Archive for category: Child Poverty

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Child Poverty in Gabon

Child Poverty in Gabon 
The Gabonese Republic, a nation in central Africa bordering the Republic of the Congo to the east and south, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, originated in 1960 following independence from France. Following the successful decolonization movement, a constitutional and political order with a dominant presidency and close ties to France was established. Unfortunately, child poverty in Gabon is an issue that requires significant attention but some are making a difference.

The Situation

President El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba of the Gabonese Democratic Party, the new republic’s second head of state, abolished all other political parties. Using revenue from substantial natural reserves from forestry, oil and other extraction-based industries, Gabon invested in social services, such as comprehensive education, while encouraging the rural population to seek better-paying jobs based in urban centers. 

Substantial aid from other nations such as France and multinational institutions, such as the United Nations, have provided additional benefits. Following political turmoil and economic stagnation through the 1980s, President Bongo reintroduced multiparty democracy and deregulated the private sector economy, encouraging business investment. 

Gabon has since developed a reputation for stability and relative security in comparison with its central African neighbors. Additionally, Gabon is distinguished from its regional peers by its population, which is about 90% urban, and possesses one of the highest per capita incomes in central Africa. This wealth and high economic growth following independence has also permitted the country of $2.3 million to invest in economic development and establish social services, such as comprehensive education and other social services. 

As a result, Gabon experiences comparatively lower rates of poverty, illiteracy and food insecurity than most of its central and sub-Saharan peers. However, domestic government aid has been criticized globally for being inefficient, with economic incentives and development programs often benefiting those already secure and receiving upper and middle incomes more than concentrated demographics in need of direct help, such as impoverished children. Here is information about child poverty in Gabon and the efforts to eliminate it.

Poverty Among Vulnerable Groups

Despite these advantages and policies, Gabon continues to suffer from high concentrations of poverty and insecurity amongst vulnerable parts of the population, such as the elderly, those in rural areas and children. Children, who account for a substantial proportion of Gabon’s population, also face disadvantages due to mixed social services and basic infrastructure and uneven educational and early job opportunities, especially in rural areas. While the total national poverty rate is 38.5%, more than 40% of children face deprivation in health and sanitation, with nearly 50% facing such shortfalls in rural areas. Similarly, though unemployment amongst the broad population is 20%, youth unemployment remains elevated at 38%.

Learning Poverty in Gabon

Issues more relevant to younger children are also prevalent, such as in education, which reflects the nuanced situation for children in Gabon. Primary and secondary education is mandatory from the ages 6 to 16, and Gabon has invested more resources than average for sub-Saharan Africa on a per-student basis.

Additionally, learning poverty, defined as an inability to comprehend grade-level text by the age of 10 years, is 49.9% below average for regional peers. Despite these longstanding advantages in basic educational services, with only 9% of children not enrolled in school, persistent challenges exist in attempts to improve both the quality of services and reduce the substantial quantity of children not getting an adequate array of curricular services. 

Proficiency remains an ongoing challenge, with substantial minorities evaluated by international observers as below proficient; 31% do not achieve the Minimum Proficiency Standard, a national test sponsored by the United Nations Institute for Statistics to measure academic skills among school children. 

Overcrowding and a shortage of experienced teachers are especially prevalent in rural areas and “poor” educational quality compounds them.

Food Security and Water Access

Food security and access to water, examples of the essential services Gabon has been able to provide to its residents, also face issues related to quality which may hamper further progress. The imposition of a national water price, though effective in guaranteeing affordability for most households, remains prohibitive for those in poverty, especially families in rural areas. 

Further, rural families often lack direct access to water and depend upon neighbors, who often demand premiums over the government price, negating the impact. This structural obstacle towards greater water access also challenges efforts to improve access to superior so-called hygienic facilities, with 47% of households without running water septic systems and latrines. As a result, 40% of children lack basic hygienic provisions, with those in rural areas getting fewer resources on average. 

Historical improvements and more recent stagnation have also defined progress in addressing food insecurity among children in Gabon. According to the Global Hunger Index, Gabon has experienced gradual declines in chronic undernourishment of children, with the proportion of stunted children declining to under 20%. However, undernourishment remains a growing issue, with the UNICEF statistics showing that 35% of children in Gabon are nutritionally deprived, a reflection of ongoing problems in concentrating aid and resources towards those already disadvantaged, especially families, in rural areas. 

In sum, the Gabonese Republic has, through the encouragement of international aid and continuous social investments, successfully outperformed most other central African peers in countering poverty, including child poverty in Gabon. These investments, such as in widespread education and in key industries, have proved constructive in reducing poverty and countering social ills. However, the most vulnerable demographics, such as the poorest and children, have not reaped the full benefits of these programs and investments, acting as an example of the benefits of incentivizing aid while highlighting the intractability of complex issues such as child poverty in developing nations.

– Cormac Sullivan
Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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Early Education and Its Role in Eradicating Poverty

Early EducationEarly education is often underestimated, despite being a fundamental cornerstone of learning and development. It offers children a crucial platform to nurture their skills and knowledge from an early age. These skills can prove invaluable throughout their lives, enabling them to access higher-paying job opportunities. Education holds the potential to positively impact lives from an early stage by equipping individuals with the essential tools for success.

A Foundation for a Brighter Future

The impact of education on a child is significant. Research indicates that certain skills can be better learned at the first critical period of brain development, from age 2 to 7. At this age, kids exhibit an accelerated rate of learning. It is crucial to stimulate their minds during this period to unlock each child’s maximal potential. It is evident that further and higher education depends on the right foundation for kids to succeed at higher levels.

Some of the benefits of education at a young age include: 

  • Healthy brain development.
  • Improved social skills.
  • Independence. 
  • Problem-solving skills. 
  • A smooth transition into higher levels of education. 

Equipped with the right tools early on, children are more likely to progress and reach higher intellectual capacities. The right environment and skillset provide a solid groundwork for success — both academically and, eventually, occupationally. In the long term, early education provides the future generation with the necessary skills to acquire both high-quality jobs and higher-paying jobs.

Finally, research shows that children who spend longer in early education have improved educational outcomes in the future. It also shows that high-quality studying particularly benefits children from low-income backgrounds. Investing in children’s education leads to cost savings, as the next generation develops stronger human capital, resulting in a larger pool of productive workers. This, in turn, contributes to overall economic growth.

An End To Generational Poverty

Experiencing poverty as a child means that you are much more likely to be poor in early adulthood. This is the unfortunate truth for many children growing up in developing countries; when families struggle financially, the children feel the effects of the financial burden. With limited financial resources, education is difficult to access. Without it, potential job prospects become hard to acquire, and the cycle of generational poverty continues. 

Without early education access, many kids in poverty fall behind their counterparts. This creates a disparity in children’s capabilities, making the job of the teacher difficult to attend to each child’s level and need. The unfair disadvantage some children face is what keeps the vicious cycle going.

To break the cycle of poverty, childhood education plays a crucial role, and improving accessibility is essential. This can be achieved through various school programs and increased investments in education. Quality early education provides children with a strong foundation for learning and better prepares them for higher education, which, in turn, opens doors to higher-paying job opportunities. This process fosters generational change, where individuals who were once affected by poverty gain financial stability, ensuring that the next generation has an improved chance of avoiding poverty and breaking the cycle.

What’s Next?

Access to quality education in the early years holds significant importance for several reasons. Education, knowledge and skills serve as powerful tools in the fight against poverty. Early introduction to education creates opportunities that might otherwise remain inaccessible. Research has consistently shown that high-quality educational programs have the most profound impact on children living in impoverished conditions. By investing in the intellectual growth of our youth, there is hope for a more equitable and promising future. 

– Lewis Butcher
Photo: Unsplash

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Facts About Child Poverty in Uzbekistan 

Child Poverty in UzbekistanUzbekistan has made remarkable strides in reducing poverty and improving child welfare. Despite these gains, child poverty in Uzbekistan remains a pressing issue, with many children living in disadvantaged conditions. 

Declining Child Mortality Rate 

Uzbekistan has significantly reduced the infant and under-5 mortality rates over the past four decades. According to World Bank data, the infant mortality rate fell drastically from 98 per 1,000 live births in 1980 to just 13 per 1,000 live births in 2021. Likewise, the under-5 mortality rate reached an all-time low of 14 per 1,000 live births in 2021. 

Child Poverty in Uzbekistan

Nonetheless, child poverty remains a pressing issue in Uzbekistan. UNICEF’s 2019 report, “Building a Better Future: A Child-sensitive Social Protection System for Uzbekistan,” stated that 30% of young children and 24% of children between five to 14 years old belong to the poorest quintile of Uzbekistan. While the general poverty in Uzbekistan is 21%, the child poverty rate stood higher at 24%. 

As of 2019, 57% of children in the country lived on less than 10,000 UZS per day, approximately 1.5 times the minimum wage. The minimum wage in Uzbekistan also serves as the income eligibility threshold for families to receive child benefits. The prevailing circumstances signified that many children lived in households struggling to provide adequate child care. 

UNICEF currently estimates that children in Uzbekistan are one and a half times more likely to be poor than adults.

Malnutrition

Many young children in Uzbekistan experience undernutrition. Another 2019 UNICEF report, “Building a National Social Protection System Fit For Uzbekistan’s Children and Youth,” reported that 9% of children are stunted, causing irreversible damage to the children’s cognitive development. The report also highlighted that stunted children were likely to earn 26% less as adults than their non-stunted peers, further exacerbating a cycle of poverty and inequality. 

However, from 2002 to 2017, the stunting rate in Uzbekistan dropped from 21% to 8.7%, thanks to Uzbekistan’s immense strides in reducing malnutrition and expanding social welfare.  

Children With Disabilities 

In 2019, 13% of children with disabilities between the ages of 7 and 15 were not enrolled in school. Nearly one-third of young people with disabilities could not attain any diploma, limiting their educational and employment opportunities.

Moreover, UNICEF also determined that 52% of children with severe disabilities lacked access to services from the Child Disability Benefits program, indicating the limited reach of social support for vulnerable children and their families in Uzbekistan.

Social Insecurity 

52% of Uzbekistan’s impoverished households are excluded from any support by the national social protection system, leaving many families with children without benefits and social services. Subsequently, only 17% of children living in households have access to child benefits, only 23% of children under two gain Child Allowance, and only 10% of children between 2 to 14 years old collect the Family Allowance.

Ongoing Efforts by UNICEF

Currently, UNICEF’s global interventions emphasize child-sensitive social protection programs and investing in early childhood and adolescent development. For example, UNICEF is helping Uzbekistan develop a cash benefits program to address household income poverty. The organization plans to further invest in childhood education, health care access, clean water and sanitation to provide impoverished children with the needed care, security and nutrition. The organization hopes to establish sustainable social investments and integrate child-poverty-reduction policies into government budgets. 

Addressing child poverty, improving social security systems and ensuring better access to education and health care for children with disabilities are crucial areas that require concerted efforts from the government, civil society and international organizations to improve the well-being of children in Uzbekistan. 

– Freya Ngo
Photo: Flickr

Youth Poverty in Indonesia

Youth Poverty in IndonesiaThe World Bank estimates that about 25% of the Indonesian population lives below the national poverty line, and young people are disproportionately affected. Poverty, specifically among youth, manifests in a variety of ways from their education to their health and future. These circumstances ultimately perpetuate the cycle of poverty for future generations and hamper the country’s progress and development.

Factors Contributing to Youth Poverty in Indonesia

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of youth poverty in Indonesia, including limited access to education, high unemployment and gender inequality.

Access to education remains a significant challenge for youth living in poverty. In particular, many marginalized areas in Indonesia lack adequate resources and infrastructure. With a lack of funding for schools and a shortage of qualified teachers, young people’s education greatly suffers. As a result, children are unable to acquire the knowledge, skills and qualifications necessary for better employment prospects and economic empowerment.

Indonesian youth face high rates of unemployment and underemployment. For youths aged 15-24, the youth unemployment rate dropped over 13% in less than 20 years, from 26.38% in 2005 to 13.02% in 2023. Even the youth that can complete their education struggle to find stable and decent work opportunities. Limited job availability, particularly in sectors that align with their skills and qualifications, exacerbates the problem. This lack of suitable employment perpetuates poverty among young individuals, hindering their ability to escape economic hardship. Additionally, youth who do find employment opportunities may be involved in vulnerable employment. These jobs typically lack job security, social protection and fair wages. Young people often resort to informal work due to the lack of formal employment opportunities, which increases their economic vulnerability and hinders their ability to break free from the cycle of poverty.

In Indonesian society, gender norms and stereotypes often restrict young women’s educational opportunities. Deep-rooted beliefs regarding traditional gender roles prioritize domestic responsibilities over formal education for girls. This leads to lower school enrollment rates and higher dropout rates among young women, limiting their success in the future.

Additionally, limited access to reproductive health services and early marriage practices further compound the challenges faced by young women. Early marriage often results in the discontinuation of education,

making it difficult for young women to break free from the cycle of poverty. They are more likely to face health complications related to early childbearing and have limited opportunities for personal and professional development.

Initiatives and Programs

Recognizing the urgency of youth poverty in Indonesia, the Indonesian government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society have implemented a range of initiatives and programs aimed at addressing the challenges. These initiatives offer hope and pathways for empowering youth and breaking the cycle of poverty.

The government has taken notable steps to combat youth poverty. For example, they created a program known as Keluarga Harapan (PKH), which provides financial assistance to poor families, prioritizing education and health care expenditures. Through PKH, families receive conditional cash transfers that incentivize children’s school enrollment and attendance while promoting their health and well-being. This program aims to reduce intergenerational poverty by investing in the education and health of young individuals.

Additionally, the Indonesian government has launched the Indonesian Smart Card program, which aims to enhance access to education and health care for vulnerable groups, including youth living in poverty. The program provides subsidized or free educational services, including school fees, learning materials and transportation assistance. It also offers subsidized health care services, ensuring that young individuals have access to essential medical care.

Non-governmental organizations and civil society organizations are pivotal in addressing youth poverty through targeted interventions and support programs. Organizations such as YCAB Foundation and Plan International Indonesia are actively involved in empowering marginalized youth through educational programs, vocational training and entrepreneurship initiatives. These organizations work closely with communities, local authorities and the private sector to create sustainable solutions and promote social inclusion.

Ultimately, the efforts of the government along with NGOs and civil society in Indonesia, fill gaps and provide critical support to young people in poverty. Their programs help equip young individuals with the necessary skills and resources, these initiatives contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty and opening doors for a brighter future.

– Elizabeth Watters
Photo: Flickr

 

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Child Poverty in Luxembourg: The Unexpected Crisis

Child Poverty in LuxembourgLuxembourg may be known as one of the wealthiest European countries, but it is still struggling with child poverty. This is an issue that the country is working to address. Here’s some information about child poverty in Luxembourg.

The Current Child Poverty Situation in Luxembourg

Luxembourg boasts of having the highest average wage in the European Union (EU), but the cost of living is also proportionally high, leading to a higher poverty rate. Even with a relatively high income, a child living in Luxembourg may still experience financial struggles due to the country’s high living standards. In this situation, a child could potentially live in relative poverty.

The risk of poverty for children in Luxembourg is currently around 24.2%. Luxembourg also has a child deprivation rate of 8%. Around one in four children in Luxembourg does not have access to new clothes, an internet connection or the opportunity to participate in leisure activities. Findings determined that Luxembourg children who are the age of 18 and under are three times more likely to experience poverty than people over the age of 65.

One reason for the high rate of child poverty in Luxembourg is the inequality the country experiences. Households with single parents suffer higher taxation rates than families with two parents. One-fourth of single parents also use more than 40% of their income just to pay their rent. Being a single parent is one of the highest poverty risks in Luxembourg.

Children in low-income households in Luxembourg face reduced chances of acquiring an education, suffer more often from health problems and frequently experience psychological and social issues, as well as developmental delays. These children encounter limitations in almost all areas of life.

Poverty in Luxembourg is also generational. Children born into impoverished families tend to remain in poverty throughout their lives. Children born to parents addicted to drugs or alcohol often experience medical problems and require more medical care than the average child. However, their parents are typically unable to afford the medical care that they require.

Solutions

In 2021, the European Union launched the European Child Guarantee. The EU required all of its member countries to submit their Child Guarantee National Action Plans, including Luxembourg. Luxembourg’s plan focused on fighting child poverty in Luxembourg by providing education, health care services and housing for children living in poverty. It offers financial assistance to help cover the costs of childcare and education for children aged 0-12. Additionally, there are national mental health services available specifically for children.

Looking Ahead

By offering financial assistance for childcare and education and establishing dedicated mental health services for children, Luxembourg is making positive strides toward improving its young population’s well-being and future prospects. However, there are still challenges to overcome. But with such proactive measures in place, there is hope for a brighter future for children living in poverty in the country.

– Marisa Del Vecchio
Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Food and Bed Poverty in the UK

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According to the Independent, as of March 2022, 14.4 million individuals resided in low-income households in the U.K. Although this figure has decreased to pre-pandemic levels of 13.4 million, the impact of high living costs and inflation persists, affecting a significant portion of the population. Among those most affected are children and ethnic minority families, who often lack the necessary resources to provide proper nutrition and ensure a good night’s sleep, crucial for school readiness. Recognizing that education serves as a proven pathway out of poverty, it becomes imperative to address issues of food and bed poverty in the U.K. to support children’s success in school and secure their future prosperity.

Food Poverty in the UK

Children experiencing food poverty do not have the same access to food options as their peers. Rising food prices in the U.K. have made it difficult for many households to afford essential, nutrient-rich foods. According to data from January 2023, 17.7% of households in the U.K. could not afford a day’s worth of food, as reported by the Commons Library.

Bed Poverty in the UK

Limited access to safe sleeping arrangements also puts children at a disadvantage. During a House of Commons debate on child bed poverty, Kim Leadbeater, a member of the U.K. Parliament for Batley and Spen, highlighted that at least 163 pupils in the Batley & Birstall Excellence in Schools Together group of 21 schools do not have their beds. The lack of a bed affects a child’s family life, personal growth and education.

The Importance of Addressing Food and Bed Poverty in the UK

Sleep and nutrition are essential in ensuring children’s well-being and future success. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, getting proper sleep at night helps students stay focused, improve concentration and enhance academic performance. The National Sleep Foundation emphasizes the connection between nutrition and sleep, stating that healthy eating habits promote better sleeping patterns. Unfortunately, nutritious food and a secure sleep environment are limited for children from low-income homes.

Food and sleep significantly impact a child’s education. Zarach, a charity in the U.K., focuses on addressing food and bed poverty to ensure that children come to school ready to learn.

What is Zarach?

Zarach is a charity dedicated to helping children experiencing poverty in the U.K. Initially established in Leeds, it has expanded its services to Dewsbury, Romford, Calderdale, Huddersfield and Stockport. Through partnerships with schools, Zarach aims to provide beds and essential resources to help children arrive at school prepared to learn. Education serves as a crucial stepping stone toward providing opportunities that can change a child’s future. Zarach supports children through its projects, enabling them to succeed.

How Zarach Works With Schools and Families to End Bed Poverty in the UK

Zarach collaborates with schools to identify instances of bed poverty and refer families to its programs. In addition to providing referrals, Zarach works with schools to raise awareness about families experiencing poverty through assemblies, fundraisers and bundle collections.

Children need support at home to improve their opportunities in the classroom. The essentials provided by Zarach give children the opportunity to grow in school. Zarach hopes to help families transition from focusing on survival to self-sustenance.

“Every Head a Bed”

This project focuses on providing bed bundles and food packages to families living in poverty. Children need stable access to healthy meals and a safe bed to sleep in every day. Without these essentials, children struggle to grow.

“We are here to bring lasting and positive change to those children growing up in the grips of poverty crisis through bed bundle deliveries, tailored support packages, raising awareness, advocating policy change and galvanizing people and resources across the U.K.”

Looking Ahead

In addressing the critical issues of food and bed poverty in the U.K., organizations like Zarach are making a tangible difference in the lives of children experiencing poverty. By providing essential resources, such as nutritious meals and safe beds, Zarach supports children’s well-being and educational success. Its efforts not only alleviate immediate hardships but also work toward breaking the cycle of poverty, fostering a brighter future for these young individuals and ensuring equal opportunities for all.

– Ellie Bruce
Photo: PxHere

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Child Poverty in Libya: Causes, Effects and Solutions

Child Poverty in LibyaAs of 2023, approximately one-third of the Libyan population is living below the poverty line, indicating a significant issue of child poverty within the country. Consequently, Libya has an assigned score of 6.97/10 on the Realization of Children’s Rights Index (RCRI). This rating categorizes the situation of children’s rights in Libya as “difficult.”

Causes

The issue of conflict has played a significant role in exacerbating child poverty in Libya. For instance, the Libyan Revolt of 2011 had a detrimental impact on health care standards, depriving parents and children of essential medical care. As a result, they experienced a reduced ability to work, and this pushed families further into poverty. The uprising also resulted in the loss or injury of many parents, further hindering their capacity to fulfill their work responsibilities effectively. The revolt caused the deaths of at least 1,142 civilians and injured over 1,000, leaving behind orphaned children and intensifying child poverty in Libya.

Another contributing factor to child poverty was the disruption of education during the war. Despite the availability of free schooling, more than 61,000 students were unable to complete their academic term in 2011. Moreover, the destruction of 15 school buildings by bombings exacerbated the educational deficit.

Effects

The most damaging effect of child poverty is on the health and well-being of affected children. According to a U.N. report, only 14% of children aged between 6 and 23 months receive the minimum diet as of 2019. The same report reveals that 321,200 children are in need of primary and secondary health services in Libya.

The widespread malnutrition of Libyan children is incredibly damaging to the child’s growth, well-being and development. According to United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the negative effects of malnutrition in the first 1000 days of a child’s life include reduced brain development, a weakened immune system and visual impairment.

Another impact of living in a post-conflict and impoverished society comes from the desire to obtain funds regardless of the method. In Libya, many children living in poverty collect and sell weapons and ammunition left over from wartime to earn money for their families. Other kids pick up weapons or shrapnel out of sheer curiosity, relishing in new, shiny, foreign objects. Naturally, this is very dangerous. Unfortunately, some children have injured themselves or unfortunately lost their lives as a result.

Solutions

Concrete measures exist to alleviate child poverty rates in Libya. Since 2018, the World Food Programme (WFP) has been actively addressing malnutrition in Libya. Through monthly provisions of food and support, the WFP assists around 90,000 vulnerable individuals. Additionally, it offers financial contributions to bolster the country’s social programs. Collaborating with the U.N. and the Government of Libya, the WFP strives to implement effective solutions to reduce child poverty rates in the post-conflict era.

There has been notable progress in reducing infant mortality rates, but further advancements require attention to youth development.

Education stands as the key to breaking the cycle of child poverty in Libya. Education not only alleviates poverty at an individual level but also at a societal level. According to the World Bank, education enhances employment opportunities, fostering economic growth and innovation.

By ensuring improved access to education, this long-term solution aims to break the cycle of child poverty in Libya. In enhancing job prospects for children facing poverty, education plays a crucial role in their empowerment.

The Multi-Year Resilience Programme

There is ongoing progress with respect to addressing the challenging goal of tackling child poverty in Libya. One notable organization working towards this is ‘Education Cannot Wait‘, founded in 2016 by international humanitarian aid and development actors. Its mission is to create a safe learning environment for children affected by crisis. Education Cannot Wait has launched initiatives in crisis-affected countries, including Afghanistan, Brazil, Iraq and Libya.

The Multi-Year Resilience Programme (MYRP), initiated in 2022 with an investment of $11.1 million, is part of these efforts. The MYRP focuses on improving education access by implementing various strategies. The poorest children receive cash transfers, and this helps to alleviate financial constraints on education. Investments go into training teachers to ensure the delivery of high-quality and inclusive education.

As of June 2023, the MYRP has yielded positive results in Libya. There are currently 723 teachers, and 28,000 children have benefited from additional support in schools, including improved sanitation and access to clean water. Furthermore, 2,975 children have received crucial free meals provided by the schools.

While these efforts show promise, the problem of child poverty in Libya requires further attention. There is a need for more commitment and vigilance from all involved parties working to drive change.

– Tom Eccles
Photo: Unsplash

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The Impact of Peruvian Coca Farming 

Peruvian Coca FarmingPeruvian anti-drug police seized 58 kilograms of cocaine, destined for Belgium, at the port of Paita, Peru in May 2023. The cocaine packages had the Nazi flag and the blocks had the imprint of the name “Hitler.” In March 2023, Peruvian authorities discovered 2.3 tonnes of cocaine that were to undergo transport to Turkey.

Cocaine from Peru goes to South American countries for domestic consumption or to further destinations such as Asia, Europe and the United States (U.S.) that have a high demand for the drug. Peru is the second largest producer of cocaine and cultivator of the coca leaf, the primary ingredient in cocaine, in the world, according to The Guardian. In 2021, Peru produced 785 metric tons of cocaine and cultivated 84,400 hectares.

Peruvian coca farming majorly contributes to increased deforestation rates of the Peruvian Amazon, the prevalence of child labor and poverty in rural areas. Several U.S. government programs are continuously collaborating with the Peruvian government to implement strategies to eradicate illicit coca, create alternative development projects, ban illegal narcotics and minimize domestic drug abuse.

Deforestation and Indigenous Communities

Illegal coca production has spread across the Peruvian Amazon during the pandemic due to minimal state presence. The center of the illegal drug trade in Peru is the Valley of the Apurímac, Ene and Mantaro Rivers (VRAEM). The VRAEM and several other parts of the forest are being “felled and burned” to make space for coca fields, contributing to deforestation. Not only is the number of illicit coca farms expanding, but the proliferation of laboratories converting coca leaves into cocaine and the construction of clandestine airstrips for drug trafficking are posing significant environmental threats. As a result, these activities contribute to the degradation of the natural habitat and ecosystems in the Amazon region. In addition, deforestation of the Amazon exacerbates climate change by releasing an increased amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, leading to a rise in the temperature of the Earth’s surface.

Peruvian coca farming is negatively impacting the hundreds of indigenous communities who live in the Amazon. The expansion of coca farming leads to the encroachment of ancestral indigenous lands which can result in the displacement of entire communities. The expansion of coca production also places community members at heightened vulnerability, increasing the risk of being forcibly recruited into the production process and becoming addicted to cocaine. Indigenous leaders and environmental activists have become targets of violence for openly opposing drug trafficking. Almost 20 local leaders have been killed since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Insight Crime.

How Coca Farming Targets Children

Many families who cultivate coca in Peru use child labor because children are too young for prosecution for illicit activity. In areas where coca production rises, there is a corresponding increase in the use of labor in those areas. According to Maria Sviatschi, when children are part of illegal labor markets, they acquire industry-specific skills at an early age. This often puts the children on “a criminal life path” in the cocaine industry. When these children grow up, they are 30% more likely to face imprisonment for violent and drug-related crimes. They are also 30% more likely to have lower earnings, consequently increasing poverty rates in Peru.

Illicit Coca Eradication and Poverty Reduction Efforts

During the pandemic, the national poverty rate increased to 30.1%. The U.S. The Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is collaborating with the Peruvian government and anti-drug police to eradicate illicit coca activities. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crim (UNODC) has worked with the Peruvian government and farmers for decades to provide alternative development opportunities to decrease poverty rates and boost economic growth through legal avenues. The project targets “endemic coca-producing” areas where there are high poverty rates.

Looking Ahead

Collaborative efforts between the Peruvian government, the U.S. and international organizations are making strides toward eradicating illicit coca activities and reducing poverty. Programs focused on alternative development and poverty reduction are providing opportunities for communities previously involved in Peruvian coca farming to pursue legal avenues of economic growth. By addressing the root causes of illicit coca production, these initiatives aim to contribute to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon.

– Surya Patil
Photo: Flickr

Addressing Child and Youth Poverty in the EU

Child and Youth Poverty in the EUResearch suggests that child and youth poverty in the EU is of significant concern. In light of this fact, several organizations are taking action to address the issue.

Youth Poverty in the EU

Eurostat research shows that young Europeans face a higher risk of experiencing poverty than the population as a whole. Whereas in 2021, about 20% of people aged 15-29 faced a risk of falling into poverty, and this risk stood at 17% for the EU population overall. Since 2010, the at-risk poverty rate for the age group 15-29 has remained higher than that of the general population, but the difference between these rates has decreased since hitting a peak in 2016.

In particular, Denmark notes the greatest discrepancy, with 25.6% of youth at risk of poverty in 2021 compared to 12.3% of the total population. On the opposite spectrum, Latvia, Malta, Estonia and Croatia reported significantly smaller gaps and the Czech Republic had the lowest percentage of children and youth at risk of poverty in the EU.

Eurostat data reveals that in 2021, Romania (23.1%), Bulgaria (18.7%) and Greece (14.2%) had the highest percentages of severely materially and socially deprived youth aged 15-29. For the general EU population, this rate stood at about 6%.

Eurostat also clarified that 11 of the 26 European Union members with data had a rate of less than 3%. These countries include Luxembourg, Poland, Sweden, Cyprus, Czechia, Netherlands, Croatia, Slovenia, Finland, Austria and Estonia.

Youth platform YPulse says inflation, higher costs of energy, slow income growths and global supply chain problems have impacted “living standards and spending habits of young Europeans,” making food insecurity, poverty and homelessness a more significant issue. Young Europeans have to resort to meeting only some of their basic needs instead of all due to these issues.

Child Poverty in the EU

The aid organization Save the Children reported in March 2023 that more than 200,000 children in the EU faced the risk of falling into poverty. This brings the total number of European children at risk of poverty to almost 20 million, or every fourth child, largely due to higher costs of living and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021,  about 2 million children residing in Germany endured poverty. Romania and Spain noted the worst statistics on children at risk of poverty or social exclusion at 33.4% and 41.5% respectively. Poverty and social exclusion rates among children appeared less intense in Finland and Denmark at 13.3% and 14% respectively.

Save the Children notes that the conflict in Ukraine has caused food prices to sore, making it more difficult for families to secure their food needs. The organization reports that “children with migrant backgrounds, refugees, asylum-seekers, undocumented and unaccompanied children are among the hardest hit. ” Additionally, “children living in single-parent families, large-disadvantaged families, children with disabilities [and] children belonging to ethnic minorities were also at risk.”

Tackling Child and Youth Poverty in the EU

The European Commission and UNICEF started a three-year commitment called the European Child Guarantee Phase III program in seven countries across the continent to resolve child poverty and social exclusion. The program came to a close in April 2023.

UNICEF’s website highlights the program’s impacts. “In Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Italy, the pilot [program] helped reach more than 30,000 children and young adults and 16,000 caregivers dealing with vulnerable groups, such as children with disabilities, children living in precarious family situations, children residing in institutions and refugee and migrant children.”

The program participants received assistance in the form of “early childhood education and care; inclusive education and school-based activities and nutrition; health care and family support [as well as] care and protection services,” UNICEF highlights.

Through the commitment of organizations and governments, there is hope that child and youth poverty can reduce, and Europe’s future young people can experience a life that is poverty-free.

– Klaudia Laura Sebestyen
Photo: Unsplash

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Combating Child Poverty in Bangladesh

Child Poverty in Bangladesh
According to the Center for Policy Dialogue in Bangladesh, in 2020, 46% of children in Bangladesh endured multidimensional poverty — the experience of several deprivations at once.  The government and organizations are taking action to address the pressing issue of child poverty in Bangladesh.

5 Facts About Child Poverty in Bangladesh

  1. Low Educational Attainment Rates. According to UNICEF, Bangladesh notes a primary school net enrolment rate of 97.42% but a primary school completion rate of 85.85%. The primary school drop-out rate is 14.15%. The secondary net enrolment rate is lower than primary, at 70.25%. The secondary school completion rate is also concerning, standing at just 64.24%. The secondary drop-out rate is 35.66%. This data comes from the Annual Primary School Census (APSC) 2021 and the Bangladesh Bureau of Educational Information and Statistics (BANBEIS). Poverty plays a significant role in these low completion and high dropout rates.
  2. Child Labor. A study that UNICEF conducted in 2019 revealed that every one out of 10 boys between the ages of 12 to 14 in Bangladesh hold full-time jobs. While the income that these children earn varies, most boys younger than 14 earn an income of less than $40 per month. Due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic pushing more families into poverty, more households have resorted to pulling their children out of school and pushing them into child labor to contribute to household income.
  3. Malnutrition. Stunting, which poor nutrition causes and detrimentally impacts the psychological and mental development of children, affects 36% of children under the age of 5 in Bangladesh, according to the World Food Programme (WFP). Moreover, this percentage rises to 50% among those who are living in extreme poverty and slums. About 5.5 million children under 5 suffer from chronic malnourishment.
  4. Gender Inequality. In Bangladesh, families tend to prioritize investing in the education of boys over girls. This is due to societal gender roles that dictate that females should bear the burden of household chores and caretaking. Impoverished families are also more likely to push their young daughters into child marriage to reduce the financial burden on the family.
  5. Insufficient Social Protection. UNICEF reports that about 30% of children in Bangladesh “live and sleep in public or open spaces (streets, stations, terminals, fields and parks) without the most basic amenities.” Additionally, about 82% of these children face abuse and harassment from pedestrians. According to Bangladesh’s Survey on Street Children 2022, children living on the street are vulnerable to illnesses. Additionally, a quarter of the street children surveyed report experiencing unjust treatment and abuse from law enforcement agencies. Despite these harsh conditions, 70% of street children in Bangladesh aspire to live a better life and many wish to attend school.

Taking Action to Reduce Child Poverty in Bangladesh

In 2013, the Bangladesh government collaborated with the World Bank to launch a program called Reaching Out of School Children (ROSCII). This initiative opened new opportunities for impoverished students to complete their primary education and pursue secondary education. Since 2017, the program provided quality primary education to 735,000 impoverished children from underserved rural areas and slums, with girls accounting for 50% of this number.

UNICEF reports that 90% of children in Bangladesh experience “physical punishment or psychological aggression” from caregivers or educators. To uphold the rights of children who experience violence, neglect and exploitation, UNICEF is striving to establish a child-friendly justice system in Bangladesh.

In 2015, the Government of Bangladesh launched the Income Support Program for the Poorest (ISPP), commonly known as the Jawtno program. “The program supported 600,000 poor pregnant women and mothers with children under five years, in locations with high child malnutrition and poverty rates. It provided cash payments to incentivize the parents’ use of services aimed at improving their children’s nutrition, cognitive development and readiness for school,” the World Bank highlights. The program recorded positive results. For instance, mothers used the cash payments to invest in their children’s development and engaged with their children more to strengthen the mother-child bond and prepare them for school.

The World Bank and UNICEF have supported the Bangladeshi government’s efforts to reduce child poverty in Bangladesh. With this support, the country’s government is working to ensure that all children live a higher quality of life.

– Gurjot Kaur
Photo: Flickr