Information and stories about developing countries.

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Child Soldiers in Sudan

Child Soldiers in SudanSudan has been rife with conflict since its first civil war in 1955 when the north and south clashed. In 2005, they agreed to stop fighting and in 2011, South Sudan became its own country. But in the meantime, there have been ongoing tensions, especially in the Darfur region since 2003. Even though they made another peace deal in 2020 to have a temporary government, there was a military coup soon after and the fighting started again in 2023.

Across Sudanese conflicts, child soldiers are a consistent humanitarian concern, with most nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) emphasizing their recruitment in the South. However, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), approximately 6,500 children served in armed groups in northern Sudan during the civil war, with around 70% serving in Darfur alone. This trend continued with armed groups recruiting more than 400 children between 2011 and 2020 and an 11% increase in recruitment just in 2023.

The Multi-Faceted Reality of Child Soldiers in Sudan

Children become soldiers for a variety of reasons. While some are forced into service by armed groups, many, especially those separated from their parents, do so “voluntarily.” Sudan’s conflict has caused extreme poverty and widespread violence, leaving children with few alternatives than to turn to the armed forces simply out of a need for their resources and protection.

Though some children may become soldiers consensually, such activity is still a violation of international humanitarian law. It can have severe long-term consequences on child soldiers, ranging from physical to psychological illness. The experiences of child soldiers, which are often the drivers of such trauma, are characterized by violence during an age when development is most vulnerable.

Child soldiers are not only combatants but may, in fact, serve a variety of roles. Recruitment may mean a child is utilized in the armed forces as a cook, porter, messenger or spy; many sexually exploit children, too. Limiting the scope of what a child soldier is to exclude these distinct forms of abuse can leave certain victims out of the reintegration process.

Understanding this nuance is crucial not only for grasping how child soldiers in Sudan serve but also for pinpointing where they serve. Though initially conscripted in areas like Darfur, many armed groups train child soldiers in Sudan for the sole purpose of being sent to combat zones elsewhere. Several reports indicate that dangerous conflicts ranging from Yemen to Libya may employ child soldiers from Sudan.

Solutions

Several organizations have played key roles in aiding child soldiers in Sudan and Darfur. In 2007, the United Nations (U.N.) initiated the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) to mediate hostilities, aiding child soldiers’ transition back into society through a process known as Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR). UNAMID oversaw several releases of child soldiers for reintegration. In 2011, The Sudan Liberation Army / Historical Leadership (SLA/HL) released 70 child soldiers, of which 24 were girls. Similarly, the Sudanese government released 21 child soldiers in 2016. Following the 2020 peace agreement, UNAMID ended its operations.

Subsequently, the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission (UNITAMS) was created to uphold the peace agreement and oversee Sudan’s transition to democratic rule. Continuing much of UNAMID’s goals, UNITAMS had “a strong child protection mandate,” which allowed for the monitoring of any human rights violations against children and the further facilitation of DDR. However, a military coup stopped the democratic transition in 2021, preventing UNITAMS from fulfilling this mandate. UNITAMS ultimately ended its operations on Feb. 29, 2024.

NGOs have also been essential to ending the recruitment of child soldiers in Sudan, with one of them being War Child. War Child is known for many campaigns, but in 2019, it launched its Can’t Wait to Learn program in Sudan, intervening in children’s education as early as possible to dissuade them from becoming soldiers. This targets the issue of recruitment at its source, bringing quality education to an impoverished population. War Child reached 2,667 children in 2019 alone but ended its operations following the resumption of conflict.

Final Remark

Despite the challenges, supporting organizations working toward ending poverty and the recruitment of child soldiers remains one of the best strategies to ensure the future of reintegration and demobilization in Sudan.

– Jacob Rampino
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Landesa: Breaking the Poverty Cycle Through Land Rights

LandesaOver the last few centuries, many Western political philosophers, such as John Stuart Mill, have argued that property security is essential for humankind to maximize its potential for liberty and productivity. While almost all land and property are now legally protected in the Global North, only 30% of the world’s population has a legally registered title to their land and property, stifling economic growth and perpetuating poverty and marginalization. This is where Seattle-based organization Landesa comes in. To learn more about the organization’s work, The Borgen Project was privileged to speak with Tyler Roush, the Communications Director at Landesa.

About Landesa

Established as the “Rural Development Institute,” Landesa is a unique nongovernmental organization (NGO) aiming to tackle poverty through the power of formally and legally recognized Land Rights for individuals in the Global South. Worldwide, its valued work has helped to secure land rights for hundreds of millions of families. The NGO is a true inspiration, setting exceptionally high standards for working with and understanding the regional contexts in which it operates.

Landesa in Liberia: Land Rights Act 2018

One case highlighting the lengthiness and success of Landesa’s work is Liberia and the Land Rights Act, described as “one of the most progressive pieces of land rights legislation on the African continent.” Landesa began work in 2010 and, eight years later, had helped garner support for the Act through approval and ratification, “working alongside Liberian civil society, NGOs and the government.”

The significance of the Act was multidimensional, granting land rights to all Liberians for the first time and including strong provisions for women’s land rights. This was hugely significant since Landesa finds that “when women have stronger rights to land, they have more access to household resources, the family budget and decision making both within the household and in their local community.”

Furthermore, “women have unique insights into how land can be sustainably managed based on the types of responsibilities that they have in farming and growing food.” A large body of literature from credible organizations worldwide supports the idea that more land rights provisions for women specifically lead to increased gender equality, improved living conditions, food security, economic empowerment and reduced rates of domestic violence.

Landesa in Liberia: Post-Reform Work

Landesa’s work does not end with the successful passing of groundbreaking legislation. In fact, “after the passage of the Land Rights bill, even more work begins because now the law is in place, it needs to be implemented.” In many developing countries, a lack of education and low literacy rates can hinder land rights. So, Landesa’s next task in Liberia was to raise awareness about the new law. The Amplio Talking Books program does exactly that.

The talking book is a “durable, handheld audio device technology, developed by a Seattle-based partner, that has pre-recorded messages in local languages,” containing information about the newly found land rights and how individuals can utilize these. Community members will use and share these devices for several weeks before Landesa returns to assess what individuals have learned and answer questions. The Talking Books are then collected and taken to the next community. They have become “a really successful way to educate communities about their new rights.”

Landesa’s comprehensive education and support methods help promote peace, stability and sustainable economic development that will benefit all Liberians. Beyond the Talking Books, the organization is “supporting community land formalization, offering ongoing technical assistance for law and policy reform, strengthening government and community implementation capacity and building an evidence base to disseminate lessons to broader stakeholders.”

Projects for the Future

Roush explained to The Borgen Project that Landesa is an optimistic and bold organization that goes above and beyond in multiple regions. Another exciting effort is the Coastal Livelihoods and Mangroves Project, which “strengthens coastal land rights and promotes policies in six countries to reduce overuse of mangrove resources and protect both community livelihoods and ecosystems indispensable to confronting climate change.”

The significance of these mangrove forests is clear for both locals and non-locals, with more than 120 million individuals depending on the highly productive ecosystems for their livelihoods. Additionally, the ecosystems act as natural carbon sinks and shoreline protection from natural disasters. Landesa’s initiative is building momentum, with the organization working alongside “six countries, as well as with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), on improving law and policy around coastal access, coastal use rights for communities and helping to conserve and restore mangrove forests.”

Conclusion

Landesa is setting the standards of cultural understanding and sensitivity toward potentially divisive issues with a wholehearted commitment to the demanding work. The organization has assisted “720 million people in just the past five years.” With continued patience, hard work and long-term planning, there is no reason why the organization can’t help many more in the next five years.

– Arshiya Eslamdoust
Photo: Flickr

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Educational Programs Combat Extreme Poverty

Educational ProgramsResearch has proven that education is a powerful tool in significantly reducing the effects of poverty. In addition, activists and those on the ground have begun to use educational programs to improve social mobility, especially in the most poverty-stricken countries where citizens endure extreme social and economic conditions.

Educational Disparities 

For many citizens, a lack of education could be the source of many factors, including marginalization and poverty. Inequalities arise according to an individual’s socioeconomic status and how far-developed a country is. In developing and developed countries, it varies whether or not the ruling government is stable enough to sustain an equitable education system for its citizens.

Poverty remains one of the more persistent barriers, a seemingly neverending cycle. Poverty perpetuates lower literacy rates and such limitations reap consequences. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), more than “600 million children worldwide are unable to attain minimum proficiency levels in reading and mathematics, even though two-thirds of them are in school.” This is attributed to a need for more developed foundational skills, a direct result of poverty.

Educational Programs in Mitigating Extreme Poverty

Extensive measures from both government and community-based organizations are necessary to mitigate the direct effects of inadequate education on poverty. Such initiatives from the ground are critical because these communities work directly with those impacted by the effects of poverty. Nonprofit organizations provide educational materials and programs to the country’s most vulnerable and marginalized populations. That said, here are some educational initiatives working to end extreme poverty.

SEED Madagascar

Sustainable Environment, Education & Development (SEED) in Madagascar is a British nonprofit organization operating in Southeast Madagascar. According to its mission statement, this organization builds community and environmental resilience by focusing on critical elements, including education. One project the organization prioritizes is education infrastructure. In the Anosy Region, where the organization completes most of its projects, the chances of children completing primary school could be higher. Through its work, SEED Madagascar has already completed educational projects: repairing existing buildings, building new schools and providing facilities and furniture to schools that lack them.

What makes this organization stand out is the implementation of better health practices for the students who attend these schools. Students can expand and build their literacy skills while learning how to improve their health. According to a 2023 report conducted by the organization, “Programme Sekoly,” increased access to water, sanitation and hygiene resources and education for more than 400 students and more than 10 teachers in Sainte Luce Primary School. This action was taken to curb the spread of diseases and fatalities associated with inadequate access to water, sanitation and proper hygiene facilities, all of which are connected to poverty.

Pratham USA

This organization was founded in 1995 to provide education to Mumbai slums. It is recognized as one of India’s largest and most successful nongovernmental agencies. Pratham works extensively in developing initiatives that help bridge the gaps in the education system. Filling such gaps includes solutions based on technology, where children are experiencing increased access to digital learning options in their curriculum. According to an evaluation conducted by the program, around 80% of children could do basic arithmetic after six to eight weeks of instruction provided through a learning camp. Ultimately, the nonprofit has reached more than more than 75 million children and youth since its inception.

Looking Ahead

Government infrastructure is often severely limited in most underdeveloped countries. Recognizing and acknowledging organizations’ ground-level work in combating poverty may help increase awareness of education’s role in breaking poverty cycles. Just as a lack of education can cause poverty, education can also drastically change it. Education opens windows of opportunity related to achieving higher education and an increase in economic resources and jobs.

– Dominic Samaniego
Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Costa Rica

charities operating in Costa RicaCosta Rica is the most popular Central American country for tourists. People come from around the world to see its beautiful rainforests and beaches. However, like much of Central America, Costa Rica struggles with poverty and inequality. The level of poverty in Costa Rica has been increasing over the past few years. The studies estimate that over the past five years, poverty levels have increased by 2.3 percentage points. Some studies even state that a quarter of all Costa Ricans could have been living in impoverished households, as of 2022. This increased level of poverty is making society more dangerous for everyone. The number of homicides went up 40% between 2022 and 2023. As the situation worsens, these five charities operating in Costa Rica are more vital than ever.

SOS Children’s Villages

Children are an at-risk group in Costa Rica. In 2020, UNICEF found that “nearly 32% of all children and adolescents live in monetary poverty, of which 12% live in extreme poverty.”

SOS Children’s Village is helping some of the most vulnerable kids in society right now who struggle with poverty, child labor and violence and has been doing it since 1972. Currently, 190 kids attend the organization’s schools and kindergartens and 300 live in its care. The organization also created the YouthLinks program. This digital platform “connects young people with mentors in the country.” The mentors teach employable skills and job market advice to young people.

Cruz Roja

Cruz Roja operates in Costa Rica and is a part of the international Red Cross community. The organization has more than 5,000 volunteers throughout the country and has responded to an incident every minute in 2023.

The organization provides key medical services to Costa Ricans and has a fleet of around 600 ambulances operating in 122 communities around the country. Cruz Roja is also ready to provide humanitarian assistance in cases of natural disasters and has specialized units prepared to provide support in different environments and situations.

Hope Partners International

Hope Partners is a Christian organization that operates in Costa Rica. Its goal is to break the cycle of poverty and improve the lives of young people there.

Recently, the organization opened its first purpose-built facility in the Pavas neighborhoods in the capital San Jose. Pavas is one of the most deprived areas in San Jose where only 20% of residents have a high school diploma. The new facility will impact the lives of over 600 kids and it will provide a hub for Hope Partners to deliver their food and education programs.

Rahab Foundation

The U.S. Department of State recognizes Costa Rica as a Tier 2 country regarding its efforts to eliminate human trafficking, stating that the country “does not fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking but is making significant efforts to do so.”

Founded in 1997, the Rahab Foundation helps victims of human trafficking and the sex trade. It provides many different forms of help for the victims including job training, legal advice and psychological care. The foundation provides care and various classes to victims and their children. Women are also offered “offered vocational training in micro-enterprise administration, baking, sewing, jewelry making, quilting and cosmetology.”

Sex trade victims and their families often find themselves in the cycle of poverty. The Rahab Foundation helps these victims recover and create a healthy lifestyle for themselves and their children.

Hogar Siembra

As of 2023, Costa Rica registered more than “30,000 domestic violence complaints over the past four years, with an alarming 10,000 cases reported in 2023 alone.” Founded in 1983, Hogar Siembra is an organization providing shelter to girls aged 12 to 18 who have suffered from abuse or domestic violence.

The organization provides various kinds of training to these girls, teaching them simple habits such as hygiene and providing English language courses. It also provides regular therapy and mental health check-ups, alongside work opportunities and academic education, ensuring to prepare young girls for their adulthood.

Hogar Siembra allows young women to not be defined by their abuse. It is helping these victims restart their lives and create a prosperous future for themselves.

Costa Rica is struggling with poverty and its effects. The work of these five charities operating in Costa Rica is helping at-risk groups create a poverty-free future for themselves.

– Richard Sartor
Photo: Flickr

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Gaming in Africa: Human Development Benchmark

Gaming in Africa: Human Development BenchmarkIn 2009, Beth Kolko and Cynthia Putnam proposed the United Nations (U.N.) recognize video gaming, both creation and play, as a human development benchmark. The proposal, though initially seen as radical, has gained scientific support over time. Gaming in Africa is a significant aspect of this discussion.

Kolko and Putnam argue that gaming fosters the spread of computer technologies in areas and among groups that might otherwise lack access. They claim that “games constitute a significant portion of the ICT (information and communication technologies) ecology in developing regions and provide a pathway to people’s ‘first touch’ of a computer.” Understanding and utilizing technology in developing countries opens up local and international employment opportunities while educating communities. These opportunities are crucial for transitioning developing nations into developed ones capable of competing on the global stage.

Proliferation of Gaming in Developing Regions

Unfortunately, the 2009 proposal was denied and the matter has not been revisited by the U.N., but the scientific and social studies that have been done since have reinforced the concept of games as a benchmark of human development. The idea of gaming as an important step in the artistic and social development of a nation has not only been adopted by academics but also by nations all over the developing world.

Elevating Gaming in Africa

The Pan African Gaming Group (PAGG), an international collective of video game developers across Africa, aims to enhance the status of gamers and developers on the continent. In developing nations, gamers often find game consoles and high-end computers hard to access, prompting a shift to more affordable technology. Mobile gaming has engaged more than 186 million people throughout Africa, a demographic PAGG serves by collaborating with studios across the continent to create games that reflect African life.

Gaming’s Economic Potential

In a statement on its website, PAGG states “We believe that if games are culturally relevant to the local communities that we serve… create positive impacts in the lives of Africans and their community.” The group aims to foster a gaming community in Africa with the potential to become a significant force in the international market, a goal that appears to be bearing fruit.

Gam3s predicts that gaming in Africa will be a billion-dollar industry by the end of 2024. Key factors include wider internet access and more affordable cell phones, but Africa’s adaptation to modern gaming markets involves more complex strategies.

African Developers

Companies like Microsoft, Apple and EA rely heavily on credit card transactions for game purchases and subscriptions. However, with Africa’s credit card usage at only 2.7%, accessing games from major companies poses a challenge. Despite this, gaming in Africa continues to grow, due to innovative solutions tailored for the local market. These solutions include OPay, a digital bank based out of Nigeria and the sale of game vouchers in local stores and supermarkets, making gaming more accessible to a broader audience.

Innovations have paved the way for African developers like Leit Arts, Kayfo Games and Digital Mania to gain recognition. With strong local support and growing interest from international gamers, these companies could transform Africa into a key player in online creation, gaming and community building in the digital world.

– Charles McFadden

Charles is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Zambia’s Cholera Outbreak: The Battle for Public Health

Zambia’s Cholera OutbreakZambia’s recent cholera outbreak has been the catalyst for significant hardships for its population, with devastating consequences for public health. Since October 2023, there have been more than 10,887 cholera cases, with more than 432 reported deaths.

Cholera is a waterborne illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, which produces a toxin in the small intestine, leading to loss of fluids and electrolytes. The bacterium manifests itself in contaminated water, which in turn affects underdeveloped countries lacking resources for proper water supplies and sewage disposal.

Densely populated areas such as Lusaka, with limited or no access to clean water and sanitation, are facing the worst consequences, with a devastating 4,443 cumulative cholera cases since October 2023.

Government Initiatives

In response to Zambia’s cholera outbreak, the Zambian government has taken decisive action through robust initiatives, including the Multi-sectoral Cholera Elimination Plan (MCEP) 2019-2025, with the aim to eliminate cholera by 2025. The MCEP has set six targets, including, but not limited to, improved surveillance of cases, reduction of the overall mortality rate of cholera by 90%, accelerated access to safe drinking water and conduction of oral cholera vaccination campaigns.

According to the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply and Sanitation, 39% of Zambia’s population does not have access to basic drinking water services. In comparison, 69% do not have access to basic sanitation services. The MCEP has estimated that in order to reach its targets, Zambia will need to provide basic water supply to 660,000, basic sanitation to 1.16 million and basic hygiene services to 1.46 million people yearly. In order to do so, the MCEP has set a budget for $99,345,493 over seven years, with $67,877,076 dedicated directly to water supply, sanitation and hygiene.

NGOs and International Aid Efforts

In addition to government initiatives, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and international aid agencies have played a crucial role in addressing Zambia’s cholera outbreak. For example, Oxfam and the Keepers Zambia Foundation (KZF) are working together to train volunteers to be health promoters. Volunteers help people who fall ill with cholera get oral rehydration therapy, refer patients to the hospital and encourage people to practice good hygiene. Furthermore, Oxfam is working with KZF to provide oral rehydration salts and chlorine to treat unsafe water, as well as providing equipment such as soap and clean buckets to prevent the further spread of cholera.

Another example of international aid efforts comes from WaterAid. The organization calls on global governments and stakeholders to invest funds in sustainable water resources, sanitation and hygiene services to support Zambia both immediately and in the future. Moreover, WaterAid Zambia is working with local Zambian communities to fight against waterborne diseases such as cholera. This includes education on basic hygiene practices and promotion of community-led sanitation initiatives. These are sustainable, long-term changes that address the root causes of the cholera outbreak in order to prevent any possible future outbreaks.

Innovations in Cholera Prevention

There are currently three WHO pre-qualified oral cholera vaccines: Dukoral, Shanchol and Euvichol. All of these vaccines require two doses for full protection. Dukoral requires a buffer solution of 150ml of clean water and protects for two years. Shanchol and Euvichol, however, do not require a buffer solution and protect from cholera for three years.

The latter two are currently available for mass vaccination campaigns in areas with an outbreak through the Global Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) stockpile, supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Currently, a mix of live, killed and conjugated vaccines are in development with the hopes of long-term protection and easy administration.

Conclusion

Zambia’s cholera outbreak has underscored the critical need for comprehensive public health interventions to address waterborne diseases effectively. While significant progress has been and continues to be made through government initiatives, NGO efforts and international aid efforts, challenges such as limited supplies and heightened demand persist. However, with sustained commitment, investment and community engagement, Zambia can work towards a future where the impact of cholera outbreaks is minimized and public health resilience is strengthened.

– Emily Weir
Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Child Labor in Africa

Child Labor in AfricaChild labor in Africa is more prominent than in any other region, with more than 70 million child laborers. Millions of children are robbed of their right to education and protection, perpetuating cycles of poverty, inequality and social exclusion that they carry with them throughout their lives. So, tackling child labor is a priority for many organizations, like Fairtrade and World Vision.

Child Labor

Child labor is defined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) as “work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity and that is harmful to physical and mental development.” Many millions of children are involved in child labor. A staggering 79 million children aged 5 to 17 engaged in hazardous work as of 2020. The predominant sphere of such exploitation is agriculture, accounting for a staggering 85%. In this sector, children are subjected to hazardous conditions as they engage in tasks ranging from herding livestock to subsistence and commercial farming, jeopardizing their well-being and safety.

Causes

Many factors cause child labor, ones that are intertwined and reinforce one another. However, poverty is the most significant cause of child labor. It pushes families to rely on children for income to fulfill their basic needs like food, shelter and health care. So, for the survival of the family, children are sent to work instead of school to contribute to household income. Similarly, aspects such as job loss or the loss of primary income, as well as parental illness, can increase pressure on children to work and contribute financially to help support the family.

Limited access to education is also an important consideration. Inadequate facilities and poor quality of schooling lead to the perception of education being unnecessary to both parents and children. This perception can force children into labor at a young age. Without access to education, children have fewer opportunities to advance their futures – thus continuing this cycle of poverty.

Further, cultural and social norms significantly contribute to perpetuating child labor. In some communities, some beliefs work contributes to children’s “character-building and skill development.” Cultural norms and practices of child labor are so entrenched that parents and children do not perceive the adverse effects on children’s well-being and rights.

Fairtrade’s Help

Fairtrade understands the importance of effectively addressing child labor issues by considering several key factors. These include improving family incomes and enhancing access to quality education. Additionally, it combats discrimination and exploitation, promoting awareness of child rights, implementing legal interventions and fostering social changes within communities.

By improving income for farmers through Fairtrade Minimum Prices and Premium, Fairtrade is confronting poverty as a primary factor of child labor. These initiatives play a crucial role, as producers can reinvest in their communities with their financial exploits. This reinvestment includes constructing schools, enabling children to pursue higher education and protecting children from the detrimental impact of child labor.

World Vision’s Help

World Vision is tackling child labor through education. By teaching children their rights, the organization is empowering them with knowledge and skills to advocate for their rights and protect themselves from exploitation. It uses initiatives like vocational, life skills and entrepreneur training to improve opportunities for their future.

Community mobilization is also a key approach to World Vision tackling child labor, as it helps break down the cultural and social norms that cause child labor to persevere. World Vision trains people, like parents and faith leaders, in the community to bring about positive change and address damaging cultural and social norms.

Further, World Vision supports children and families through donations. It allows the organization to improve food security and incomes for families. Additionally, children do not need to resort to working to generate revenue for the family. Furthermore, World Vision also advocates and lobbies for national policies so children’s rights are prioritized.

The issue of child labor in Africa remains a significant challenge, with millions of children deprived of their rights. Rooted in poverty, social norms and limited access to education, child labor perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. However, organizations like Fairtrade and World Vision are at the forefront of efforts to tackle child labor in Africa and address these root causes.

– Isabella Green
Photo: Flickr

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3 Facts About Maternal Mental Health in Iran

Maternal Mental Health in IranAccording to the Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, “The prevalence of psychological birth trauma has been reported at a rate between 20% to 30%,” which can result in mental health complications in new mothers. Often, these complications go untreated. In Iran, the majority of the population is Muslim and views birthing as a sacred and noble act. Over recent decades, infant and maternal mortality during childbirth has decreased significantly, with 95% of births taking place at the hospital.

Despite these positive advancements, the act of giving birth is seen as a practice that only women can witness. Therefore, fathers and male doctors do not partake or aid the mother while she is in labor. Midwives are present at some hospitals, but not enough to attend to every mother. Often, the mothers are left to give birth alone. This instills significant anxiety in new mothers: “According to a study in a health care center in Tehran, 46.5%, 12.1% and 11.1% of mothers experience post-trauma stress disorders, anxiety and depression respectively four to six weeks after a traumatic birth.”

Attitudes Around Mental Health in Iranian Women

Roughly a quarter of Iranian women suffer from mental health complications, such as depression and anxiety. Based on a study in the Iranian Journal of Public Health, women in Iran conceptualize mental health as emotional stability and the ability to function in day-to-day life with a sense of fulfillment. Mental health also includes sound decision-making, a lack of behavioral problems and a healthy family dynamic.

The journal notes, “According to participants’ views, people with high self-esteem, realistic beliefs, sense of control, essence or spirituality are satisfied.” Key concerns regarding mental health include poverty, marital issues, parental divorce, patriarchal attitudes, social stigmas and lack of religion/faith. Many women also believe that personal failings, such as jealousy or egoism, contribute to mental dysregulation.

Demographics and Maternal Mental Health

In terms of maternal mental health in Iran, especially in new mothers, a large theme is a sense of helplessness. In a study by the Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, many new mothers explain that, despite calling for help, they were not given attention. This experience resulted in them feeling alone and afraid. Additionally, they felt that if a birth complication should arise, they would not be assisted, resulting in their death or the death of their child. Many conceptualize this feeling as a “loss of control.”

They also note that the hospitals are not a comforting or suitable environment for childbirth. Some mothers note that this experience dissuades them from wanting to give birth again, resulting in a sense of insecurity. The journal notes that this experience is prevalent across demographics: “Regardless of their education, knowledge, socioeconomic status and place of delivery, they expressed their fear.”

Resources for Iranian Mothers Through Midwifery

Increasing and supporting access to reproductive health resources is the most direct way to accommodate maternal mental health in Iran. A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) urges developing the roles of midwives beyond aiding women in hospitals during labor: “Midwives are well placed within communities; therefore, defining and expanding their roles will result in better accessibility and availability of sexual and reproductive health care.”

Midwives need to be accessible beyond the hospital context and be more engaged on a community level. This can be done through house visits, general education and skill-sharing. The study notes that midwives could also be used as a source of information and education. This would prepare new mothers for labor and inform them of the process prior to their due date. The study also explains that many midwives are given training that they do not implement in the hospital sphere. Ultimately, this results in the loss of these skills. WHO suggests that additional training courses be provided to these midwives, specifically to better deal with pregnancy complications and stressors surrounding labor.

While poor maternal mental health in Iran is a concern, there are accessible modes of combating these complications through education and community. Midwives are a staple in the birthing process. With advancements in the roles of Iranian midwives, new mothers will be better prepared and can avoid unnecessary stressors during childbirth.

– Anna Williams
Photo: Pexels

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Poverty in Ghana: Challenges and Solutions

The Ripple Effects of Poverty in Ghana: Challenges and SolutionsGhana, known as the “island of peace,” is located on the West Coast of Africa, an area often described as one of the most chaotic regions in the world. Agriculture, the nation’s primary sector, employs about 40% of the workforce. However, the country continues to face challenges, with a 2022 World Bank report revealing that approximately 27% of Ghanaians lived below the poverty line due to high inflation and slow economic growth. In an interview with Joyce Bingham, the Borgen Project delves into poverty in Ghana, examining its consequences, obstacles and feasible remedies.

Agricultural Reliance and Poverty in Ghana

In Ghana, the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) reports indicate significant nutritional deficiencies among children. It highlights that one in five children experience stunted growth, while two-thirds of those aged 6 months to 2 years lack sufficient nutrition. Malnutrition compromises their immunity, increases susceptibility to infections, impacts brain development and can be fatal. Hence, the World Food Program (WFP) partners with Ghana’s government to bolster food security and nutrition, mitigate malnutrition and improve the food system. This initiative is vital, as the visible undernourishment of many Ghanaian children underscores poverty’s profound effect on youth.

Joyce Bingham, a representative for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, lived in Ghana for two years with her husband Thomas. The Borgen Project spoke with Joyce about the local diet in Abomosu, a small village located in the eastern region of Ghana. According to her, “most families ate one meal a day and it was made out of cassava, which is a root that they would tend to have on farms, chickens or pig fat used for energy.” In addition, approximately 90% of Ghanaian families rely on agriculture to feed their children, with cassava as a crucial source of calories and carbohydrates. The fact that many families can afford only one meal a day highlights the impact of poverty in the country. To combat this, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has supported more than 63,000 farms, emphasizing the importance of agricultural aid in poverty reduction.

Water Accessibility and Housing Conditions

UNICEF reports that one in 10 Ghanaians spends more than 30 minutes to access clean water. Additionally, around 76% of households in Ghana face the risk of consuming water contaminated with fecal matter, yet only 4% properly treat their water before drinking. According to Joyce, “Women would come with their big buckets, and fill it with clean water and put it on their head and carry it for miles to have clean water in their home.” Therefore, access to clean water in Ghana is challenging, prompting UNICEF to partner with the Ghanaian government to ensure safe drinking water for all citizens. This initiative addresses the significant role water plays in the poverty experienced across the country.

In Ghana, many homes are constructed from makeshift materials such as cardboard boxes or tin sheets discarded from trucks, leading to unsafe living conditions. These environments can cause health issues including asthma, poisoning, injuries and respiratory infections. Hence, addressing Ghana’s housing crisis is crucial, and various organizations alongside the Ghanaian government are taking steps to improve the situation. The government has introduced a revised national affordable housing program aimed at reducing the housing deficit, which is a significant step toward ensuring safer living conditions.

Overcoming Educational Barriers

Thousands of children in Ghana miss out on education due to overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of supplies and textbooks and often, teachers lack adequate training. Joyce stated, “They have to pay for their education, it wasn’t free. So only those who had a farm would fund their children.” Given this, UNICEF collaborates with Ghana’s Ministry of Education and Ghana Education Service to ensure all children can access and benefit from education, addressing financial barriers to schooling. This initiative is crucial as education directly influences poverty reduction in Ghana.

Guardians in Abomosu aspire to provide their children with broad opportunities. Joyce highlighted, “Most of the time if you are born in Abomosu, you die in Abomosu. Parents wanted their children to know that there was a better world outside of the village.” Parents in Ghana make great sacrifices to send their children on educational field trips to Accra, recognizing the value of learning and experiencing life beyond their village.

Moreover, such opportunities are crucial for children’s development, offering insights into the world outside their immediate surroundings and playing a key role in building a better future. These experiences are instrumental in combating the cycle of poverty in Ghana by broadening children’s horizons and enhancing their educational journey.

Addressing Adolescent Pregnancy

Ghana faces significant challenges with adolescent pregnancy, especially among girls aged 15 to 19, with a birth rate of nearly 76 out of 1,000 births in this age group. In addition, these early pregnancies often lead to health risks and limited support resources. The Ghana Education Services and the Girls Education Unit are collaborating to develop guidelines aimed at preventing pregnancy and assisting young mothers in returning to school, thereby reducing the impact of poverty through educational support for young women.

Poverty in Ghana: Future Impact

Ghana’s concerted efforts to address agricultural reliance, water accessibility, housing conditions, educational barriers and adolescent pregnancy lay the groundwork for significant advancements in overcoming poverty. Moreover, these initiatives promise a brighter future where every Ghanaian can access the essentials for a healthy and productive life, breaking the cycle of poverty and opening new pathways for the nation’s growth.

– Abby Trussell

Abby is based in Rexburg, ID, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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3 Initiatives Improving Mental Health in Kuwait

Mental Health in KuwaitIn the past, much of the stigmatization around mental health in Kuwait has stemmed from the idea that parents are to blame for the mental illnesses of their families and that those seeking help and relief have done so at the cost of their reputations. However, in recent years, Kuwait has been doing much to reframe this narrative in three major ways:

Kuwait’s First Mental Health Law

The Kuwait government issued Law No. 14 in February 2019 to protect individuals with mental health issues. This marked a major stride in the country’s efforts to improve its response to mental health concerns, mainly because there was no previous law governing mental health in Kuwait. Before the implementation of the Mental Health Law, individuals experiencing mental health challenges couldn’t be held at a facility, even if leaving posed a risk of harm. However, Article 11 of the Mental Health Law grants physicians the authority to detain patients for up to 72 hours during an evaluation period (the “Assessment Period”). This detention protects patients and others around them from danger. It also provides a clear guideline for what to do when one is incapable of self-care or consenting to voluntary assessment or treatment.

Additionally, the law sparked the creation of the Mental Health Coordinating Council (MHCC), whose members are responsible for following up on the application of the law and its regulations. The implementation of the MHCC means that for mental health in Kuwait, there is a body of individuals dedicated to protecting the rights of mental health patients by developing policies in their best interests. One of these rights includes the fact that, under the Mental Health Law, those with mental health conditions should not be prohibited from obtaining a job, marking the law’s intent to prevent stigma and isolation for mental health patients in the workforce.

Kuwait’s Response to the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

As a result of the pandemic, rates of anxiety and depression, especially among the elderly and those with disabilities, increased, possibly due to fears about harboring the disease in conjunction with isolation and lockdowns limiting access to medical support. In response, the Kuwait Ministry of Health, through the country’s Center for Mental Health and Central Administration for Primary Care, launched several new initiatives to both improve health care access and overcome the limitations of isolation and lockdowns:

  • The Kuwait Center for Mental Health launched a hotline (+965 2462 1770) that operates daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • The Ministry of Health launched an interactive platform called “Shlonik,” which provides health information to patients, monitors their safety and provides psychosocial support.
  • Specialized psychiatric clinics delivered psychotropic medicines to patients’ homes, allowing for the continued progress of their treatment.
  • Mental health care providers working in the private sector utilized social media, newspapers and TV channels to provide education regarding coping with psychological problems. Some providers even offered frontline workers free remote psychosocial support.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that migrant workers and stateless individuals residing in Kuwait, often living in close-knit communities, have disproportionately felt the impact of COVID-19. This is due to their disadvantaged position, as they do not have access to free secondary health care. Access to mental health services remains a significant issue for this demographic, given the steep costs associated with diagnosis, psychiatric consultations and therapy sessions, which are considerably higher than those for Kuwaiti nationals.

The Improvement of Mental Health and Wellness Services in Kuwait

The Fawzia Sultan Health Care Network (FSHN), founded in 2006, is Kuwait’s first and only nonprofit mental health provider. It has been providing many health care services, including family medicine, cardiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and psychological services in research and education settings.

While it started as a specialized physiotherapy clinic, the organization soon realized that the health care needs of Kuwait ran much deeper. So, its approach expanded and became much more multidisciplinary. This expansion marked a shift in attitudes regarding mental health in Kuwait and is likely one of the factors that ultimately led to the creation of the Mental Health Law in 2019. The early efforts of FSHN and the later development of the Mental Health Law serve as evidence of the impact that dedication to a specific cause can have, even if that impact is only realized years later.

Final Remark

In a region where mental illness is still considered taboo, the Mental Health Law, along with the impact of health organizations and wellness services, highlights a continuous effort in Kuwait to improve protections for patients with mental illnesses.

– Avery Fuller
Photo: Pexels