Archive for category: Developing Countries

Information and stories about developing countries.

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Poverty in Iraqi-Kurdistan

Poverty in Iraqi-KurdistanMost of Kurdistan’s poverty is concentrated in the rural and border areas, where a large segment of the population lacks access to basic services, education, health care and employment. Iraq is an oil-wealthy country. However, the wealth tends to be concentrated in certain areas and has not trickled down to Kurdistan. In comparison to Iraq’s majority Arab population, poverty rates among Kurds tend to be a bit lower in central and southern Iraq, where the majority of Arabs in the country live. Yet, these areas have still not fully recovered from two major wars, ongoing terrorism and persistent government corruption.

Systematic Oppression

The systematic oppression of Kurds has been a longstanding issue in Iraq, with policies such as the Anfal campaign further exacerbating this. The Anfal campaign was implemented between 1986-1989 and sought to dismantle Kurdish groups seeking self-governance and displace Kurds from their villages, particularly in the oil-rich area of Kirkuk. Former president Saddam Hussein Arabized many Kurdish regions in this area, leading to mass displacement, loss of land and the economic network that was created by the native population.

The Halabja massacre in 1988, an extension of the Anfal campaign, was a chemical attack undertaken by the military that resulted in the death of up to 5,000 Kurds and led to the destruction of farmland, mass displacement and the depreciating health of citizens, inhibiting them from working which increased poverty among this population. The former government also moved the Kurdish population from their native lands to collective towns (also referred to as mujamma’at), which restricted their movement and were far away from the country’s economic hubs, putting them in economic isolation. These areas were systematically neglected in terms of development, while other regions in Iraq benefited from infrastructural improvements and oil wealth.

Current Tensions and Poverty in Iraqi-Kurdistan

While the Kurdish region in Iraq has a level of autonomy, meaning that they have more rights to their local resources, they are still heavily reliant on the central government for its oil revenue. The oil is often withheld due to political disagreements between Baghdad and The Kurdish Regional Government. This has led to delayed salaries and cuts in funding for public services and infrastructural investments, exacerbating poverty in the region. Additionally, decades of underinvestment in Kurdistan prior to Saddam Hussein’s government and during his reign have led to a lack of proper infrastructure, with roads, health care and education in rural areas remaining inadequate. This limits economic opportunities for those living in these areas compared to more urban areas of Kurdistan and wealthier majority Arab areas of southern Iraq.

The Kurdish Regional Government remains deeply divided, with two rival factions, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), being in charge of different areas of the region. Tensions between these two parties have caused a delay in economic reform due to their lack of cooperation and prioritizing their interests rather than regional ones, which also weakens their ability to negotiate on a national level with the central government. Their rivalry has also caused revenue-sharing issues, particularly oil, which has fostered further instability. Both parties are also guilty of corruption and economic mismanagement and keep a large segment of the wealth for themselves and the elite class.

Organizations Reducing Poverty in Iraqi-Kurdistan

Despite the current circumstances, both international and local organizations, such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) and Kurdistan Save the Children (KSC), are fighting against poverty by distributing humanitarian aid to vulnerable communities in rural areas and displaced people. The UNDP Iraq has supported the Kurdistan Regional Government to develop a Public-Private Partnership Framework, which encourages the private sector to work with the public sector to deliver services such as health care, roads, electricity and water.

Additionally, the NRC supports displaced people in Iraqi Kurdistan by facilitating access to essentials such as education, shelter and food. The NRC has assisted 31,085 people through its education program, provided shelter for 141,613 individuals and supported 16,212 people through its food program. Local organizations, such as the KSC, focus on the well-being of children by providing access to education, health care and mental health services.

The Future

The future of the region remains uncertain, as tensions between the two rival factions of the KRG are likely to persist, along with ongoing disagreements over the distribution of oil revenue. These issues will continue to contribute to the already high levels of poverty in Iraqi Kurdistan. The region’s future depends on the PUK and the KDP finding ways to resolve their tensions and improve their relations with the central government in Baghdad. Additionally, there is a pressing need for both parties to diversify the economy and lessen their reliance on oil.

– Floria Persis

Floria is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UNICEF’s Action Against Child Displacement in the DRC

Child Displacement in the DRCThe Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the largest country in sub-Saharan Africa, with a population of nearly 100 million. The DRC is rich in natural minerals, hydropower potential and extensive arable land. However, most of the population is unable to benefit from this wealth. The DRC faces political instability, autocratic leaders and long-term conflict. The country is in a humanitarian crisis, with much of the population, including children, experiencing displacement and extreme poverty. Many nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are providing aid to help people affected by displacement, such as UNICEF’s action against militia-induced child displacement in the DRC.

Militia-Induced Child Displacement in the DRC

Much of the DRC is controlled by militia rebel groups, with territories seized on a regular basis. Its east and north provinces experience the most unrest, with violent killings of adults and children, as well as the ransacking of homes, schools and health centers. Families are often separated and forced out of their villages into crowded settlements without safe water, health care and basic services. More than eight million people in the DRC are “acutely food insecure.” Alongside the internal displacement of its citizens, the DRC also hosts refugees from neighboring conflict-affected countries.

Children are being recruited as militia fighters and subjected to sexual assault, violence and separation from their families. Rebel forces have displaced three million children from their homes. The Rwandan-backed M23 rebels are causing mass displacement of civilians and humanitarian organizations in eastern DRC. Recently, militia forces shelled refugee camps in the region, killing 17 people, most of whom were children.

UNICEF’s Mission

Without urgent humanitarian aid, children will continue to suffer. Malnutrition, disease and displacement to unsafe areas are causing high child mortality rates. UNICEF faces challenges while delivering aid due to dangerous environments and weak transport infrastructure for delivering resources. However, UNICEF’s action against militia-induced displacement of children in the DRC, alongside other national partner NGOs, works to provide urgent basic services. These include tarpaulins for shelter, cooking utensils, clean water and sanitation. It also has three long-term initiatives:

  1. Safe Spaces: UNICEF collaborates with local governments and NGOs to provide safe spaces for children. It focuses on providing protective services for survivors of sexual violence, forced military recruitment and separation from their families. In addition to providing physical protection, UNICEF also provides mental health and psychosocial support.
  2. Health Care: Militia groups have invaded many health care centers. The rebels use the premises to set up bases, cutting off basic health services to the population. UNICEF provides support to primary health centers in conflict areas. In 2023, these centers reached more than 375,000 children younger than 5.
    Children are provided with health checkups, including routine and emergency immunizations, to prevent the outbreak of diseases such as polio. UNICEF is also responding to the latest cholera outbreak. The organization provides communities with safe drinking water and water treatment kits. The NGO has people on the ground providing decontamination services for homes, as well as prevention techniques such as awareness and surveillance.
  3. Education: Educational institutions have also been overrun by rebels forcing children out of education. In response, UNICEF has built temporary education units to allow displaced children the opportunity to continue their education safely. It provides school supplies, remedial classes, psychotherapy support and encourages peacebuilding activities.

The Future

In 2019, the DRC appointed a new president, Félix Tshisekedi. He promised major reforms in a bid to transform the country’s image of poverty and war into a growing economy and a favorable place for investment. With support, the Congolese government is attempting to overthrow militia groups and reassert authority in the country.

Similarly, in 2022, the World Bank Group set up the Country Partnership Framework (CPF). This four-year strategy promotes the stabilization and development of the DRC. A large focus of the CPF is on human development and improving essential services such as education, health and social welfare. In 2023, the DRC received more than $8.6 billion from the World Bank to fund 23 development initiatives.

The DRC still suffers from fragility and conflict. However, missions such as UNICEF’s action against militia-induced child displacement in the DRC and the Country Partnership Framework are having positive impacts on the country’s security, economy and the well-being of its people.

– Millie Trussler

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

Photo: Flickr

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Solar Power in Uganda Supports Educational Goals

Solar power in UgandaRefugees often seek resettlement services after natural disasters and war-related events. Individuals and families use these resettlement services to relaunch their lives and to find stability after disaster events. However, most resettlement encampments need a reliable connection to a power supply and internet services to serve refugee populations. Without these resources, staff may struggle to onboard new members and refugees may struggle to reconnect with society.

Good Actors and Initiatives

Jon Paul Ojok developed a mobile solar power box to supply electricity to students in West Nile region in Uganda. Drawing on his experience as a developer at the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Ojok created a device that can be easily moved through neighborhoods and communities to provide affordable internet and electricity to remote villages and camps. Ojok’s solar power box allows students to access course materials and complete assignments. The long-term success of these students will contribute to the goal of upward mobility and the growth of local communities. The solar power box also provides stable electricity and internet to UNHCR staff, enabling them to connect with and retain more refugees for resettlement services.

The Mobile Solar Computer Classroom (MSCC) is a similar initiative serving Ugandan students. For this project, solar panels are attached to an all-terrain vehicle equipped with computers and a router. The project has improved digital literacy and academic performance in local schools. Since 2008, MSCC has trained more than 37,000 students, 200 teachers and 2,000 out-of-school youths in more than 80 schools and 20 libraries. Approximately 70% of the schools MSCC has worked with have seen improved academic performance at the national level.

Impacts of Solar Initiatives

According to the World Bank, about 41.3% of Ugandans lack access to electricity. Uganda’s power grid, though operational, is not always stable, with professionals and students most likely to experience service interruptions. As more people enter the country, innovations in solar power will help reduce stress on the grid and improve the ability of both native Ugandans and refugees to work toward a middle-class life.

According to Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan, educational and industrial advancements made possible by solar power will improve living standards. Enhancing the country’s grid infrastructure will increase the reliability of clean energy connections in the next 10 to 30 years. This will enable Uganda to better support transitioning its youth and students into a self-sustaining, independent workforce.

Final Note

Solar power in Uganda will lead to more equitable access to essential resources such as electricity and internet services. As access improves, students across all regions will receive a stronger foundational education, promoting the resilience of future generations. Expanding solar power to more remote locations ensures no person or family is left behind, increasing the region’s chances of securing a just, peaceful and equitable future.

– Karina Dunn

Karina is based in Mesquite, TX, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Uganda Paves the Way for Palliative Care in Africa

Palliative Care in AfricaPalliative care is crucial in mitigating the suffering of individuals who are suffering from serious and/or terminal illnesses. Of the 54 African countries, 43 have no access to basic palliative care systems. Furthermore, even fewer can provide high-quality care to those who need it. Uganda is paving the way for palliative care in Africa. The country is building a nationwide service for citizens to receive care and comfort in the final stages of their lives.

Current Situation in Africa

Basic palliative care services are unavailable in 79.6% of Africa. The vast majority of the continent’s seriously ill population is denied specialized assistance that would improve their quality of life. Relieving the suffering and stress from somebody’s final days is widely regarded as the compassionate thing to do, as palliative care supports both a patient and their loved ones through difficult times.

Palliative care, when available, is offered to people with illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, dementia and HIV/AIDS. In 2023, there were approximately 396,200 AIDS-related deaths in Africa. The data suggests that most of these individuals would not have had the appropriate medical care, guidance and comfort in the lead-up to their passing. Similarly, it is estimated that 367,000 Africans get diagnosed with dementia annually; again, it can be implied that few of these people receive palliative care that would provide comfort in a time of confusion.

Furthermore, half a million Africans are believed to die from cancer annually. In the next 50 years, the figure is projected to increase by 40%. Therefore, palliative care services need to be implemented now so that the future is as comfortable as possible for those facing cancer and other serious illnesses.

Uganda Paving the Way

Uganda’s population is currently estimated at 46 million and is growing at a rate of 2.9%. This expanding East African nation is making remarkable progress in palliative care, following a comprehensive framework that supports everyone involved in the medical process: patients, health care staff and their loved ones.

The Palliative Care Association of Uganda

The Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU) is one of the key forces driving this positive change in Uganda. Established in 1999, the organization provides holistic care and pain relief for needy people. With more than 1,500 individual members and 230 medical facilities offering PCAU services, they implement a framework supporting seriously ill patients in Uganda. PCAU has developed a strategic plan with five focus areas:

  1. Capacity building 
  2. Advocacy and awareness creation
  3. Palliative care research and information
  4. Governance and support functions 
  5. Sustainability and financial efficiency

Those affiliated with PCAU work hard to implement these strategies. Indeed, outcomes are being achieved with the support of the Ugandan Ministry of Health, ensuring 55,000 people in Uganda receive palliative care.

Hospice Africa

Another key provider of palliative care in Uganda is Hospice Africa. Founded in the U.K. in 1992, the charity trains health care staff. It provides palliative care across Africa, with a significant focus on Uganda. Its clinical headquarters is in Kampala, where programs are implemented, patients are treated and morphine is manufactured.

Uganda serves as the base for Hospice Africa, which provides much of its medical attention there. Notably, 95% of Ugandan cancer patients do not seek curative treatment, highlighting the demand for holistic care. In 2023, three Hospice Africa Uganda sites cared for 2,110 individuals needing medical attention. Among these new patients, 66% were diagnosed with cancer and 7% were younger than the age of 18.

Hospice Africa Uganda’s reach is growing. The financial year 2022/2023 saw a 12% increase in patients as the charity expanded and received more funding to help care for seriously ill people.

What the Future Holds

Uganda is an African nation leading by example in providing palliative care to its citizens. Furthermore, the country is inspiring the rest of the continent to follow suit. However, there is still much work to be done. In October 2024, the Ugandan Ministry of Health reported that only 11% of the 500,000 Ugandans needing palliative care were receiving it. While more progress is needed in Uganda, the country is setting a positive example with its strategic frameworks to assist those needing end-of-life support.

By 2050, the Ugandan population is expected to exceed 100 million, making it encouraging to see effective frameworks for providing holistic care already in place. The increasing availability of palliative care in Uganda is poised to enhance the quality of life for the country’s growing population.

– Megan Hall

Megan is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Medical Reforms in Chile

Medical Reforms in ChileThe University of Chile, in 1842, began Chile’s strong devotion to medical education. Later, in the ’40s and ’50s, grants from the Rockafeller and Kellogg Foundations aided in academic programs for those learning about public health. Indeed, these investments led to the expansion of the School of Public Health at the University in 1958 to support incoming health care workers. In 1970, under President Allende, several medical reforms were enacted in Chile.

Reforms included a focus on rural and ambulatory services and increased community involvement in health care by the government. Furthermore, importance was placed on opening nationwide health centers, moving resources that the hospital sectors once controlled into the community and expanding the milk distribution program. This six-year health plan was a response to some of the previous health plan’s shortcomings, most notably the lack of comprehensive and complete health care coverage and lack of focus on primary care.

With the military coup in 1973, Allende’s “The National Health Service” was replaced by the “National System of Health Services” under the new leadership. Medical care could no longer be provided for free and competition within medical practice became the norm. The Secretary-General said at the time, “We want to incorporate into the health system certain aspects of the market economy…competition will allow the physician who provides the best care to gain a larger clientele.”

Problems With the Current System

Chile’s health care system is currently financed by two main entities: the Fondo Nacional de Salud (FONASA) and the Instituciones de Salud Previsional (ISAPRE). Approximately 80% of the population is covered by FONASA. The remaining 20% relies on ISAPRE, which includes additional charges based on risk assessments. This structure often leaves many elderly and chronically ill individuals unable to afford the necessary services.

Due to insufficient resources, many of those under the FONASA cannot take advantage of hospital services. Indeed this has led many to not be enrolled with a public health care facility, which has caused an increase in emergency care department visits. The current system faces several additional challenges, including:

  1. Outdated per capita calculation methodology
  2. Limited capacity to adjust capitations based on the epidemiological realities in different regions of the country
  3. Lack of accountability mechanisms

Program for Universal Primary Health Care

In December of 2023, the World Bank approved a loan of $200 million to aid Chile’s current efforts to reform its health care system. By 2027, it hopes to reach approximately 187 out of 346 municipalities with an emphasis on primary care. The program will have three main areas of focus:

  1. Free primary care services, regardless of insurance status.
  2. Prevention and preparation for the impacts of climate change and public health emergencies.
  3. Improvement of health care resources, including developing a virtual health system and enhancing the efficiency of existing systems.

All three focus areas aim to target the population not covered by FONASA. Those with coverage who are not currently in a Public Health Care (PHC) system. The goal is to reduce the number of patients seeking care directly in emergency services. Other medical reforms in Chile seek to further these objectives by expanding effective coverage in PHC. Additional reforms seek to establish a more resilient system, improving the model for both social and health care and optimizing resources for monitoring and evaluating the health care system.

Final Note

With these new implementations, the health care system in Chile aims to grow stronger. Furthermore, care could become more accessible and reliable for its citizens. Chile aims to build on the foundations established by the health care systems of the past and learn from past mistakes and shortcomings.

– Isabella Chavez

Isabella is based in Swampscott, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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LIF: UK-Mexico Relations and Medical Innovation

LIFMexico’s economy is on the rise after a 3.2% growth in 2023 and boasts the second-largest economy in Latin America. The shock of COVID-19 failed to stunt the country’s ongoing efforts to reduce poverty since rates continued to fall from 43.9% in 2020 to 36.3% in 2022. Although Mexico is exceeding in development, clear income divides remain between rural and urban areas, which is evident in its health care system. The Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF), a U.K. program, worked with Mexican innovators to help provide solutions to health care disparities.

What Is the LIF program?

The Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng) began the LIF program more than 10 years ago to promote global entrepreneurship through the use of technological innovation. Alongside Mexico, the program has partners in 16 countries, including Brazil, Vietnam, and Romania. The LIF was launched thanks to funding from the Newton Fund, which is part of the U.K.’s official development assistance and fosters international science and innovation partnerships.

Health Care in Mexico

The Mexican health care system operates on a combination of public, private, and employer-funded schemes. Prior to the introduction of Seguro Popular in 2004, a government program that ensured universal access to health care, three-quarters of the population could not access health care through the Ministry of Health. However, high poverty rates in rural areas of Mexico often leave these populations without adequate access to health care. Services are typically concentrated in the country’s largest cities.

In fact, 88% of dentists in Mexico are located in urban centers. Despite multiple reforms, health care infrastructure in rural municipalities remains insufficient, forcing locals to rely on out-of-pocket expenses. These areas also represent two-thirds of Mexico’s extremely poor. The removal of Seguro Popular in 2020 further increased out-of-pocket health care costs, which indicates the need for further health care security and reform to aid the most inadequate.

The LIF Program in Mexico

In February 2024, LIF joined efforts with technological innovators in Mexico to help the Xicotepec, one of the municipalities that make up the Puebla state. The program funded the use of these medical inventions and services in the communities of Xicotepec. The team operating there organized a Community Health Services (CHS) Week, where 265 people received medical care.

The program covered a variety of training and medical care. Indeed, 90 mothers attended breast cancer screenings, 40 doctors were trained in wound healing, and more than 200 people were trained in disease prevention. The program was well received by its beneficiaries: “The service was very good and necessary. The truth is that we don’t go to the doctor often because we can’t afford it.”

Final Note

Positive partnerships like the LIF program enable medical innovation and treatment to reach the communities that need it most. They can help resolve the negative effects of recent changes in Mexico’s health care system. The capacity of the RAEng to reach remote communities like Xicotepec shows how far-reaching international collaboration is.

– Sofia Brooke

Sofia is based in Oxfordshire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Sex Trafficking and Child Poverty in Belarus  

Sex Trafficking in BelarusBelarus is a country in Eastern Europe which only recently gained its independence in August 1991 after a long history of the Soviet Union. The country, occupied by the Russian Empire since the 18th century, fell into Nazi hands years after the Russian Revolution, and following World War II, the country returned to Soviet Union’s control in 1944. In 1994, three years after declaring independence, Aleksandr Lukashenko became president and has been in office since his initial election.

Vulnerable Communities

In 2017, the rate of child poverty in Belarus stood at 11.3% while the population as a whole stood at 5.9%. The most vulnerable communities and families have been and still are those that live in more rural areas of the country, single-parent homes and homes with three or more children.

The multidimensional child poverty (MDCP) is higher than the overall poverty rate in the country. It is 16.7%, but the number varies across individuals. For larger households with three or more children and families in rural areas, the rate stands at 29.5% and for single-parent households, the rate is 23.8%, UNICEF reports.

UNICEF defines MDCP as “the situation of children suffering from multiple deprivations, rather than just income deprivation. Children may lack necessities or basic rights such as access to water and sanitation, a healthy, diverse diet, adequate living space or access to a personal computer to aid learning.”

Child Sex Trafficking in Belarus

Due to child poverty in Belarus, these underprivileged groups are especially vulnerable to trafficking, one of the major issues in the country. According to Interpol, Belarus has been identified as the country in Eastern Europe with the single most individuals identified in child abuse material. In 2013, there were a total of 91 victims in explicit abuse photographs and videos from Belarus.

The number of cases only increased. In 2015, there were a total of 506 separate cases of “commercial exploitation of children,” according to ECPAT. The traffickers often take victims abroad to countries like Russia, Poland and Turkey where their exploitation continues. The number of victims each year has fluctuated, but has remained consistently high, with the government identifying 251 victims in 2019.

The Good News

Although sex trafficking and child poverty in Belarus remain prominent, there is international support from NGOs and international aid groups to provide resources to victims and low-income households, according to the U.S. Department of State.

The number of victims of child trafficking has slowly increased since 2020; although, the government of Belarus has made small steps in providing resources for these vulnerable individuals. The government provides housing for up to six months in centers for children between the ages of three to 18 as well as free legal assistance, the U.S. Department of State reports. In July 2019, Belarusian and Israeli officials worked together to coordinate an operation to take down a sex trafficking ring composed of Belarusian and Ukrainian women, leading to the arrest of 15 people.

To address child poverty, the country has begun to provide aid to low-income families and families with underage children. There are also one-time benefits provided to families experiencing hardships and children up until 2 years old are provided with food supplies, regardless of income. Belarus is making efforts to address the issues of child poverty and human trafficking. No matter how slow, there are still efforts being made.

– Maya Renfro

Maya is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Georgia

Renewable Energy in GeorgiaGeorgia is a country rich in history, situated at the eastern end of the Black Sea in Eastern Europe. Once home to the ancient kingdom of Iberia, Georgia is now charting its course with one of Europe’s most significant and rapidly growing renewable energy sectors. The Georgian people aim not only to promote renewable energy but also to use it to alleviate poverty.

Pushing Toward a Green Future

This push toward a green future goes hand in hand with the country’s economic policy. Specifically, Georgia has always maintained the goal of creating a liberalized economic environment for its people. This economy would be governed through minimal state interference, reduced taxation and free trade. These principles have already been put into place. For example, Georgia achieved an average annual economic growth of 3.6% between 2017 and 2021. The country achieved this by stimulating capital and investments through a system of structural reforms. Its renewable energy sector is one such reformation that has expanded into an industry of its own.

Georgia has been involved in the energy sector since the mid-’90s and its efforts have steadily progressed, yielding significant results. Approximately 70% of the country’s electricity comes from hydropower, with the remainder generated from coal and natural gas. This positions Georgia for potential energy independence from its neighbors, opening the door to becoming an electricity exporter to other European nations. For context, the country’s total energy consumption was 4.49 million tons of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in 2020, presenting a lucrative opportunity for sustainable economic growth.

In addition, the country’s energy sector is on pace for rapid growth. The state electricity producer Georgian State Electrosystem (GSE) currently produces 4,600 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which is expected to reach 10,000 megawatts by 2033. Furthermore, new hydropower plants are being proposed to aid this development. Even more, there are plans to construct photovoltaics and wind farms in the country. The fruition of these projects would have significant implications for the country’s renewable energy output.

Potential Economic Impact

The jobs created by this initiative could spark a significant economic boom for the nation. Citizens could engage in meaningful work within an industry, revitalizing their country and promoting a healthier environment. This potential is reflected in economic forecasts, which project Georgia’s gross domestic product (GDP) to rise to 5.5% by 2025, a 0.5% increase from the previous year.

Looking Ahead

There is still much work ahead and progress continues to be made. Georgia’s legislators are focused on realizing their vision of a green future by integrating and strengthening the economic and environmental sectors. Increasing these areas would foster sustainability and financial security for the nation and its citizens. In conclusion, renewable energy has brought much-needed attention to Georgia, establishing it as a significant player on the global stage in the pursuit of a brighter future.

– Drew Ellison

Drew is based in Laurel, DE, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Women’s Rights in Rwanda

Women's Rights in RwandaRwanda, a small country in East Africa, has emerged as a beacon of hope in the realm of women’s rights. Following the devastating genocide in 1994, Rwanda has made significant strides in empowering women and fostering gender equality. However, challenges remain that need to be addressed.

The Gender Parity

In a landmark move, Rwanda implemented the Gender Parity Law, which mandates that women occupy at least 30% of decision-making positions in government and other institutions. As a result, Rwanda has one of the highest representations of women in parliament globally, with women holding 63.7% of seats in the Chamber of Deputies. This progressive legislation not only promotes gender equality but also enables women to contribute meaningfully to national development and policy-making.

Access to Education

Education plays a pivotal role in empowering women and Rwanda has made substantial progress in this area. The government has prioritized girls’ education through various programs, such as the Girl’s Education Program, which aims to ensure that girls complete their secondary education. As a result, the literacy rate for young women in Rwanda has increased dramatically, reaching 77% in 2022, from 69% in 2018. However, while these initiatives are commendable, ongoing efforts are needed to eliminate barriers that prevent girls from accessing education, particularly in rural areas.

Addressing Gender-Based Violence

Despite the progress made, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a significant challenge in Rwanda. The government has recognized this issue and is actively working to combat it through the National Gender-Based Violence Policy, which aims to prevent violence and provide support to survivors. Community-based programs have also been established to raise awareness about GBV and promote respectful relationships. In 2023, the Rwanda National Police reported a decrease in GBV cases, attributed to heightened awareness and increased reporting mechanisms.

The Role of NGOs

NGOs play a vital role in advocating for women’s rights and supporting government initiatives. Organizations like Women for Women International provide training and support to marginalized women, helping them to reintegrate into society and gain financial independence. The organization has reached more than 10,000 women in Rwanda, equipping them with skills and resources to overcome poverty and violence.

The Path Forward

While Rwanda has made remarkable progress in advancing women’s rights, continuous effort is required to sustain and build on these gains. Ensuring that women are not only represented in decision-making processes but are also active participants in their communities is crucial. The government’s commitment to gender equality, coupled with the support of NGOs, will play a pivotal role in creating an environment where women can thrive.

Ultimately, the advancements in women’s rights in Rwanda are commendable, showcasing a commitment to gender equality and empowerment. While challenges persist, the foundation has been laid for a brighter future for women in Rwanda. It is both reassuring and encouraging to see a nation recognizing the importance of women’s rights as fundamental to national development and progress.

– Jonny Wilkinson

Jonny is based in Paris, France and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Poverty in the Marshall Islands

Child poverty in the Marshall IslandsThe Marshall Islands are roughly between Hawaii and Australia in the Pacific Ocean. Child poverty in the Marshall Islands has been an issue that usually is ignored by the global community. Most children living in these islands face significant challenges in achieving adequate development due to limited access to health care. Poor education, maternal health challenges and malnutrition (35%) are some of the most common factors when talking about child poverty in the region.

Maternal Health Challenges

Maternal health care challenges and child poverty are closely related in the Marshall Islands. Limited access to efficient maternal health services harms health outcomes for both mothers and children. Children who are born from mothers who do not receive proper prenatal and postnatal care are at a higher risk of experiencing health issues, stunting and developmental delays. As a consequence, they are not able to do regular activities as any other children.

The lack of education on proper contraception contributes to a higher likelihood of unintended pregnancies, resulting in various health and economic challenges. A study conducted by the University of Arkansas on women in the Marshallese community living in Arkansas found that many mothers fear the adverse effects of contraception, leading them to reject contraceptive methods.

Education

Poverty significantly restricts children’s access to education in the Marshall Islands, particularly in rural areas where schools are often far from their homes. Limited learning materials, inadequate school infrastructure and a shortage of qualified teachers contribute to the low quality of education. As a result, many children discontinue their schooling to work and support their families, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is another significant consequence of poverty affecting children in the Marshall Islands. According to a 2017 joint study by the Marshall Islands government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), highlighted by the World Bank Group in 2020, 35% of Marshallese children younger than 5 suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition. This statistic is particularly alarming, even compared to other Pacific Island nations facing challenges related to poor nutrition and the high costs of imported goods.

What Is Being Done?

The government of the Marshall Islands, in collaboration with UNICEF, is implementing programs to improve health care and combat malnutrition. Efforts are focused on enhancing access to education and health care services. Mobile clinics and educational initiatives are being introduced to ensure that most children on the islands can benefit from these programs.

Additionally, the Early Childhood Development Project, launched by the World Bank in April 2019, directly addresses these issues. This $13 million initiative is funded by the International Development Association (IDA) in collaboration with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Government and UNICEF. The programs aim to improve health and nutrition, enhance early education and support families in creating a nurturing environment for their children. Additionally, evaluations and monitoring will be implemented to ensure the success and impact of the projects.

Conclusion

Addressing child poverty in the Marshall Islands requires a multifaceted approach involving local and international collaboration. Significant strides are being made to improve the living conditions and the future of children in the region. Indeed, initiatives like the Early Childhood Development Project and various programs improving nutrition, health care and education are making significant steps forward. Continued support and innovative solutions will be essential in ensuring that every child in the Marshall Islands has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr