Archive for category: Aid

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Taipei Christmas Market Gifting Aid For Ukraine

Taipei Christmas MarketAs New Year’s Eve celebrations died down, Taiwan Stands With Ukraine (TSWU), an international Taiwanese volunteer movement, transformed Christmas cheer into meaningful support through a Taipei Christmas market gifting aid for Ukraine. Ukraine is entering its fourth year under Russia’s invasion. Since February 2022, approximately 10 million people have fled the country. As of fall 2025, Ukraine is still experiencing severe poverty with an estimated rate of 36.9%, which is significantly higher than the poverty rate of 5.5% to 24.1% before and during 2022. The invasion has set Ukraine back by approximately 15 years.

A Taiwanese organizer who identifies as “Jen” founded TSWU, which consists of Ukrainians, Taiwanese and international volunteers who mobilized around the invasion’s onset. It serves to support Ukrainians through volunteer-led efforts and government backing. TSWU uses its funds to provide humanitarian and medical aid to Ukrainian refugees, children and elders who have resettled in Taiwan. The booth acquired donations at the Taipei New Year’s Eve Party that took place from December 26 to December 31, 2025, serving the same humanitarian purpose.

Amid the festivities and market stalls during the celebration, TSWU distinguished itself by organizing a Taipei Christmas market gifting aid for Ukraine.

The Ukrainian Booth

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, annually holds a New Year’s Fair in the Xinyi District. The fair itself features live performances, a countdown celebration and department stores that illuminate the city during the holidays. TSWU’s booth, which opened on the fourth day of the fair, blended culture and festivity with charity through the Taipei Christmas market gifting aid for Ukraine.

The booth collected donations through the sale of unique Ukrainian souvenirs and the performances of traditional Ukrainian Christmas carols. Participants could also join the educational workshops to create Malanka masks and didukhs. The souvenirs ranged from traditional crafts to original artworks and festive treats. Traditional festive Ukrainian folk songs echoed throughout the district and along the streets near the Taipei 101 skyscraper, allowing the public to experience Ukrainian traditions.

This year’s booth featured multiple students from Zhenzhi National University and Taiwan National University under the guidance of their instructor, Su Yuxuan. It brought Ukrainian and Taiwanese volunteers together with local residents, not just to share Ukrainian culture, but to inform them of Ukraine’s current conditions.

TSWU’s Previous Successes

Since its formation in response to Russia’s invasion, TSWU has done multiple projects that have delivered aid to Ukraine from Taiwan, the Taipei Times reports. It has raised a total of 4.5 million New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) since February, 2022. It has also raised enough money at Taipei’s Europe Festival in 2023 to buy two ambulances and medical supplies for Ukraine. Since September 17, 2024, Ukraine has purchased a total of six ambulances, which helped medical personnel evacuate more lives, deliver aid and reduce fatalities.

Taipei’s 2025 European Countries Festival highlighted Ukrainian culture, thanks to TSWU’s collaboration with Leleka, another organization aiding Ukraine. They sold Ukrainian souvenirs, clothing, treats and more to raise funds for aid. The organization has also collaborated with other Ukrainian aid organizations such as Kids 2 Kids, Through The War and OBOZ. In July 2024, TSWU transferred 518,624 NTD to Ukraine and its collaborators. One contribution funded renovations to make the first floor of Through The War’s shelter wheelchair accessible. In recognition of donor support, TSWU has given small tokens of appreciation ranging from stickers to custom name patterns.

Conclusion

Ukraine continues to face deepening poverty and hardship as the invasion persists. However, efforts by nonprofit organizations such as TSWU continue to provide meaningful support with engaging cultural exchanges. Compassion takes many forms, including quieter ones. While modest in scale, the Taipei Christmas market gifting aid for Ukraine helped maintain global attention on the invasion and reinforced a sense of international solidarity across communities worldwide.

– Cindy Nguyen

Cindy is based in Albuquerque, NM, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Marienstüberl: The Beating Heart of Poverty Relief in Graz

Poverty Relief in GrazWhen it comes to urgent, everyday aid for individuals living on the poverty line in Graz, a city in Austria, Marienstüberl is reliably there every day, every week, every year. It is a safe and warm place for marginalized individuals to eat together, socialize and receive practical assistance from the dozens of volunteers who keep the operational cogs in motion every day of the year. As director Adam Lamprecht puts it, it is where vulnerable individuals “find peace and quiet and experience community.”

Migration to Austria

Since 2010, migration to Austria has been increasing due to conflicts in the Middle East, with the majority of migrants coming from Syria, Afghanistan, Iran, the Russian Federation, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalia and Georgia. Today, there are also many refugees from Ukraine, all seeking a stable life situation in one of Europe’s wealthiest countries. Wherever these communities originate geographically, there is a common theme that migrants face overwhelming bureaucratic and language barriers that hinder their integration into Austrian life.

With many still struggling to get a foot on the employment ladder, many end up in financial precarity.

Marienstüberl

This is where organizations like Marienstüberl come in. Located in the center of Graz, a few minutes’ walk from the main train station, Marienstüberl shares a large building with Caritas Steiermark. This umbrella organization oversees numerous social initiatives throughout the county. Large food deliveries, mass cooking and food distribution operations take place under one welcoming roof.

It is a place where vulnerable people can go every day for a warm meal and take free food boxes for themselves and their families. For many, it is their second home.

Food Collection

Marienstüberl addresses immediate needs, including food, warmth and shelter, directly. At 7:30 a.m. sharp, the van leaves with two volunteers ready to start their day with some heavy lifting. Years of networking and building a strong reputation as the center of poverty relief in Graz have led to fruitful partnerships with commercial supermarkets, including Spar, Billa and Pennymarkt, many of whose branches set aside unsold food for donation to Marienstüberl.

Often, a small bruise is enough for fruit and vegetables to be set aside, while yoghurts, pastries and bread form the bulk of the donations. With approximately eight supermarkets to visit before 10 a.m., this is physically taxing work. And it does not stop there. A throng of volunteers meets the van upon arrival and the donations are quickly sorted into nutritionally balanced food boxes ready for distribution.

For many, this is a lifeline. With migrants facing continual pushbacks and barriers to receiving state support, these donation boxes are both welcome and necessary.

320 Meals a Day

Meanwhile, the kitchen hums with activity, preparing more than 300 meals for the day. If there are leftovers, they serve perfectly as a snack to serve later in the day for any latecomers. In fact, Marienstüberl’s kitchen is so renowned that it has just released a cookbook.

The book features some of Styria’s most beloved dishes, some designed by esteemed local chefs and, of course, some of Marienstüberl’s own favorites and marks a major milestone. All proceeds will go directly to supporting the marginalized, migrant and refugee communities that frequent Marienstüberl.

30 Years of Poverty Relief in Graz — And Many More To Go

The cookbook marks the 30-year milestone for the organization. According to Caritas director Nora Tödtling-Musenbichler, the cookbook “builds a bridge between different worlds,” allowing those who cannot afford to put food on the table to go somewhere safe and enjoy a warm meal with others.

Indeed, as demonstrated by its thriving relationships with local supermarkets, Marienstüberl occupies a very special place in the Graz community. Attracting generosity from far and wide, major institutions such as Graz University Hospital and the cleaning company Saubermacher are establishing fundraising initiatives to support Marienstüberl.

Conclusion

Every day, every week, every year, Marienstüberl proves to be a close ally for those living in poverty in Graz. It would not be what it is without its extensive volunteer network. With hundreds supporting the cause, Marienstüberl’s contribution to poverty relief in Graz is vital and it shows no signs of slowing down.

– Saroj Spickett

Saroj is based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Norway’s Poverty Reduction: What We Can Learn From It

Norway’s Poverty ReductionNorway is a small country with around 5 million people; however, despite its size, it has become a global leader in poverty reduction. Norway consistently ranks among the top contributors to international development aid, despite its limited hard power. In 2024, the Norwegian government pledged nearly $500 million to the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA).

This represents a massive 50% increase compared to previous commitments. Norway’s poverty reduction plan largely reflects its belief in strategic investment in global stability, rather than a charity case to be disregarded.

Foreign Aid Contributions

In 2025, Norway provided approximately $228 million in humanitarian aid for 13 crises. These funds went to places like Chad, Gaza and Ukraine, aiming not only to raise awareness of the issues but also to meet the needs of those in need as sustainably as possible. Similarly, it increased funding to the World Bank and the U.N., aiming to target food security, electricity access and climate resilience.

The country’s approach of providing immediate relief, such as water, shelter and medicine, paired with long-term development and governance support, helps ensure that these countries are provided with a stable aid relief plan. Norway’s multi-year agreements with aid organizations, worth nearly $1 billion, reflect a strategic and sustained commitment to relief services.

What Makes Norway’s Model Effective?

Norway’s aid relief plan remains largely effective due to its consistently high levels of aid, regardless of economic uncertainty. Similarly, it participates in strategic partnerships which allow institutions to provide legitimacy and an amplified impact. Not only does Norway consistently rank as a leading European aid donor, but it also does not see poverty aid as “charity.”

It ensures that it is consistently viewed as an overarching justice issue by allocating nearly 1% of its Gross National Income (GNI) to foreign aid.

Lessons for Other Countries

Norway remains an exemplary nation for the rest of the world in terms of generosity and commitment, demonstrating that investing abroad only strengthens stability at home. It expertly managed to tackle climate and poverty issues simultaneously, providing a “future-proof” model of development. The aid Norway provides is successful in creating jobs and fostering expertise in companies across the country and worldwide, thereby enhancing its domestic stability.

Not only has Norway successfully set an example for addressing issues such as climate instability and global poverty, but it has also proven that small states are capable of leadership, demonstrating that influence stems from commitment and credibility. By aligning its policies with the U.N.’s 2030 Agenda, Norway became a member of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty in 2024, promoting collective, institution-led solutions that scale impact. The country has also shown that aid works best when it is strategic rather than reactive, relying on multi-year planning and rights-based frameworks to deliver deeper, longer-lasting results.

Overall, Norway’s poverty reduction approach is strategic, principled and future-focused. As global crises continue to intensify, other nations can learn from Norway’s willingness to commit to long-term solutions. Its model shows that effective aid is built on consistency, accountability and planning—not short-term reactions. 

– Megan Burrows

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

Photo: Unsplash

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How Mutual Aid in Sudan Helps Women

Mutual Aid in SudanThe ongoing humanitarian crisis and military conflict in Sudan have severely disrupted state structures and the effective delivery of international aid. As a result, the Sudanese people now rely on volunteer groups that have practically replaced the national service networks. Mutual, women-led aid groups have formed a critical network of sustenance and support, especially for the most vulnerable populations, including women and children.

The Many Aspects of Help

These are some of the ways mutual aid in Sudan has provided support for nearly two years to date:

  • Provides essential products for women, such as sanitary items, personal hygiene supplies, first aid kits and supplements for pregnant women. According to United Nations (U.N.) estimates, more than 15 million women and girls are among the most vulnerable, facing scarce health care and rampant malnutrition.
  • Creates support groups to help individuals cope with the extreme realities of war. Mental health support is offered through both online and in-person meetings. Mutual aid in Sudan provides not only material goods but also safe spaces where women and girls can seek understanding and share their experiences.
  • Organizes shelter and schools, along with child-friendly spaces and day care groups. Sudan’s crisis has caused large-scale displacement. In response, mutual aid groups work to place women and children in safe locations, whether with host families, in repurposed administrative buildings or in refugee camps, building a protective safety net around families.
  • Educates women and girls in mental health, as well as breast cancer awareness. Mutual aid in Sudan focuses not only on direct emergency response but also on spreading information through economic and practical skills projects. These educational efforts aim to ensure that beneficiaries can use the acquired skills to improve their quality of life not only during the ongoing crisis but also after the situation stabilizes.
  • Secures food and water supplies. Volunteers form associations that focus on growing fruit and vegetables. Aid groups donate the produce to community kitchens and sell the surplus to fund other activities. Despite funding shortages, community kitchens remain a vital lifeline for many families and continue operating with the support of aid groups. Volunteers also respond to immediate needs, such as providing water to areas with disrupted supply due to issues like defective wells.

Women Power Sudan’s Aid Network

The mutual aid network consists of more than 700 groups across the country. Most of the groups are built of and led by women. The volunteers receive 95% of all donated funds to act on the ground and the network is mostly self-reliant.

Main channels of communication and planning are social media, especially Facebook, where volunteers interact with each other, as well as people in need. Sudanese citizens rely heavily on the aid provided by the mutual response network for day-to-day crisis management.

Bringing Water and Hope

Mutual aid in Sudan not only provides essential support to women and children affected by the humanitarian crisis. Volunteer groups also bring hope and a sense of solidarity. As one of them, Ibrahim, explains: “The beautiful thing is that we come together and spend time doing this, which is therapeutic and purposeful. Beautiful values have emerged from this hardship and I hope they will continue afterward.”

– Patrycja Pietrzak

Patrycja is based in Cyprus and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Pediatric and Neonatal Medical Aid to Niger

Medical Aid to NigerNiger, located in West Africa, is one of the world’s most impoverished countries and is classified by the World Bank as a low-income country. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Niger has a young population, with 24.8% of the Nigerien population aged between 0 and 14 years. Additionally, the neonatal mortality rate in Niger is 34.15 per 1,000 live births.

Similarly, the mortality rate of children under 5 years old is 117.07 per 1,000 live births, as indicated by WHO data. Therefore, pediatric and neonatal medical aid is crucial to the national public health of Niger. Improving public health is an important aspect of reducing extreme poverty in Niger. Charitable projects that provide pediatric and neonatal medical aid to Niger include those launched by Galmi Hospital, Samaritan’s Purse, CURE International, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) and the African Neonatal Association.

The aid supplied by these charitable organizations encompasses governmental vaccination partnerships and outpatient nutritional rehabilitation services. It also includes surgery for congenital disabilities and untreated trauma, the facilitation of global neonatal research in Africa, as well as the operation of neonatal and pediatric wards.

Pediatric and Neonatal Public Health Programs in Niger

Galmi Hospital is a nonprofit organization hospital in Niger operated by Serving in Mission International. Galmi is located 470 km east of the Nigerien capital city, Niamey. The hospital believes that children are precious to the heart of God. The under-5 clinic at Galmi Hospital provides medical care to approximately 100 infants daily.

Galmi Hospital has a partnership with the Nigerien government to supply vaccinations to children within the regional area of Galmi and its surrounding communities. In addition to this, the outpatient nutritional rehabilitation center of Galmi Hospital cares for infants below the age of 5 who are underweight, stunted or wasted. Malaria, dehydration due to diarrhoea, pneumonia, sickle cell disease, meningitis and malnutrition occur frequently among pediatric in-patients at Galmi Hospital.

Many of these diseases are easily preventable through vaccines against measles and pertussis; however, tragically, due to widespread poverty, medical resources are limited. Galmi Hospital proposes the construction of a specialist pediatric ward to effectively cater to children with illnesses.

The Samaritan’s Purse charity launched a new medical health care center in the Reguou village of Niger in 2021, which has had very high malnutrition rates for many years. The center has a specialist focus on aiding pregnant mothers and malnourished children. A significant decrease in malnutrition rates, an increase in children being vaccinated and improved public health are the successes of the new health care center.

Samaritan’s Purse had been active in Niger before the new launch through the provision of medical treatment for cholera, the opening of nutritional projects and mobile medical clinics. Local medical professionals and the director of Samaritan’s Purse for Niger celebrated the launch of the new health care center.

Neonatal Medical Aid to Niger

The African Neonatal Association is a group of African neonatologists and pediatricians specializing in neonatal care across the continent. Advocacy, education and research by the association help to improve the medical aid available to neonates in Africa. The study conducted by the African Neonatal Association increases opportunities for global neonatal research in Africa and promotes synergy among researchers working with neonates in Africa. It also supplies validated research to support the provision of the best possible neonatal care.

Hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy or birth asphyxia, sepsis and prematurity are the most common causes of mortality among newborns in Africa. The pharmaceutical medicinal products and medical equipment needed to provide medical aid to newborns in Africa are relatively inexpensive; however, sound logistics are crucial for effectively administering neonatal medical assistance to the African continent, including Niger. According to the African Neonatal Association, the number of neonatologists is limited and neonatal nursing is not yet recognized as a specialty, highlighting the significant need for neonatal medical care in Niger.

Pediatric and Neonatal Surgical Missions to Niger

CURE International is a nonprofit charity founded by an orthopedic surgeon and his spouse to provide high-quality surgical treatment to children in need across developing countries in Africa and beyond. Bowed legs, clubfoot, burn contractures, cleft lip and cleft palate, genu valgum, osteogenesis imperfecta, windswept legs and untreated trauma encompass a range of malformations. CURE International operates pediatric hospitals to provide surgical care for these conditions.

Three sisters who received surgical treatment from CURE Niger for the genetic congenital disability osteogenesis imperfecta suffered from fragile bones that broke frequently, resulting in mobility difficulties and an inability to walk. More than 12 surgical operations and months of recovery were required before the sisters were able to walk following treatment. CURE Niger is the only hospital in Niger that offers specialized surgical medical care for children with treatable physical disabilities.

Obstetric Medical Aid for Neonates and Infants

MSF provides obstetric medical aid through a maternity ward in an MSF-operated hospital in the Madaoua district of Niger to decrease the mortality rate of newborns. The MSF hospital in Madaoua also operates an inpatient therapeutic feeding center, in addition to neonatal and pediatric wards. In the Dungass district of Niger, MSF launched a 200-bed pediatric unit and supported the coordination of other pediatric units nationwide.

Final Remarks

The provision of pediatric and neonatal medical aid is a vitally important part of reducing extreme poverty in Niger. Improvements in overall national public health boost the country’s economic development. Many international aid projects by charities and other organizations have helped facilitate pediatric and neonatal medical aid in Niger.

– Deborah Asante

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

Photo: Flickr

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Managing Global Aid Cuts

How to Handle Global Aid CutsGlobal aid funding has recently undergone a significant reduction, catching many aid beneficiaries off guard. Major donors like the United Kingdom (U.K.) temporarily reduced overseas development assistance, and the United States (U.S.) paused and suspended many programs. However, human ingenuity knows no boundaries. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have started shifting strategies and coming up with innovative approaches to manage the reductions. These include shifting toward impact investing, reorienting humanitarian responses for greater sustainability and empowering local organizations. All of the solutions exhibit great resilience in underdeveloped parts of the world and provide hope for the vulnerable.

Impact Investing

Disruption of financial flows from traditional sources has forced some NGOs to start thinking more about private investors. In other words, it is about redesigning international development to function as investments. While the social impact of new projects remains a priority, generating income arises as a new factor to consider. This way, aid organizations can diversify income sources, preventing overreliance.

It requires NGOs to adapt their work, though. Investor partners will not feel confident about impact investing unless there is greater transparency and accountability of actions. New projects must set clear measurable objectives and be able to effectively demonstrate success to attract funding.

This, however, is not a novel approach. Some international organizations like Mercy Corps have been involved in impact investing for around 10 years now. In 2015, they established the Social Venture Fund (SVF) to support innovative ventures with a positive social impact. Scott Onder, the managing director of the fund, said that “the organisation recognised that the traditional grant-based model of funding international development can be limiting and rarely promotes […] flexibility.” Money from SVF gathered from private investors was used in Kenya to set up Lynk, a platform connecting workers and businesses in need of services, or Arifu, a site offering learning tools to improve income and escape poverty.

By shifting focus from government grants to attracting individuals and private firms, NGOs can manage the reduction of aid budgets globally and aim to maintain a stable budget allowing continuous development work.

Reorientation of Humanitarian Response

Reduced aid budgets have forced beneficiaries to start thinking outside the box. While sustainability has usually been a central focus of many humanitarian projects, its importance becomes undeniable nowadays. Help can no longer assume constant flow of grants but has to reorient itself to design resilient and robust projects that can survive all kinds of crises and shocks.

For instance, the recent Kenyan law amendment represents such change. Since as early as the 1990s, the country has hosted almost a million refugees in designated camps across the country. These relied on funding from the U.S., which was mostly used to cover essential services like food and protection. To offset the impact of reductions, greater focus has been placed on integration of refugees. As Refugees International says, “the new policy would transition camps into settlements by granting refugees the right to work, freedom of movement, and property ownership.”

Another type of reorientation for sustainability is anticipatory action, a strategy already employed by some large international actors like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Anticipatory action is still primarily concerned with the social impact but also considers cost-efficiency. Addressing problems before they appear reduces repair and recovery costs while saving lives. For instance, Shaheda, a Bangladeshi woman, received support from FAO before the anticipated floods predicted to hit her region in July 2024. A silo donated to her helped protect fodder, seeds and other valuable belongings, allowing her to replant afterward.

Local Organizations Taking Over

The decreased international cooperation has forced local organizations to step up, forming another approach toward aid cuts. Local actors are becoming more4 engaged in helping their communities. Their extensive knowledge of the area, the people and the circumstances is often superior to international aid organizations.

In South Sudan and Kenya, it is the national actors that are leaders in delivery of life-saving help to isolated areas that are frequently out of reach for non-locals. The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) urges a strengthened and more cohesive cooperation between international organizations and local ones.

A report into the impact of global aid cuts conducted by CAFOD frames the situation as an opportunity for local organizations to strengthen their role in humanitarian responses. Already, their contributions are valuable and sufficient to contribute substantively to food security reduction, based on their presence in South Sudan and Kenya.

Interview with The Borgen Project

An interview with The Borgen Project and Joy Ojinmah, the executive director of Unique Royal Sisters (URS), reveals firsthand experience of managing a grassroots NGO in times of global aid cuts. URS is a group helping female sex workers, the LGBT community and young girls in southeastern Nigeria. In the conversation, URS acknowledged the impact of the cuts and said that their partners and the community they work with felt it as well. Reduced funding makes it difficult to access some of the essential commodities needed for their work, including HIV test kits, PrEP and STI treatments.

“We are trying our best. Most of us started from scratch without having any donors of course. We started working for our community just for the passion that we have for the community,” she said. Despite not having enough funding, they keep their work going, looking for domestic financing or coming up with cost-efficient workarounds like promoting WhatsApp contact with their clients to save on transportation costs. Some operations were able to be restored by collaborating domestically with Caritas Nigeria or Abia State Action Control on AIDS.

Even with restricted funding, URS identified 22 new HIV-infected clients over just three months. However, Ojinmah stresses their impact could be much bigger with higher funding, considering they were only able to operate in 4 out of 17 local governments in the state of Abia. Despite challenges, she remains confident in the abilities of URS and hopes “to have the recognition and support we actually need to keep pushing.”

Looking Ahead

Overall, despite the obstacles posed by global aid cuts, NGOs and grassroots communities keep innovating and working toward their goals. Whether it is impact investing or redesigning current projects, the hopeful and determined people like Joy from Unique Royal Sisters keep fighting for the world to become a better place.

– Karol Hejduk

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

Photo: Flickr

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BLB: UK Towns Helping Developing Countries

BLBRecent cuts to international aid spending have not stopped U.K. towns from supporting developing countries. One way they continue to foster global cooperation is through town twinning, a formal partnership between two towns in different countries that operates independently of national governments. This scheme gained popularity following World War II as a means of promoting peace and understanding among different nations.

Town twinning enables U.K. towns to help developing countries by providing a pathway through which cultural and technological aid can be donated directly to the places that need it most.

Greenwich and Tema

The London Borough of Greenwich was twinned with the town of Tema, Ghana, in 2000, partially due to both towns being situated on the Earth’s prime meridian line. Since then, annual youth exchanges have enabled students in both cities to experience another culture and share what they have learned with their communities.

In 2005, the Greenwich Council sent a converted bus, filled with books and second-hand computers, to Tema, to be used in local schools. Technological aid from U.K. towns helping developing countries can be vital in improving the quality of life in the recipient town.

Barnet and Pokhara

In 2024, six councillors from Barnet Borough Council traveled to the borough’s twin town of Pokhara, Nepal. They were invited by Pokhara’s mayor, Dhana Raj Acharya. They visited the town’s World Peace Pagoda along with other museums, schools, hospitals, historical venues and environmental landmarks — a week-long delegation aimed at strengthening cultural ties and collaboration.

Their visit followed a devastating plane crash in Pokhara on 15 January 2023, which had prompted an official condolence message from Barnet and the borough’s flag to fly at half-mast at Hendon Town Hall.

Calderdale and Musoma

Calderdale in West Yorkshire established itself as one of the U.K. towns helping developing countries when the town’s council helped pay for an officer from the town of Musoma, Tanzania, to complete a business studies course at the nearby University of Huddersfield. This is an example of educational aid being used to enhance the governance of a town in a developing country, thereby improving its capacity for development. Direct aid has continued through donations of sewing machines to Musoma, all of which were refurbished in Calderdale.

Chesterfield and Tsumeb

Chesterfield open-air market in Derbyshire was used as a model for the Namibian town of Tsumeb’s own market, after some of Chelmsford’s traders agreed to advise the Tsumeb Municipal Council during its construction. The former Mayor of Chelmsford, Adrian Kitch, along with his wife, Inger, also donated funds to help build the Tsumeb Women and Children’s Center. They emphasized the importance of U.K. towns supporting developing countries during their tenure in office.

Bristol and Puerto Morazan

Every year, the town of Bristol in Southwest England hosts Fairtrade Fortnight. In this event, Fairtrade coffee producers from around the world are encouraged to meet and discuss how to operate the industry in a manner that is fair to local growers.

Coffee is a major export across Nicaragua, including in Bristol’s twin town of Puerto Morazán. Local farmers there benefit from programs that help them earn a larger share of the profits from their coffee.

Bristol and Beira

A friendship agreement was signed in 1990 between Bristol City Council and the Southern African Resource Centre (SARC), linking Bristol with the town of Beira in Mozambique. SARC was founded earlier that year by the Bristol Anti-Apartheid Movement as a means of enabling U.K. towns to help developing countries provide aid to deprived communities, outside of the restrictions imposed by pro-apartheid governments.

The towns’ ongoing relationship is currently managed by the Bristol Link with Beira (BLB) group. BLB “currently aims to find funding in the U.K. for at least two projects per year in Beira, each valued at £5,000 [about $6,500],” says the group’s trustee Caroline Pitt in an interview with The Borgen Project. Previous investments have included the “Economic Resilience” scheme that provided “microfinance, small business training and horticultural goods for women farmers.” Another initiative, the “Support for Teachers” program, offered office furniture, computer equipment and ICT training to several schools in Beira.

Pitt says that BLB’s long-term objective is to enable “small-scale projects (that) are aimed at beneficiaries in the poorest country in Southern Africa” to have positive impacts which spread “to positions outside of Beira.” This process enables aid projects targeting individual twin towns to benefit a wider region or country, as those who have received educational or technological assistance utilize their new skills to support others better. Pitt cited one of BLB’s young women mentors, who went on to work as a U.N. Women Peace Champion, as an example of the scheme already having widespread benefits.

In addition to funding aid projects in Mozambique, BLB aims to foster cultural links between Bristol and Beira. This has previously been achieved through a series of civic exchanges, most recently the mayor of Beira Adel Sofala’s visit to Bristol in 2017. BLB also runs an annual photography competition.

The event provides photographers from Beira with the opportunity to have their work displayed in Bristol, thereby gaining increased publicity. It also enables Bristol’s citizens to gain a deeper understanding of life in Mozambique. Pitt says that BLB has also directly benefited Bristol by contributing “to the global citizenship of Bristol through a Schools Teaching Pack.” This aims to improve children’s geographical knowledge and encourages them to empathise with their counterparts across the world.

The Importance of Town Twinning

Future cuts to the U.K. government’s international aid spending may risk damaging relations between the country and many of the developing countries that rely on its aid. It is therefore vital that British towns that intend to improve relations with towns in developing countries have a means of doing so in a mutually beneficial way. Through town twinning schemes, such as BLB, Pitt believes that “we can encourage cities to look outside themselves” and continue to provide international aid, independently of national governments.

– Billy Stack

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

Photo: Pixabay

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Amazon’s Disaster Relief Hubs and Hurricane Melissa Relief Efforts

Amazon's disaster relief hubsThe world is currently in the midst of hurricane season and Hurricane Melissa, a category five storm, hit the island of Jamaica hard. Hurricane Mellisa has killed many people and displaced many more. However, some major corporations have contributed to the Hurricane Melissa relief efforts. Here’s a look at the impact Hurricane Melissa has had on Jamaica, as well as some of the relief efforts underway in response to it.

Hurricane Melissa’s Impact

A recent NBC News report stated that Hurricane Melissa killed 32 people in Jamaica and described it as the most devastating storm ever to make landfall in the country. The British Red Cross also noted that more than 30,000 Jamaicans have been displaced, with the number rising daily. Hurricane Melissa’s financial toll is also being felt throughout Jamaica.

According to a recent report by Reuters, the storm could cost Jamaica as much as $7 billion, a conservative estimate. Experts say that all totaled, Hurricane Mellisa could cause a 30% drop in Jamaica’s GDP, severely weakening its economy.

How Amazon Is Helping

In 2021, Amazon opened its first disaster relief hub in Atlanta, Georgia. It subsequently built 14 additional disaster relief hubs, strategically placed in areas prone to disasters, to assist with a variety of natural disasters. According to WSB-TV Atlanta, the Amazon disaster relief hub in the city is sending emergency supplies to Jamaica. These include a range of portable technology solutions designed to power and connect hospitals, police stations and emergency operations in Jamaica.

The hub can deploy up to 1.4 million pre-packaged relief items within 72 hours of a natural disaster. According to Amazon’s website, its disaster relief hubs are stocked with muck and gut kits to help with flooding, hygiene kits to keep people clean and sensory kits to help children who may be overwhelmed by staying in shelters. These kits provide them with noise-canceling headphones, a weighted blanket and toys.

The WSB-TV Atlanta report also notes that since launching in 2021, Amazon’s disaster relief hubs have supported more than 190 disaster zones. Additionally, they have delivered more than 26 million relief items.

Conclusion

Hurricane Melissa has had a devastating impact on Jamaica — one that will be felt for years to come. However, relief efforts from Amazon’s disaster relief hubs, as well as collaboration with a host of nonprofits, are expected to strengthen recovery efforts. Furthermore, efforts will help to ensure that displaced residents have homes to return to.

– Charlie Means

Charlie is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Setting a Precedent: History of Turkish Humanitarian Aid

Turkish Humanitarian AidTürkiye is a country primarily located in Western Asia, with a small western part in Southeastern Europe. It is one of several donor countries that were formerly recipients of aid. With increasing economic prosperity and a population of around 85 million, Turkish humanitarian aid is becoming increasingly important on the international stage.

Historical Transformation

In 1947, Türkiye joined the World Bank and only three years later took out its first loan for agricultural infrastructure. Back then, the income per capita was a modest $166. This made the country eligible for funding from the International Development Association (IDA) on attractive terms with low interest rates. For four consecutive years, IDA provided concessional financing, helping the country boost economic growth and achieve stability.

In a rapid turnaround, Türkiye became an IDA donor itself as early as 1973. Turkish people have experienced an impressive journey to prosperity. Nowadays, income per capita is more than $15,000, placing the country in the high-income category. As the country’s economic status progressed, so did the role of international development in its foreign policy.

The country launched its first state aid program in 1985, donating $10 million to help strengthen government institutions in several African countries, including The Gambia, Senegal and Sudan. Four years later, these efforts were centralized with the creation of the Turkish International Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA). The agency was established in response to the emerging humanitarian needs in Central Asia following the collapse of the Soviet Union and the formation of new independent states.

Since then, Turkish humanitarian aid has rapidly expanded and now reaches a far wider range of regions. As a new donor, Türkiye has been increasingly influential. Between 2006 and 2009, its overseas development assistance (ODA) levels exceeded the global average, reaching $707 million.

In 2010, Turkish humanitarian aid had reached more than 130 countries listed by the OECD as recipients of aid. In the early 2000s, among emerging global donors, Türkiye was second only to South Korea, another excellent example of transformation from recipient to donor.

TIKA

TIKA has worked on 30,000 projects across 170 countries, showcasing Türkiye’s importance on the international humanitarian stage. Its work is multi-sectoral and includes support for accessible and clean energy, agriculture, clean water, education, emergency humanitarian aid and many other areas. At first, the organization focused primarily on countries in the region due to its historical ties with Turkic communities in Central Asia and shared linguistic roots.

These similarities with Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan made aid efforts easier and helped strengthen international relationships. However, with globalization, TIKA expanded its operations significantly, growing from 12 foreign offices in 2002 to 63 today. Some of the recent projects TIKA has carried out include improving health services in Zambia, renovating health centers in Venezuela and providing solar-powered lamps to Syrian villages.

The projects are also designed to be sustainable, helping recipients achieve financial independence. For instance, TIKA promotes qualified beekeeping in Tunisia to help vulnerable members of society secure a stable income. Besides funding up-to-date equipment, TIKA has also provided training on honey production to ensure efficiency. The focus on the honey business aims to help people take advantage of the potential that the industry holds in Tunisia.

IHH

The IHH Humanitarian Relief Foundation is another Türkiye-based organization with a significant international impact. Since 1992, it has helped people in need regardless of whether they have been victims of war, natural disasters or political repression. Its work in around 123 countries across five continents has resulted in international recognition, as evidenced by multiple honorary memberships in organizations such as the United Nations Economic and Social Council and The Union of NGOs of the Islamic World.

The work IHH does focuses on poverty-stricken countries, including emergency aid, human rights advocacy, humanitarian relief and education campaigns. Its support is transparent and has recently been centered around Palestine. Since October 7, it has delivered more than 37 million hot meals, 200,000 food parcels, 120,000 hygiene kits and clothing to 140,000 people, making a real impact.

A mission carried out by IHH in Kolonda, a small town in Mali, shows the tangible support that international aid provides to people in need. When the Turkish volunteers arrived in town to drill a new water well, residents informed them that their makeshift well was too old and no longer functioning properly. Seriba, one of the villagers, explained: “When the drought arrives, water becomes extremely scarce […] and sometimes it gets so muddy that we can’t use it.”

The newly implemented solution, however, will provide the 800 residents of Kolonda with a new well, making it significantly easier to access clean water.

Conclusion

Overall, the impressive transformation of Turkish humanitarian aid and the country’s status on the international stage is setting a precedent for other emerging donors. The Turkish state and non-state aid organizations are increasingly active in global relief and development efforts. This inspiring example seems to be similar to that of several countries, such as South Korea and Poland, which were once recipients and have recently emerged as donors.

These emphasize the real impact of aid and the importance of global assistance in times of reduced aid activity globally.

– Karol Hejduk

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

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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4 Female Artists Supporting Developing Countries

 

female artists supporting developing countriesMany female artists have used their platforms to participate in charity work, speaking out for and providing aid to developing countries in need. Here are four female artists you may not know who contributed to the development of countries in the developing world.

Zara Larsson

Zara Larsson is a Swedish pop artist who made her international debut in 2015, known for many hit songs including “Lush Life,” “Ain’t My Fault,” and “Never Forget You.” She has contributed to the development of countries in multiple ways, including her partnerships with Operation Smile and (RED), as well as her support for UNICEF.

Operation Smile is an organization that provides free cleft lip surgeries and comprehensive care to children whose families can not afford it. These surgeries are important as cleft lips cause feeding and speech complications, extremely short life expectancy and other serious issues. In 2018, Larsson spent her 21st birthday fundraising for the organization and volunteering with it in Ghana.

In 2018, the company Durex collaborated with (RED) (an organization that fights against global health injustices) to fundraise for the Keeping Girls in School program in South Africa. The program “aims to reduce new HIV infections and pregnancies among young women through encouraging girls to stay in education and improving access to sexual health and reproductive services.”

Larsson, alongside other celebrities and influencers, participated in a short film to encourage people to support this fundraiser. Additionally, she has participated in an exclusive livestream concert in collaboration with the brand IKEA, where she encouraged fans to donate to UNICEF.

Kehlani Ashley Parrish

Parrish is an American singer, songwriter and dancer known for multiple trending songs, including her hits “Nights Like This” and “Folded.” She has also supported developing countries through her song “Next 2 U,” using merchandise sales tied to the release to raise $555,000. The proceeds were donated to Operation Olive Branch, a platform that provides support to people in Gaza, as well as to communities in Sudan and the Congo.

Rachel Agatha Keen (RAYE)

RAYE is a London-based singer-songwriter best known for hits like “Escapism,” “Where Is My Husband?,” and “Prada.” RAYE is one of many female artists who are supporting developing countries by working with Global Citizen, an advocacy platform that aims to end extreme poverty globally. At Global Citizen’s annual festival, fans earn access to tickets by taking actions, such as signing petitions or completing tasks on the Global Citizen website, rather than paying for them. RAYE has supported Global Citizen by performing at its 2024 festival.

Alice Suki Waterhouse

Suki Waterhouse is an English actress, model and singer and the wife of “Twilight” actor Robert Pattinson. The “Good Looking” singer has supported developing countries through her involvement with Facing the World.

Facing the World is an organization that is dedicated to helping children with facial disfigurements in Vietnam. Additionally, she has attended the 2014 UNICEF U.K. Halloween Ball to help fundraise for children in Syria.

Final Remarks

Larsson, Kehlani, RAYE and Waterhouse are four or many female artists supporting developing countries. Indeed, they use their platforms to help those in need. 

– Renata N Hirmiz

Renata is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr