Archive for category: Aid

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Local Solutions Drive Madagascar’s Poverty Solutions

Madagascar's poverty solutionsMadagascar, the world’s fifth-largest island, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and natural resources. Yet, the country faces persistent poverty, with 75% of its population living below the national poverty line as of 2022. Rural areas are particularly affected, with poverty rates reaching 79.9%. Political instability, limited infrastructure and changing weather patterns destabilize the region and exacerbate the situation.

Battling Hunger and Malnutrition

Since 2019, the southern regions of Madagascar have been grappling with severe droughts, leading to famine-like conditions. Approximately 1.3 million people are food insecure, with malnutrition rates among children under 5 doubling in recent years. In response, the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have collaborated to deliver life-saving nutrition supplies, such as Plumpy’Sup, to malnourished children in remote areas. Innovative methods, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems, have been employed to reach isolated communities.  

Madagascar’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes it vulnerable to the harsh climate. Prolonged droughts have devastated crops, leading to food shortages and economic hardship. To combat this, Madagascar’s poverty solutions include programs promoting climate-smart agriculture. These initiatives teach farmers sustainable practices, such as using drought-resistant crops and mulching, to improve food security and protect the environment. 

International Support and Development Projects

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) committed $22.1 million to support Madagascar’s southern regions through projects like Vikina and Harea. These initiatives aim to build resilience, improve food security and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, USAID’s Mikajy project focuses on linking biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods. By supporting community-based enterprises and introducing conservation farming, the project helps communities achieve economic growth while preserving natural resources.

In 2023, the World Bank approved a $250 million credit to expand access to social protection for extremely poor households across all 23 regions of Madagascar. The initiative aims to strengthen the national safety net system and improve household resilience to economic and climate-related shocks. In the same year, the World Bank committed an additional $400 million to the Digital and Energy Connectivity for Inclusion in Madagascar Project (DECIM). This program aims to double the country’s energy access from 33.7% to 67% and expand internet connectivity by reaching 3.4 million new users. The investment supports long-term development by promoting digital inclusion, clean energy and infrastructure growth.

Community-Driven Initiatives

Local communities are also taking action in Madagascar’s poverty solutions by preserving their lush forests. Reforestation projects, such as those by Eden Reforestation Projects, aim to restore mangroves and upland forests while providing both environmental benefits and employment opportunities.  In the Makay region, eco-tourism initiatives promote low-impact tourism, generating income for local communities while funding conservation efforts. Microfinance programs, like those supported by Money for Madagascar, empower individuals to start small businesses, fostering economic independence and community development. 

Looking Ahead

By focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience and economic empowerment, Madagascar continues to build a path toward resilience and improved well-being for its people.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Catalonia’s UBI Program: A Bold Strategy for Poverty Reduction

Catalonia’s UBI ProgramIn 2024, Catalonia launched one of Europe’s most ambitious Universal Basic Income (UBI) initiatives. The year 2025 marks the first full year of its UBI pilot program, with 5,000 residents receiving unconditional monthly payments of $906 for adults and $400 for children. Catalonia’s UBI program reflects a growing interest in new economic security solutions across Europe. It aims to reduce poverty while improving mental health and employment flexibility.

The Government of Catalonia tasked the Office of the Pilot Plan for UBI with managing the two-year experiment. The team selected the 5,000 participants from two groups: 2,500 randomly chosen across Catalonia and 2,500 residents of two lower-income villages. The pilot aims to assess the effects of unconditional cash distributions on various social and economic outcomes, which do not replace any existing benefits. This approach allows for a comparative analysis to determine the true efficacy of unconditional income in improving social and economic conditions.

Results Are Yet To Be Seen

The Catalan government has not released any official outcome data. A comprehensive evaluation of Catalonia’s UBI program will occur in 2026 when researchers assess income changes, employment, health and well-being across recipients and a designated control group. Sociologist Sergi Raventós, who initially implemented the program, emphasized, “This is the first time something like this has been done anywhere in the world.”

In an interview with InfoLibre, Raventós spoke about his belief that UBI should serve as a central redistributive tool for the 21st-century welfare state. He has also previously stated that recipients of UBI often report lower stress and greater freedom to make meaningful life decisions. Results from other UBI programs back up this assertion. However, given the novelty of Catalonia’s pilot program, such results remain impossible to predict before the release of official data.

Learning From Global Examples

Catalonia’s UBI program builds on lessons from earlier UBI trials around the world. From 2017 to 2018, Finland tested a UBI pilot that gave 2,000 unemployed people $635 monthly. Although the funds didn’t significantly impact employment rates, participants experienced reduced anxiety, higher life satisfaction and increased confidence. Many used the income to invest in personal projects, such as starting businesses, volunteering or focusing on education.

Similarly, in the United States, the SEED program in Stockton, California, gave 125 people $500 per month for two years. Recipients found full-time jobs at double the rate of non-recipients and reported improved emotional health. These findings suggest that UBI can enhance well-being, even without major effects on employment outcomes.

However, Catalonia’s pilot program is unique in its effort’s scale and duration. The program includes a larger sample size, higher monthly payments and a design that reaches urban and rural communities. The Catalan team is also collaborating with academics to ensure rigorous evaluation to help determine whether UBI improves recipients’ quality of life across various metrics.

Implications for Global Poverty Strategy

The results of Catalonia’s UBI program may likely influence poverty policy across the globe. Governments in South Korea, Kenya and Brazil have also explored unconditional payments, though few programs match Catalonia’s scope.

The Catalan program’s results will provide more substantive data on whether direct cash support helps people escape cycles of low-income instability. As cost-of-living crises grow worldwide, Catalonia’s experiment could change how countries think about poverty, security and the role of government in economic planning and dignity.

– Kelsey Eisen

Kelsey is based in San Francisco, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Nepal’s Poverty Reduction Through Local Solutions

Nepal's poverty reductionNepal, a landlocked Himalayan nation, has made significant strides in poverty reduction over recent decades; however, significant challenges persist, particularly in rural and underdeveloped regions. According to the Fourth Nepal Living Standards Survey (NLSS) 2022–23, the national poverty rate stands at 20.27%. Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with a poverty rate of 24.66%, compared to 18.34% in urban regions. Contributing factors include limited access to essential services such as education, health care and clean drinking water. Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, with more than 19% of young people unemployed, a figure significantly higher than the national average. This has led to increased migration, both internally to urban centers and externally abroad, as youths seek better employment opportunities.

Government Initiatives

The Nepalese government has implemented several programs aimed at poverty alleviation. The 15th Periodic Plan (2019–2024), developed by the National Planning Commission, focuses on achieving sustainable development goals and transitioning Nepal to a middle-income country. Key objectives include economic diversification, infrastructure development and social inclusion. Another significant initiative is the Prime Minister Employment Program (PMEP), which seeks to provide short-term employment opportunities to unemployed individuals, particularly in rural areas. The program aims to enhance skills and increase income levels among marginalized populations.

International Aid and Partnerships

International organizations have played a crucial role in supporting Nepal’s poverty reduction efforts. USAID has been instrumental in sectors such as education, agriculture and health through financial aid. However, recent budget cuts have led to the suspension of several projects, raising concerns about the continuity of essential services.

The World Bank’s Rural Access Improvement and Decentralization Project has improved rural infrastructure, facilitating better access to markets and services. Similarly, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported climate resilience and local governance initiatives, including the implementation of Local Adaptation Plans of Action (LAPAs) that empower communities to address climate change impacts.

Community-Based Efforts

Grassroots organizations have been vital in addressing poverty at the local level. READ Nepal, part of the READ Global network, organizes Community Library and Resource Centers that offer educational resources, vocational training and women’s empowerment programs. These centers have reached millions in rural communities, fostering literacy and economic development while reducing income inequality. The Federation of Community Forestry Users, Nepal (FECOFUN) empowers local communities to manage forest resources sustainably. By providing employment opportunities and generating income from selling forest products, FECOFUN promotes environmental stewardship and economic development.

The Role of Remittances

Remittances from Nepalese working abroad account for a significant portion of the country’s GDP. In 2023, remittances totaled more than $11 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the GDP. These funds have been instrumental in reducing poverty, improving household incomes and contributing to economic stability.

Moving Forward

Nepal’s comprehensive approach to poverty reduction—combining government policies, international aid and community initiatives—demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in addressing economic challenges. Continued support and investment in these areas are essential for sustaining progress and achieving long-term development goals.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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6 Organizations Helping Refugees from Venezuela in Colombia

venezuela refugees Over the years, Venezuela has been struggling with an unstable economy and poverty across a vast number of its population. In fact, according to the Human Rights Watch (HRW), less than 8.8 million people out of the total population of nearly 29 million are not suffering from multidimensional poverty. That is only about 30% of the entire country’s population. This leads many Venezuelans to leave their country in search of better opportunities that are not present in their country. Most of these people often flee to other Latin American countries, with the most popular place being Colombia, with almost 3 million refugees from Venezuela as of 2023.

However, despite moving to Colombia, they still need support to help them above the poverty line. Fortunately, numerous organizations are assisting the Venezuelans in Colombia to overcome this crisis. Here are a few of them and what they do:

International Rescue Committee

Founded in 1933 by Albert Einstein to help Germans flee the Nazi regime, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a humanitarian non-governmental organization that support refugees from and residing all over the world. Later on, it expanded to the rest of Europe and in modern times, it assists refugees from all over the world, including the refugees from Venezuela in Colombia. Its main work in Colombia includes providing access to health care to the Venezuelans and ensuring the safety of their minors. The number of people it helped as of 2020 is 87,000.

HIAS

Originally established in 1903 as the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, HIAS is another organization that focuses on global refugee aid. According to its website, HIAS has helped more than 150,000 refugees from Venezuela in their Colombia branch, mainly with economic inclusion programs and giving the refugees legal support for living in the new country.

ZOA International

ZOA International is a non-governmental organization that focuses on improving the living standards of impoverished people in multiple countries, including Colombia. While it does not specifically focus on refugees, the organization has the refugees from Venezuela as a major demographic that it supports in its efforts to help the Colombians in need, as many of them are in the country’s slums.

Its main method of support in the country focuses on providing food, water and implementing hygiene improvements to the people they help. For refugees specifically, it also gives emergency aid to provide them with better access to food and water.

Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a non-governmental organization that provides humanitarian aid to countries that are facing some form of insecurity, including economic instability. In Colombia, it helps the country’s most impoverished, including the refugees from Venezuela. In Colombia, its main work for the refugees from Venezuela are mainly emergency support such as money reserves, medical aid and providing internet in their shelters.

Project Hope

Project Hope is an organization that focuses on providing health relief to countries in need. Originally founded in 1958, it has provided health services all over the world by working with other organizations and often help to introduce systemic changes to the country’s health system.

In Colombia, the organization gives to the refugees from Venezuela by helping to train doctors, giving the refugees access to maternal health services and providing them with better access to essential items like pharmaceuticals or other medical supplies.

Education Cannot Wait

Founded in 2016, Education Cannot Wait is an organization working with the United Nations that focuses on giving refugee children better education opportunities, often leading to them breaking the poverty cycles in their families. Its main work in Colombia includes giving the children of the refugees from Venezuela safer environments, especially for female students. According to its website, the organization has helped more than 130,000 children in Colombia.

These are only a few of the organizations that are helping these refugees survive and overcome poverty in their new home of Colombia. While it is unclear if and when the economic crisis in Venezuela will end, the efforts of organizations like these and the people who support them can significantly help fight poverty for the refugees from Venezuela.

– Jose Gabriel Lopez

Jose is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Turkey’s Approach to Poverty in East Africa

Turkey's Approach to Poverty in East Africa For decades, East Africa has struggled with harsh famines, conflicts and involuntary displacements. Traditionally, nations like the United States (U.S.), the United Kingdom (U.K.) and China have intervened to support stability and poverty alleviation in the region. However, Turkey has emerged as a significant, albeit less publicized, contributor to humanitarian and development efforts in East Africa. In 2023 alone, Turkey invested more than $85.5 billion in infrastructure projects across Africa, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan making 30 official visits to the continent, symbolising Turkey’s deep ties to the continent and its commitment to poverty reduction.

Historical Ties to East Africa

Turkey’s engagement with East Africa dates back to the Ottoman Empire, particularly in the Horn of Africa and around the Red Sea. These historical connections, coupled with shared Islamic traditions, have fostered strong cultural bonds. Reflecting this relationship, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) provided food aid to approximately 500 families in Ethiopia’s Lege T’afo refugee camp during Ramadan in 2025. In addition, Turkey has adopted an aid model dissimilar to other traditional foreign powers operating in East Africa, such as China and European countries. Ankara’s aid focuses on a noninterventionist approach, which provides humanitarian support and poverty relief without interfering in the political system or democracy of the recipient country.

Past Efforts

In 2005, Turkey announced the “Year of Africa,” marking a significant shift in its foreign policy toward several African countries. This support for East Africa became apparent in 2011 when Somalia suffered a widespread famine, resulting in the death of 260,000 people. Shortly after, Ankara committed more than $1 billion to humanitarian and development assistance. What’s more, between 1992 and 2018, Turkey awarded a total of 1,092 scholarships to Somali students, demonstrating a commitment to providing opportunities for talent from developing nations in East Africa. 

Present Efforts

TIKA, active in 170 countries, has expanded its variety of operations in East Africa, investing in health care such as the De Martino hospital in Somalia, which has received lifesaving neonatal incubators, stretchers and defibrillators. Other organizations of Turkish origin, such as the Türkiye Diyanet Foundation, have made important contributions to poverty reduction in East Africa, such as the construction of a high-tech solar-powered well in Ethiopia, which has a 5000-litre tank and has helped reduce the effects of drought and food insecurity in the village of Fadis.

Turkish Airlines

Apart from the government’s direct support for alleviating poverty through TIKA, other Turkish organisations and institutions, attached to Ankara, contribute to poverty alleviation in East Africa. Turkish Airlines, for example, plays a vital role in connecting some of Africa’s most isolated nations with Europe. According to the United Nations’ (U.N.) list of the 46 least developed countries, Turkish Airlines flies to 25 of them, providing more opportunities for global investment in these countries, consequently tackling the issue of poverty. The airline has committed to the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, prioritizing poverty alleviation and zero hunger.

Looking Ahead

Turkey’s approach to poverty reduction in East Africa is characterized by a blend of humanitarian aid, infrastructure development and cultural engagement. Through organizations like TİKA and TDV, Turkey addresses immediate needs while investing in long-term solutions such as education and economic development. This comprehensive strategy underscores Turkey’s role as a key partner in East Africa’s pursuit of sustainable growth and stability.

– Alfie Williams-Hughes

Alfie is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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From 60% to 30%: Inside Rwanda’s Poverty Reduction Miracle

From 60% to 30%: Inside Rwanda’s Poverty Reduction Miracle Rwanda, a country in central Africa, has transformed its image from one linked to genocide to a model of development. Over the past generation, it has reduced its extreme poverty rate from 60.3% in 2000 to under 40% in 2017, earning recognition for its poverty alleviation, often called the “Rwandan Miracle.”

A Country Rising from the Ruins

In 1994, Rwanda experienced one of the fastest and most horrific genocides in history, resulting in around 800,000 to 1 million Tutsis and moderate Hutus murdered in just 100 days. When the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) finally ended the genocide and established a government in July 1994, this marked the beginning of Rwanda’s poverty reduction miracle. 

By the year 2000, six years after the genocide, Rwanda continued to be one of the world’s poorest nations. Life expectancy was about 48/49 years, child mortality rates ranked among the highest internationally and 60% of the population survived on less than the international poverty line of $1.90 per day. The country faced significant challenges, such as limited natural resources, high population density, landlocked geography and profound trauma.

Vision 2020: Planning for Transformation

Under President Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s leadership embarked on an ambitious development agenda. In 2000, the government launched Vision 2020, aiming to transform Rwanda into a middle-income country by 2020 to reduce poverty from 60% to 30%. It focused on poverty reduction and established specific programs as the backbone of Rwanda’s poverty reduction miracle transformation:

The Ubudehe System: Target Poverty Identification

Rwanda’s poverty reduction miracle strategy relies on the innovative Ubudehe system. This community-based approach involves identifying and categorising households according to their socioeconomic status. By utilising traditional Rwandan practices of collective action, the system sorts each household into one of four economic categories. This classification enables tailored interventions that effectively address the needs of different families. 

Vision 2020 Umurenge Programme (VUP)

Initiated in 2008, the VUP has served as Rwanda’s key initiative for reducing poverty, functioning through three key components: 

  • Public Works: Offering paid work on community infrastructure projects for capable adults from underprivileged backgrounds in households.
  • Direct support: Cash transfers provided unconditionally to the most vulnerable households lacking labour capacity.
  • Financial Services: Providing access to credit and financial support to empower underprivileged families and helping them gain the knowledge and resources they need to improve their financial situations and achieve greater economic stability.

According to the World Bank, VUP beneficiaries in these programs increased from 19% in March 2020 to 41.5% by December 2021. This project addresses childhood malnutrition in Rwanda through safety nets that enhance nutrition and early childhood development. The Nutrition Sensitive Direct Support (NSDS) has helped more than 200,000 households, exceeding the target of 59,000 and covering 96% of eligible families in 18 districts. 

Girinka: One Cow per Poor Family

Rwanda’s notable poverty initiative, Girinka, supplies dairy cows to impoverished families. From 2006 to the end of June 2022, it has provided 427,576 cows to 427,576 families, an 84.7% accomplishment that accounts for the programme’s goal. Research indicates that Girinka participants experienced increased household income and enhancements in child nutrition.

Universal Health Coverage as Poverty Prevention

Rwanda acknowledges that health shocks cause poverty. To address this, the country created a Community-Based Health Insurance scheme (Mutuelles de Santé), enabling citizens to pool funds and receive donations for health care costs. Each member contributes 1,000 Rwanda Francs ($2).  

The program fully subsidised premiums and copayments for 1.5 million of the poorest residents in 2011 to improve affordability. Consequently, more than 90% of Rwandans had health insurance by 2020, compared to an average of 31% in other low-income countries. This coverage significantly increased life expectancy in Rwanda from 49.7 years in 2001 to 69.6 years in 2022, enabling the government to tackle critical health challenges. Rwanda is the only low-income country in Sub-Saharan Africa to meet the United Nations (U.N.) Millennium Development Goals on maternal mortality and infectious diseases.

Agricultural Transformation and Rural Development

Agriculture is vital for Rwanda’s poverty reduction miracle, lifting 1 million citizens from extreme poverty in the past decade through improved practices backed by the International Development Association (IDA). The sector contributes 33% to GDP, employs 79.5% of the workforce and accounts for more than 45% of exports. Food security improved in 200 with food production and a 30% income increase for some farmers. Between 2006 and 2011, extreme poverty fell by 14 percentage points, due to rising productivity and a shift to commercial farming.

The Results: From 60% to Below 30% Vision

The interventions implemented in Rwanda’s poverty reduction miracle have significantly transformed Rwanda’s socio-economic landscape. Notably, extreme poverty has dramatically declined from more than 60% in 2000 to 39.1% in recent years. Life expectancy has improved considerably, increasing from 46 years in 2000 to 65 years in 2023. Moreover, child mortality rates have fallen by 70%. Unconditional cash transfer aids 112,000 households across 416 sectors, 73% of which are women-led. Nutrition support is provided for 131,000 children under 2 and 40,000 pregnant women.

– Vanuza Antonio

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

Photo: Flickr

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E3 Nations and humanitarian aid to Gaza

humanitarian aid gazaThe Gaza Strip has witnessed untold destruction and has suffered tens of thousands of deaths. Humanitarian aid is desperately necessary in this region. The E3 nations (United Kingdom (U.K.), France and Germany) pledged much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza on March 5, 2025, hoping to mobilize a peace accord in the region but also to ensure the aid provided gets to where it is needed. The U.K. Government stated that sustaining a ceasefire is vital alongside the continued humanitarian flow. The E3 nations involved have disapproved of Israel’s cut-off of any humanitarian aid to Gaza on March 2, 2025, violating multiple human rights codes. All E3 nations further stated that “bloodshed is in no one’s interest” in achieving access to humanitarian aid, wanting more peaceful means.

Humanitarian Aid from the UK

The U.K. has made large strides in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza. Working alongside UNICEF, the World Food Program (WFP) and the Egyptian Red Crescent Society (ERCS), the U.K. has helped combat shortages of food, water and medical supplies. Official Development Assistance (ODA) of £27 million went to the Palestinian Territories to further allow access to resources. An additional £4.25 million went to vulnerable children and young women through a partnership with UNFPA, which estimates it could reach one-fifth of Gazan women and children.

At home, the U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) and Ministry of Defence (MOD) have helped supply humanitarian aid to Gaza. More than £100 million went for ensuring humanitarian aid reaches the proper channels in Gaza to relieve it.

Humanitarian Aid from Germany

Since October 2023, “German assistance for the Palestinian territories has been increased by more than €300 million” to help alleviate the wartime crisis. Germany has fortunately seen its efforts come to fruition through its generous aid programs. Through its joint partnerships with UNICEF and the WFP, Germany has helped provide Gazans with much-needed supplies of nutrients and food formulas to combat malnutrition.

In addition to its physical efforts, Germany, as an E3 nation, has made clear statements on the need to help Gaza in its time of need, as well as to help end the humanitarian horrors by bringing peace to the region. “No humanitarian aid has reached Gaza for a month,” said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. “This cannot and must not continue,” he added.

Humanitarian Aid from France

French President Emmanuel Macron said, “Aid must never be used as a tool of war,” on April 9, 2025. France, alongside the E3 nations, has put forward a strong position on supplying humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza. On February 14, 2025, France sent 52 tons of humanitarian aid to Gaza, hoping to help more than 1,000 families with blankets, ground sheets, medicine, food and water. Additionally, France has worked alongside its local NGOs to ensure that the people in need directly receive the aid. Working with Premiere Urgence Internationale and Médecins du Monde have helped give the supplies from the French government to Gaza through the Jordanian humanitarian corridor.

Financially, France has made considerable contributions to the cause. Attending the first international conference of Gaza’s civilian population, France contributed €100 million out of €1 billion raised for the conference.

Outcomes

The E3 nations and the humanitarian aid provided have been significant since October 7, 2023. All three nations have contributed with both financial and physical aid, food and medicine. The E3 nations have contributed more than most to the humane cause of helping people in war torn societies.

– Joel Raymer

Joel  is based in Derby, Derbyshire, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Rebuilding of Eastern Ghouta

eastern ghoutaEastern Ghouta, a region in Syria previously bombarded with attacks from Syrian Government forces, has finally become accessible for humanitarian aid and support groups following the collapse of the Assad Regime in December 2024. While there is still quite a way to go, several key organizations have proven hugely significant for the reconstruction initiatives within the area that focus not only on aid for civilians but also the surrounding infrastructure and agriculture.

Syrian Civil War

The Syrian Revolution in March 2011 involved large-scale protests across the country, fuelled by popular discontent for the Assad regime. Bashar al-Assad took power in 2000 after his father, Hafez al-Assad, died, and promised to bring a new era of rule to Syria, modernizing the economy and “launching [their] own democratic experience.” However, modernization came at the cost of the well-being of the population. While he promised to move away from the “Arab socialism” that had previously defined the Ba’athist regime, favoring a market-controlled rather than state-controlled economy, it remained that it only benefited the well-connected few.

Separation and privatization to dismantle ubiquitous state rule was done through the deregulation of economic activity rather than the outright sale of public sector enterprises, causing greater instability in pricing and market values that motivated many new private investments into the economy. It was this private sector stimulation that ultimately resulted in the “mushrooming” of private sectors in Syria, such as healthcare, education and banking. State-regulated price ceilings and subsidies gradually phased out, and social stratification became increasingly prevalent as public sector employment shrunk while the cost of living rose exponentially.

Following a drought from 2006 to 2010, socioeconomic inequality hit a record high. The rural population, unable to make a living from unusable farmland, migrated to cities and caused the unemployment rate to soar further.Popular discontent was at its peak, and with the wider Arabian population partaking in the uprising Arab Spring movement, Syria too was inspired and formally began their protests in March 2011.

The Conflict

The Syrian civil war, up until the collapse of the regime, was a complicated conflict with many different sides and proxies operating on different axes that did not only focus on government supporters and opposition. However, the conflict can ultimately be broken down into three sects: the Syrian rebels (and their backers Turkey, Gulf Arab states, the US and Jordan), the Syrian Government (and their backers Russia, Iran, Hezbollah and Shia Muslim militias) and ISIS/ISIL. The rebels and Syrian Government forces fought each other, however, both sides also fought ISIS, who used the conflict to justify the expansion of their territory to create a singular caliphate state across the wider Islamic region.

Eastern Ghouta Region

At the turn of the revolution, Syrian rebel forces quickly set up strongholds in major regions across Syria, with Eastern Ghouta becoming one in November 2012. Because of its proximity to the capital city Damascus, Eastern Ghouta was a hugely geographically significant and advantageous position for the rebels and remained one of the last rebel strongholds until 2018, when Syrian Government forces reclaimed the area.

Eastern Ghouta was bombarded with numerous forms of attack throughout its time as a rebel-occupied area. In the early hours of August 21, 2013, it witnessed a chemical weapons attack, specifically a nerve agent called Sarin, that, along with Western Ghouta, resulting in 1,017 deaths, 989 of which were civilians, out of which 308 were women and 122 children.

In the final weeks before the government recaptured the region, the offensive claimed the lives of 1,473 civilians, including 301 children and 185 women. This “all-out campaign,” with the support of Russia, was the final attack that caused the stronghold to collapse, with evacuations taking place throughout March 2018 until April 12, when the Syrian Government declared the control of the area.

MSF Providing Support

Following the collapse of the Assad regime, humanitarian groups have been working relentlessly to restore the region, providing numerous grants to support the rebuilding of the necessary infrastructure. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is one of the humanitarian groups that has been working particularly closely with the region since the beginning of the conflict, where initially only remote support could be provided due to being denied onsite access to the region by government forces. Following a visit in February 2025, the region “shows little signs of normalcy [and] Eastern Ghouta’s suffering is far from over” and needs urgent support now. However, the organization is making significant progress, operating mobile clinics to tend to basic healthcare needs, consultations, and mental health support and, as of February 2025, has tended to 576 patients, including 77 children under 5 years old.

MSF calls the time “a new chapter of hope” as several of its teams operate both in the Eastern Ghouta region and further afield across Syria to ensure the people gain the healthcare needed. During the Syrian Civil War, MSF originally remotely supported 20 clinics operating in the region. However, as the conflict progressed, this reduced to none either due to abandonment or former government forces taking over the area. Now that the mobile clinics have returned to operation, there seems to be a rekindled sense of life and relief to the people of Eastern Ghouta; “despite what they have seen, people are still able to smile,” said Bilal Alsarakibi, MSF’s medical adviser.

Danish Refugee Council

On the infrastructure side of the reconstruction efforts, the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) grants have proved hugely significant. The conflict caused severe physical damage, such as once fertile fields left dry and barren and water wells broken and contaminated. However, the DRC tells the story of a Syrian man named Samer who took to reviving the greenery of the region and bringing it back to its former beauty: “I want the next generation to grow surrounded by greenery, not the crisis’ leftovers.”

As part of the larger Syrian Resilience Consortium (SRC), the DRC provided grants to build water collection pools and install solar panels, allowing for both agricultural and electricity sustainable practices to take shape in the area. Furthermore, multiple donors within the DRC have supported the Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) program to provide financial support to families in need in the area.

Closing Remarks

While the Assad Regime may have fallen, hardship is still far from over in Syria. Such is the religious and territorial diversity in the country, appointing new leadership for the long term could inevitably cause some tension. However, with the support of humanitarian groups and foreign aid grants gradually uplifting the spirit of the people can be a success story. This is undoubtedly one of the most important objectives in Syria to ensure a community that can come together to grow from their long history of conflict and welcome a new era not only politically, but also socially and economically.

– Helena Pryce

Helena is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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VSLAs: CARE Continues to Tackle Global Poverty

VSLAsFounded in 1945 after WWII, the Cooperative for American Remittances to Europe (CARE) foundation is one of the oldest organizations focusing on humanitarian relief and global aid. Dr. Lincoln Clark approached 22 American charities to create CARE and deliver immediate relief to those in need in the form of a CARE package. Over the past 80 years, the main priorities have spread to crisis relief, food and water, health, education and work, and empowering young women and girls in over 120 countries. Indeed, CARE’s main goal is to provide “humanitarian assistance to 10% of those affected in major crises, reaching at least 50 million people by 2030.”

Gender Barriers and Financial Inclusion

Using the Women’s Economic Justice (WEJ) programs, CARE creates transformative solutions to address systemic gender barriers. Women in these countries face exclusion from financial services, unequal pay and burdensome unpaid care work. However, CARE recognizes the impact that women could have on the economy, predicting that an additional $10 trillion could go to global GDP once gender gaps are over.

The WEJ program strategies include the Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), which operate at the community level to bring primarily women together and form savings groups. This entails engaging in financial literacy training, pooling resources and accessing low-risk loans. CARE’s initiative focuses on long-term change by incorporating market access programs, private sector partnerships and policy advocacy with local market actors.

VSLAs are a 12-year initiative formed in 2018 to help 65 million people overall. This works to ensure positive impacts on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals regarding decent work and economic growth, gender equality and sustainable communities.

CARE Fighting Violence

One of the programs built into VSLAs is incorporating men and young boys into the conversation of gender and household responsibilities. One in three women will experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. CARE supports women’s empowerment by educating and leading boys to be advocates instead of pushing harmful social norms.

CARE has impacted 121 countries, with more than 1,400 projects and initiatives reaching 53 million people. The results of humanitarian crises affect millions more, including Manju. As she gave birth to her third child, Manju had to deliver dangerously on the side of the road. Bihar, India is one of the country’s poorest and largest states, and 90% rural. Due to long distances between health centers and poor winter road conditions, it took her almost four hours to get to the hospital.

From this emerged the Bihar Technical Support Program, a joint effort by CARE, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Government of Bihar. They were able to confront staggering rates of maternal, newborn and child mortality and malnutrition rates. As a result, Bihar has seen 20,000 fewer newborn deaths from 2011-2016, and the maternal mortality ratio has nearly halved between 2005 and 2018.

CARE has achieved a lot around the world since the 1940s, and it provides many ways to get involved, whether through donations, organizing locally or joining one of the CARE networks or committees.

– Rachael Wexler

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

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Poverty in Nigeria: The Obijackson Foundation

obijackson foundation Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi established the Obijackson Foundation in 2010 “to improve the socio-economic wellbeing of the poor in the community through access to education, health care and good nutrition.” These challenges prevent people from getting food, education and medical care, making it difficult to lead healthy and fulfilled lives. With high unemployment rates, poor infrastructure and limited services, many Nigerians are stuck in a cycle of poverty.

Key Areas

To help break this cycle of poverty in Nigeria, the Obijackson Foundation aims to bring the poor and marginalized back into the community by focusing on five main areas: education, health care, nutrition, enterprise and welfare. It strives to help Nigerian people build better futures for themselves not only by solving short-term problems but also by addressing the deeper causes of poverty, leading to more resilient communities over time.

The Foundation uses a holistic community-driven approach that looks at both the causes and the effects of poverty, understanding that real change must address both. Pamela Egbo, the Executive Director of the Foundation, stated, “We have a robust team of people who oversee our different areas of intervention and impact. In all our programs, we are very hands-on and involved on a personal level with our beneficiaries.” By filling important gaps in services and creating more opportunities, the Foundation helps build a more equitable society. The Foundation’s work has made a huge difference in many people’s lives by focusing on creating a long-lasting, positive path to end poverty in Nigeria for the next generation of Nigerians can live a better future.

Education

The Obijackson Foundation strongly believes that education is a basic human right and key to reducing poverty, and Egbo states that the Foundation is “very intentional in making sure that the citizens of Okija get the opportunity to access quality basic education.” Although global progress has been made in school enrollment, there remain barriers such as distance to schools, poor infrastructure, lack of materials and shortage of teachers.

The Foundation provides sponsorship for 40 children annually into the Gonzaga Jesuit Academy. Egbo stated: “This is one of our biggest accomplishments to date.” Egbo also adds that “many of these children cannot read or write fluently or speak English when they start, and it is amazing to see tremendous progress.” It also provided 200 scholarships so far and hopes to award 500 more by the end of 2025. It distributes textbooks and laptops and organizes seminars and workshops for teachers. The foundation also supports Yearly Computer-Based Testing (CBT) for training, quizzes and essay contests. with scholarships awarded to winners.

Health and Nutrition

The Foundation focuses on making affordable, quality health care available, especially for women and children. In partnership with the Obijackson Women and Children’s Hospital, it provides:

  • Maternal and pediatric care: The hospital’s maternal and neonatal intensive care units offer advanced care for preterm and growth-restricted newborns.
  • Health insurance: Over 100 people enrolled in free healthcare insurance.
  • Eye health: Over 200 free eye screenings and 18 eye surgeries (cataract and glaucoma).
  • Health and hygiene education: HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, and hepatitis B awareness, the “One Girl, One Pad” program to educate female students on menstrual health with sanitary pad donations to 1,300 girls.

The Obijackson Foundation’s nutrition programs include:

  • Pantry & Nutrition Program: Provides raw food items to widows, physically challenged and people with low-income, with distribution of dry food and provisions through 23 centers.
  • Soup Kitchens: Serves hot meals to over 6,000 people each month, including inmates in Anambra and Lagos during festive seasons.
  • Other Support Programs: Distributes food and personal items for beneficiaries such as the Oji River Special School for the blind, deaf and mute in Enugu, RECDOT, Jesus Abandoned Home, St. Joseph Home and Ebute Metta Leper’s Colony.

Job Creation

Despite challenges like rising feed costs, economic instability and unfavorable policies, the Foundation remains focuses on job creation and transforming agriculture and nutrition through programs such as Obijackson farm, which creates jobs for unemployed youth in Okija, with crop growing and livestock farming to meet the rising demand for animal products. It operates with 4,000 laying birds, producing about 30,000 crates of eggs annually and with 1,000 broilers quarterly. The piggery unit has grown to 385 pigs, with the ability to sell over 250 pigs yearly.

The Obijackson Foundation is more than just a charity, it is helping to create lasting change in society by tackling poverty in Nigeria. The Foundation’s work is crucial for future development in a country where poverty and inequality are still major problems. As it continues to grow and reach more communities, the Foundation stays true to its core mission and supports those in need and help build an equitable, healthier and more educated society for a better future.

– Rafe Photopoulos

Rafe is based in Gainesville, FL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr