Saans data from states like Madhya Pradesh, where the program is heavily implemented.

On the nutrition front, Poshan Abhiyaan (National Nutrition Mission) has been a cornerstone in India’s fight against child malnutrition. Launched in 2018, this program targets stunting, wasting and anemia among children under 5 and women of reproductive age. Since its inception, the mission has reached more than 80 million people across India. Data from the National Family Health Survey reveals a 6% reduction in stunting and a 2% reduction in wasting among children between 2016 and 2020, attributed in part to Poshan Abhiyaan’s focus on community-based nutrition programs, counseling and distribution of fortified foods.

Looking Ahead

The success of health initiatives in South Asia hinges on strong partnerships, leveraging local expertise and international resources to drive sustainable, large-scale impact. Collaborations between BRAC and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health, Pakistan’s Sehat Sahulat with GIZ and India’s Poshan Abhiyaan with UNICEF and the World Bank have empowered millions, reducing maternal mortality, nearly eradicating polio and lowering childhood stunting rates. Together, these ongoing initiatives transform health access and quality of life for vulnerable populations, creating a foundation for lasting health improvements across South Asia.

– Irtija Ahmad

Irtija is based in Slough, Berkshire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Variant Poliovirus Outbreaks and Vaccination rates in Yemen

vaccination rates in YemenYemen, a West Asian country with a population of 40 million, has seen a troubling decline in polio immunization rates. While Yemen was polio-free before 2020, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), national polio immunization coverage dropped from 58% in 2022 to 43% in 2023. This decrease reflects the fragility of Yemen’s health system amid ongoing social, political and security crises. Over the past three years, health officials have reported 273 cases of variant poliovirus outbreaks, a situation exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis and falling vaccination rates in Yemen.

Global Health in Yemen

According to USAID, 19.7 million people in Yemen do not have access to basic health services. In Yemen, only 52% of health facilities are fully functional and most of these lack equipment, essential medicines and specialist physicians—a slight improvement from 2014, when only 46% of health facilities were partially functional. The mortality rate for children under 5 stands at 41.3 deaths per 1,000 births. The deteriorating state of the health care system has facilitated the re-emergence of preventable diseases like polio. UNICEF and WHO are actively collaborating with the country’s health systems to improve these conditions. Furthermore, more than 17 million people in Yemen struggle with food insecurity and 4.5 million are internally displaced due to ongoing violence, economic crises and recurring outbreaks of disease exacerbated by climate events, contributing to the near collapse of the country’s health care infrastructure.

UNICEF Vaccinations 

UNICEF announced a second round of oral polio vaccines for 1.3 million children under the age of 5 from July 15 to July 17, 2024, following a successful first round in Feb. that reached 1.2 million children. In collaboration with WHO and Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population, the organization also distributed vitamin A supplements to boost children’s natural immunity against diseases. The immunization campaign targets 12 southern governorates and 120 districts, with approximately 9,000 health workers trained for house-to-house vaccination. This effort is a response to a polio outbreak that left 257 children paralyzed.

Health Initiatives

Peter Hawkins, the UNICEF representative to Yemen, stated that eradication of diseases is achievable if every child receives vaccinations against poliovirus and other preventable diseases. In collaboration with various partners and organizations, UNICEF is pushing forward the Big Catch-up initiative, aiming to restore and accelerate routine vaccines and immunization services missed during COVID-19. Additionally, health partners and authorities have initiated the Health Emergency Expansion Resource (HEER) initiative to extend integrated primary health care services, including vaccinations, to address polio and measles outbreaks.

Looking Ahead

Collaborative efforts by global health organizations are essential to restoring Yemen’s health care system and halting the spread of preventable diseases. Recent campaigns and health initiatives demonstrate a concerted push to increase vaccination rates in Yemen and enhance primary care access for millions. As these initiatives progress, they offer renewed hope for improving the resilience of Yemen’s health care infrastructure and protecting vulnerable populations, especially young children, from further outbreaks.

– Indira Smith

Indira is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Wellcome Trust Tackles Neglected Tropical Diseases in Nigeria

Neglected Tropical Diseases in NigeriaThe Wellcome Trust is a global charity organization established in 1936 that focuses on research and providing support for mental and physical health challenges throughout the world. The organization specifically addresses neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) in Nigeria, such as Lassa fever, monkeypox and dengue. Through addressing NTDs, Wellcome Trust tackles complex health issues and contributes to socioeconomic development in Nigeria. Nigeria is home to the highest numbers and diversity of neglected tropical diseases throughout sub-Saharan Africa. To treat these diseases, it is necessary to prioritize research to diagnose those infected and implement treatment early on to minimize fatalities. 

Addressing Lassa Fever

Lassa Fever, endemic to multiple African countries, hit Nigeria hard in 2018 with the country’s largest outbreak. More than 20% of cases were fatal. The disease infects blood vessels, attacking the organs. Only about 20% of cases show recognizable symptoms, complicating diagnosis and containment efforts. Currently, no vaccines exist for this potentially fatal disease, making research into diagnosis and treatment a critical priority.

The Wellcome Trust, a major supporter of infectious disease research, funds the Centre for Infectious Disease and Research Policy (CIDRAP), which has developed a plan to address Lassa Fever in Nigeria. This Research and Development (R&D) plan aims to advance vaccine research for various strains of the disease, identify gaps in current research and prioritize filling these gaps.

Working closely with the United Kingdom (U.K.) Department for International Development, these organizations have funded about £500,000 to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the African Coalition for Epidemic Research, Response and Training (ALERRT) to support Nigeria. This funding boosts projects that enhance research, expand access to laboratory work and benefit local clinics and health centers.

Addressing MPOX

Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) is endemic in most African countries. A significant increase in cases occurred in Nigeria in 2017, prompting the WHO to enhance regulations to contain the disease. Like Lassa fever, Mpox presents various strains across different countries. Most cases arise in rural areas, often causing up to a two-week delay between symptom onset and treatment due to challenging access. To tackle this, the Wellcome Trust plans to collaborate with FIND, an organization developing a point-of-care rapid test to accelerate the diagnosis process on-site before verifying the data in a lab. Through this approach, the organization aims to reduce fatalities and decrease the stigma associated with this visibly impacting disease.

Addressing Dengue in Nigeria

Dengue, a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, is most prevalent in tropical climates. Diagnosed individuals suffer from high fevers, headaches and muscle and joint pains. The innovative research tool E-DENGUE enables local governments to prepare for outbreaks months in advance. According to the WHO, half of the world’s population is at risk of contracting dengue. E-DENGUE, currently a desktop platform, integrates data from various sources instead of relying solely on case studies. Researchers are working to develop this tool into a mobile app to enhance accessibility.

Urbanization, climate challenges and limited health care access complicate efforts to contain dengue, which is endemic in every state in Nigeria and ranks among the most fatally misdiagnosed diseases in Africa. The concern over dengue is often underestimated as health professionals struggle to accurately identify the disease. They lack consistent treatment methods due to insufficient tools and research.

Strategic Health Initiatives and Funding

The Trust has succeeded through research and community health programs that enhance awareness, prevention and treatment of diseases. Addressing these issues not only improves health and quality of life but also boosts economic benefits by increasing work productivity and reducing poverty. As of 2022, the Wellcome Trust plans to invest £16 billion in health research by 2032, focusing on discovery research, climate and health, infectious disease and mental health. It advances these areas by prioritizing research funding, advocating for global policy changes and fostering innovative research environments.

Looking to the Future

Since 2018, the Wellcome Trust and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) have engaged in a productive collaboration through the Joint Initiative on Research in Epidemic Preparedness and Response (JIREP). This initiative funds research and medical support worldwide. The collaboration aims to tackle well-known diseases, assist countries in preparing for outbreaks and integrate social sciences and policy development in responding to global epidemics.

The Wellcome Trust’s strategies have significantly improved access to treatment and quality of life by enhancing research and funding for neglected tropical diseases in Nigeria. Furthermore, advances in technology have shortened diagnosis times, leading to quicker recoveries and fewer deaths. Indeed, this efficiency helps individuals resume work and daily activities, supporting their families and breaking the vicious cycle of poverty and disease.

– Lauren Sellman

Lauren is based in Rochester Hills, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr