Archive for category: Development

Information and stories on development news.

, ,

Economic Opportunity in Morocco: A Look Into the Textile Sector

Economic Opportunity in Morocco: A Look Into the Textile Sector While Morocco’s youth unemployment rate remains high at around 23%, the country is using its thriving textile sector to lower unemployment rates, boost the economy and expand economic opportunity in Morocco.

Morocco’s Textile Sector

Morocco’s textile sector provides more than 200,000 jobs, accounting for 27% of industrial employment, and contributes 7% of the country’s industrial value. The country is taking the opportunity to create jobs through textile training programs that connect participants directly to an established industry, further supporting economic opportunity in Morocco.

Backed by organizations such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and Alwaleed Philanthropies, these programs and initiatives provide participants with skills in not only garment production but also small business development. The Alwaleed Philanthropies initiative has reached more than 6,300 people, with approximately 5,000 people benefiting in 2024 alone.

Strengthening Competitiveness

Morocco’s textile development efforts extend beyond a single initiative. Programs supported by the International Trade Centre (ITC) focus on improving competitiveness in the textile and clothing sector by helping small and medium-sized enterprises strengthen production, increase exports and integrate into global value chains. These efforts complement training initiatives by ensuring that newly skilled workers are entering a sector with growing demand and stronger international market access.

At the national level, Morocco has invested in industry-focused initiatives such as the Industrial Acceleration Plan, which emphasizes workforce training, investment and sector growth to support long-term job creation.

Training and Cultural Preservation

By combining textile production skills with workforce training, these programs create a direct pathway for Moroccans to go from learning to earning. The programs also provide specialized training to more than 500 artisans, focusing on areas such as fashion design, model development and creative production.

This program also prioritizes creativity and recognizes the importance of cultural preservation. It helps participants modernize traditional Moroccan textiles so that the sector remains competitive while preserving tradition. Traditional Moroccan textile practices such as the kaftan, are recognized by UNESCO as part of the country’s cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of preserving these techniques while adapting them for modern use.

This combination of preservation and modernization allows participants to maintain cultural identity while also accessing opportunities in tourism, where handcrafted textiles are often sold in local markets and cultural centers, as well as in broader fashion and export markets that value traditional craftsmanship. The textile and clothing sector’s strong export base further supports these opportunities by connecting locally produced goods to international buyers and global supply chains, contributing to economic opportunity in Morocco across both local and global markets.

Looking Ahead

Rather than creating entirely new industries, this approach focuses on strengthening what already exists, making job creation more immediate and reinforcing economic opportunity in Morocco. With youth unemployment remaining a challenge, programs that connect training directly to employment opportunities can help address the economic conditions that contribute to poverty. By equipping individuals with both technical and entrepreneurial skills, Morocco’s textile initiatives expand access to income and create more stable economic pathways.

– Kale Overton

Kale is based in Ames, IA, USA and focuses on Good News, Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Digital Poverty in Papua New Guinea

Digital Poverty in Papua New GuineaDigital poverty in Papua New Guinea (PNG) highlights a stark reality in the Pacific, where a challenging geography of remote islands and vast landmasses amplifies connectivity gaps. In this region, many communities remain cut off from the online world, limiting education, economic opportunities and essential services. PNG, due to its diverse terrain and growing population, exemplifies these struggles.

Despite technological advances, the country grapples with low internet adoption, underscoring how geography and economics perpetuate exclusion. Addressing digital poverty in PNG demands urgent, tailored strategies to unlock its potential.

Who Has Internet and Who Doesn’t?

Internet access first reached PNG in 1997. Yet after three decades, the nation trails far behind other Asia-Pacific neighbors in connectivity. At first, rates align closely with smartphone access and about 60% of adults report having used the internet at least once. Still, only 36% of people have a mobile connection. In comparison, true internet penetration is limited to 32%, equating to 3.3 million users.

PNG’s immense land area, mountainous terrain, limited road network and consequent high service costs create formidable obstacles. Rural regions, where 86% of the population resides, suffer the most, often lacking both power grids and networks. On the other hand, according to a 2020 World Bank analysis, cities like Port Moresby and Lae host just a fraction of the population, even though they account for 70% of all internet users.

Smartphone access tells a similar story: 62% of adults can use one, whether their own or shared. But disparities run deep across groups. Rural dwellers, seniors and lower-income households lag well behind national averages in device ownership. Internet habits mirror this, with added gender differences: only 32% of women aged 45–74 and 48% of rural women have gone online, compared with 50% of men in that age group and 54% of rural men.

The Government’s Path to Digitalization

In recent years, PNG’s government has pursued ambitious reforms to expand internet access. Key initiatives form a forward-looking regulatory backbone:

  • The Digital Transformation Policy 2020 outlines a roadmap for embedding tech into public services, boosting efficiency, reach and openness.
  • The Digital Government Act 2022 establishes rules for secure digital operations, prioritizing data privacy, system interoperability and cross-agency collaboration.
  • The National Cybersecurity Policy protects online infrastructure, equipping businesses and officials to counter threats and build user confidence.
  • The Digital ID Framework rolls out a reliable identity platform to streamline services, cut scams and ease transactions.
  • The Digital Transformation Summit 2025, a four-day event focused on Sevis, a government-led platform conceived to facilitate the use of public services.

Despite these steps, the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) landscape remains constrained. State-owned enterprises dominate the market with little rivalry, controlling everything from infrastructure to delivery. This environment scares off private players and stalls innovations in speed and affordability. 

The World Bank highlights how this monopoly enables tactics that block competitors, creating a “vertical squeeze.” Such dominance jeopardizes PNG’s target of connecting 70% of its citizens to electricity by 2030, which could increase internet access, as outlined in the PNG Development Strategic Plan 2010–2030. Without broader competition, digital poverty in Papua New Guinea persists, undermining national goals.

Public-Private Partnerships and Open-Source Innovations

Tackling these issues requires collaborative, cost-effective approaches. A Lowy Institute analysis suggests public-private partnerships (PPPs) in telecommunications, backed by robust competition rules and pricing oversight, could be a solution. These alliances could dismantle monopolies, drive down costs and extend coverage to remote areas, much like successful models in neighboring nations, such as Vanuatu.

PPPs are not the only tool, though. Open-source software (OSS) offers powerful and inclusive means. By providing free access to essential software, OSS democratizes digital tools across education, commerce and administration.

Mainstream OSS options include the Firefox browser for secure web surfing, Linux for flexible operating systems and LibreOffice for productivity. This software is openly licensed, allowing users to download, modify and deploy it without fees. In contrast, proprietary rivals like Microsoft Office charge subscription fees that can consume nearly 100 hours of minimum-wage earnings annually.

In PNG’s context, when backed by the development of a solid digital infrastructure, OSS can slash barriers for schools in highland villages and entrepreneurs in coastal regions, fostering self-reliance. Success depends on political will, training programs and affordable devices. By prioritizing equity, PNG can transform digital poverty into digital prosperity, fueling sustainable growth. 

The PNG government is making great efforts to address these issues and bring the country closer to regional standards. However, this work will require greater flexibility and collaboration with third parties.

– Riccardo Chiaraluce

Riccardo is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Resilience in Haiti with FADEKA

fadeka haitiIt has been almost five years since a catastrophic earthquake hit Haiti, leaving behind a tremendous amount of damage. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake killed 2,247 people, injured more than 12,700, and destroyed more than 53,000 homes. 1,060 schools were damaged, compromising the education of thousands of children. This event helped start an initiative to enhance the economic status and community standing of women and their resilience in Haiti.

After this event, an initiative to enhance the economic status and community standing of women was formed for women as a resilience in Haiti.

FADEKA Project

The original initiative, Fanm nan Agrikilti se Devlopman Ekonomi Ayiti (FADEKA), meaning Economic Empowerment of Women in the South Department of Haiti, was active from 2018 to 2021. U.N. Women developed the project in partnership with the Government of Norway, releasing a final report in December 2022. Despite the success of the project, Haitian agriculture and women are still struggling with ongoing insecurity and poor infrastructure, and need another FADEKA Project.

For supporters of this topic to want to push for a second initiative, they need to hear about the success of the first one. An independent firm dissected the FADEKA Project in Haiti and the resiliencies made throughout the program, expressing the positives of the project, and providing a guide for a second one.

Success of FADEKA

During the FADEKA Project in Haiti, focus was solely on improving the livelihoods of female farmers through agriculture, fishing, and small-scale processing through catalytic investments and capacity-building for female producer organizations, according to the December 2022 report.

The female agricultural workforce makes up 44.2%, with only a third of Haitian farms managed by women. Agriculture is the primary source of employment in Haiti, with 40% of households involved in activities and around 75% of rural households engaged in a form of agriculture, such as fishing or beekeeping.

Training farmers on extreme weather patterns was also a part of the FADEKA project. A total of 8.7% beneficiaries surveyed said that they had taken training on weather challenges and 7.3% on nursery management within the context of the project. According to the discussion group participants, this training built their technical capacity on weather patterns and resilience.

Improving the Atmosphere Between Men and Women

The report found that 100% of women, when asked about their participation in household expenditure, contributed to it. Along with 65.3% said that household management income is managed equally between men and women, according to the December 2022 report. Overall, women’s voices in their households were strengthened, they had higher participation, more leadership in decision making, and strengthened farmers’ and agricultural entrepreneurs’ preparedness for shocks of weather patterns.

Out of 34 planned activities, the program implemented 26 (76%). The failure of the eight projects could be due to the instability of Haiti’s government. If a second project goes through, the evaluation gave ideas on how to make it more successful.

According to the evaluation report, if a second phase gets the approval, “the focus should be on consolidating the project’s achievements and on capacity-building for local authorities and the beneficiary communities.”

The need for that second project has grown more and more over the past years, with the rise of gang violence, displacement, food insecurity, and the collapse of livelihoods.

Need for a Second Project

Ever since the end of the first project, Haiti has fallen into critical conditions with mass displacement of people, widespread, acute food insecurity and the domination of gang control of Port-au-Prince. Numerous cases of kidnappings, murders, rapes, gang confrontations and other acts of violence against individuals have contributed to a sense of general insecurity in the country.

In order to improve the socio-economic situation and government of Haiti, there are many different approaches, including strengthening local governance to restore resilience and fostering economic independence through agricultural investment.

The Future

With a successful first project, the U.N. Women, along with leaders in Norway, can make the second project more effective.

The FADEKA Project in Haiti is highly relevant but requires an additional period to strengthen its exit strategy. Many beneficiaries found themselves left to their own devices. This argues in favour of a second phase of the project, which could be consolidating the project’s achievements and capacity-building for local authorities and beneficiary communities. These efforts would help many people, and not go in vain.

– Elizabeth Fryer

Elizabeth is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Solutions to Youth Unemployment in Greece

Youth Unemployment in GreeceEnsuring that the next generation can transition into the workforce is essential to a functioning society. Unfortunately, a troubling trend has emerged in some developed European countries, where young people are being left behind. This is especially evident in Greece.

The southern European nation has long faced this challenge amid a broader economic crisis. Although the government of Greece is considering measures to address youth unemployment, the country has already seen significant improvements in employment.

Youth Unemployment in Greece

“For over a decade, Greece has held one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the European Union.” In 2009, after nearly a decade of adopting the Euro as its national currency, Greece was hit hard by the global financial crisis. As a result, the government became unable to pay off its debts. 

That exacerbated long-running problems within the Greek economy and job market, leading to the highest rate of youth unemployment in Europe. Factors contributing to this high rate include a disconnect between the private sector’s actual needs and the education system. Greece produces a significant number of university graduates in the fields of humanities and social sciences, “while the market screams for specialized technical roles and digital expertise.” 

This imbalance in the labor market leaves highly educated young people without the technical expertise needed to meet the demands of the private sector. This leaves them overqualified for jobs in tourism and retail but underqualified for upper management positions. Limited vocational training can restrict young people’s access to sectors such as construction and engineering, while low levels of youth entrepreneurship contribute to fewer start-ups.

Regarding tourism, Greece is a popular vacation destination, with a large tourism industry that generates significant revenue. However, the tourism industry can be seen as a double-edged sword. Most work in tourism is seasonal, which presents a problem for long-term financial planning and career progression. 

Many young workers are caught in a cycle of short-term, six-month contracts. This limits their ability to plan for the future, including securing a mortgage or starting a family. Seasonal work also rarely provides the professional development needed to move into stable, high-paying corporate roles.

Improvements and Potential Solutions

As the problem has persisted, the Greek government and other parties have remained divided over the issue and have tried to implement policies to address the needs of Greece’s youth who have been left behind. Just this year, Greece introduced reforms to its tax code that lowered the overall tax rate by two percentage points. The reform also offers additional tax breaks to younger workers and families, with rates as low as 9% for families with three children and zero income tax for those with four or more children.

Reforms like this can provide some extra brevity for those looking to enter the job market, as well as making it more manageable for those who want to start a family in the future. Other taxes that are reduced include the property tax for villages with fewer than 1,500 residents and an overhaul of provisions for short-term renting. Another proposal, detailed by the European Student Think Tank, calls for “Setting up regional offices for counseling and networking, especially in rural regions with high youth unemployment, as part of an effort to enhance entrepreneurship skills, knowledge of the Greek market and social skills of youth.” 

From the proposals already passed, it is evident that there has been a substantial improvement in youth employment. According to Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, “Greece used to be at the bottom in Europe in unemployment of young people with 39.5% in 2019, but that rate has dropped to 13%.” That is a substantial improvement, yet there is still much work left to be done.

Final Remarks

Recent reforms to the tax code, property laws and economic policies have greatly improved the prospects of young Greeks. They now have the opportunity to begin a new chapter in their lives as professionals, rather than remain stagnant in a tourist economy that kept them from advancing. 

– Alexander K. Petrov

Alexander is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Addressing the Hidden Poverty of Urban Slums in India and Kenya

Urban Slums in India and Kenya

Urban slums are home to millions of people in cities like Mumbai and Nairobi, where residents endure extreme poverty, overcrowded housing, poor sanitation and limited access to basic services. These informal settlements are often overlooked in poverty reduction efforts, leaving slum dwellers without essential support. Despite being central to the urban landscape, slums face challenges such as inadequate health care, limited educational opportunities and heightened vulnerability to environmental risks like flooding and landslides due to climate instability.

The Hidden Struggles of Slum Dwellers

In Dharavi, Mumbai, one of the largest slums in the world, is marked by overcrowding, poor infrastructure and a lack of sanitation. Families live in cramped, poorly constructed homes with minimal access to clean water and essential services. With little access to quality health care or education, slum residents are caught in a cycle of poverty that is hard to break. 

Kibera, another well-known slum in Nairobi, suffers from similar challenges. Despite being home to a large portion of the city’s population, these slums have inadequate access to safe water, sanitation and infrastructure and poor structural quality of housing. These communities are also disproportionately affected by climate instability. 

Without adequate drainage systems, flooding and other climate-related disasters worsen their already precarious living conditions. Residents also face constant threats of forced evictions, often stemming from insecure land tenure and government urban development plans, with many fearing displacement despite living on the land for decades. This problem is rooted in unequal land ownership and political-economic factors that prevent low-income populations from accessing land and securing decent housing.

Successful Policies and Initiatives

Despite these challenges, several successful initiatives have improved living conditions in urban slums in India and Kenya, thereby addressing poverty.

In India, the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) program seeks to improve slum conditions by promoting inclusive and equitable cities where every citizen has access to basic civic infrastructure, social amenities and decent shelter. This initiative is part of India’s broader goal of creating a “Slum-Free India.” Similarly, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project in Mumbai aims to redevelop the Dharavi Notified Area by appointing developers. The project uses land as a resource to rehabilitate slum dwellers and permits an incentive Floor Space Index through tenements sold on the open market.

In Kenya, the Kenya Slum Upgrading Program (KENSUP) focuses on improving living conditions in informal settlements. KENSUP focuses on constructing housing and infrastructure, managing the environment and solid waste and addressing health challenges. One key success is the Kibera Slum Upgrading Initiative, implemented in collaboration with U.N.-HABITAT. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure through targeted interventions.

Local organizations in Kenya, such as Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), have also been instrumental in improving access to health care, education and women’s empowerment programs. They are demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can complement government efforts. 

The Way Forward

For sustainable change, slum upgrading must be integrated into broader urban development plans. Governments need to implement policies that create economic opportunities, promote job growth and expand access to education for slum residents. Securing land tenure, investing in affordable housing and expanding public services such as health care and sanitation will provide a stronger foundation for residents to escape poverty.

Moreover, integrating slum improvement into urban planning requires addressing the socioeconomic needs of slum dwellers, including access to employment, education and basic services. It also requires tackling environmental challenges such as flooding and climate resilience. Governments should promote inclusivity by ensuring that slum residents have a voice in the planning process and that their specific needs are addressed. 

Building stronger partnerships among local governments, international organizations and community groups can help advance this vision.

Conclusion

Urban slums are home to millions of people living in extreme poverty. However, with targeted initiatives and community-driven solutions, significant progress is possible. Successful programs in India and Kenya show that improving living conditions in slums is achievable. 

By addressing both the physical and socioeconomic challenges of slums, stakeholders can begin to break the cycle of poverty in urban communities in India and Kenya and build more resilient and inclusive cities.

– Chris Tang

Chris is based in Beijing, China and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

, ,

Poverty in Micronesia: Infrastructure Gaps and Inequity

Poverty in MicronesiaPoverty in Micronesia is shaped by more than just low incomes. Weak infrastructure, such as limited transportation, water systems, electricity, health care and internet access, isolates many island communities. As a result, everyday costs are higher, job opportunities are limited and vulnerable populations face greater risks from changing climatic conditions. 

Infrastructure Gaps and Poverty in Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) faces significant challenges that contribute to poverty and economic inequality across its island communities. This isolated country consists of more than 600 islands, many of which are remote and difficult to connect to through transportation and communication systems. Geographic isolation and underdeveloped infrastructure are considered major barriers to long-term economic growth and private sector development in Micronesia.

These limitations also increase the cost of transporting goods between islands, raising living costs for residents and slowing economic development, which further contributes to poverty in Micronesia. As a result, improving infrastructure has become a key strategy for reducing poverty and strengthening economic opportunities in the country. 

Transportation and Connectivity Challenges

Micronesia also faces significant transportation and connectivity challenges due to its geography as a nation of widely dispersed islands across the Pacific Ocean. Limited shipping routes, small ports and infrequent air services make it difficult to move goods and people efficiently between islands. These transportation barriers increase the cost of importing food, fuel and other essential goods, contributing to higher living costs for many residents.

In addition, limited telecommunications and internet infrastructure restrict access to education, business opportunities and digital services, particularly in remote outer islands. Geographic isolation also contributes to economic disparities between the FSM and other Pacific island economies and high transportation costs further reinforce poverty in Micronesia by increasing the price of essential goods.

According to the Asian Development Bank, economic growth in Micronesia is projected to remain relatively low at around 1.1% in 2026. This is significantly lower than tourism-driven economies like the Cook Islands and Palau, which are expected to grow by 2.5% and 3.9% in 2026, respectively. These differences highlight the economic challenges faced by geographically isolated island states with limited infrastructure and smaller private sectors.

National and International Initiatives

The government of the FSM has implemented several national initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and reducing economic inequality between islands. The Infrastructure Development Plan (IDP) is designed to guide investments in sectors such as electricity, water systems, roads, maritime transport, air transportation and telecommunications to support national development. The plan prioritizes projects that strengthen connectivity, improve public services and support economic growth across the country’s four states.

In addition, the Micronesia National Energy Policy provides a strategic framework for expanding reliable and affordable energy access, while promoting renewable energy development and improved energy infrastructure. This policy helps to expand electricity access and modernize energy systems, making it a key step in improving living standards and economic opportunities for communities across Micronesia.

Beyond national efforts, development organizations such as the Asian Development Bank and the World Bank fund projects aimed at improving transportation networks, water and sanitation systems and energy infrastructure across the FSM. These initiatives support infrastructure expansion and improved connectivity between islands, helping strengthen economic opportunities and access to essential services. In addition, the U.S. provides significant financial assistance through the Compact of Free Association, first established in 1986 and renewed in 2024 for another 20 years.

The updated agreements provide approximately $3.3 billion in economic assistance to the FSM through 2043, supporting public services, infrastructure development and economic stability across the country. 

Final Thoughts

Reducing poverty in Micronesia requires addressing the infrastructure and connectivity challenges that isolate many island communities. Strengthening transportation, energy systems and digital access can help expand economic opportunities and improve access to essential services. Continued collaboration between the Micronesian government and international partners such as the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank and the U.S. will be essential to supporting long-term development and reducing inequality across the country.

– Yuhan Rong

Yuhan is based in San Diego, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Angola’s National Development Plan

Angola's National Development PlanAngola is a large country located in southern Africa, currently bordered by Namibia, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Like many other newly founded countries, Angola had to fight to gain its independence from Portugal in 1975. The challenges that come with managing a recently established country, such as recovering from the aftermath of war and the side effects of malnutrition, would cause its community to struggle. 

Thankfully, Angola would be able to overcome its many hurdles because its land is a natural hotspot for vital resources, including gems, metals, petroleum and, most importantly, oil. Ranked among the highest oil producers in Africa, Angola has quickly become reliant on oil as a means of survival. While crucial at the time for residents to thrive in harsh conditions, this has eventually led to the depletion of the resource and, if not monitored, will decline to the point where no one can use it.

Structural Reforms in Angola

As of 2026, Angolan leaders are implementing measures that, if successful, will diversify the country’s economy and reduce Angola’s overreliance on oil, which accounts for more than 95% of its exports. These structural reforms also serve to improve upper management and create more jobs for citizens in Angola who are struggling to find work. The idea of reform in Angola also faces challenges related to debt burdens, owing money to countries such as its largest oil importer, China, which makes it difficult to earn and maintain a sustainable income. 

Angola’s national debt has also increased sharply due to its heavy reliance on oil, as fluctuations in oil prices shape the country’s economic performance. In general, oil is a finite, nonrenewable resource. If overexploited, it can lead to the depletion of resources such as heat, fuel and electricity, all of which are valuable and can actively harm or put Angolan residents at risk.

The National Development Plan

Angola’s National Development Plan is currently being implemented. Enacted in 2023, this plan, once fully implemented, aims to expand the economy by more than 3.5% and urges workers to spend less time extracting oil and more time in other sectors, including agriculture, fisheries and health services. At the core of this strategy are reforms to enhance the business environment, support small and medium-sized enterprises and invest in infrastructure. 

These efforts also include the progressive privatization of state-owned enterprises in collaboration with international partners, such as the World Bank. The intended end goal of Angola’s National Development Plan is to achieve significant positive results by 2027. 

Lobito Corridor Transport Initiative

The Lobito Corridor transport initiative is another economic reform intended to help diversify Angola’s economy. The Lobito Corridor is a 1,300-kilometer major economic railway that runs through various ports in Angola and neighboring countries, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This railway not only connects the three bordering countries but also facilitates the easier transportation of the land’s valuable natural resources. 

The corridor can unlock the country’s economic potential, increase export opportunities and promote regional integration.

Final Remarks

Despite Angola’s occasional economic conflicts stemming from its overexploitation of oil and other nonrenewable resources, the country’s leaders have successfully addressed instances of resource depletion. Solutions such as the National Development Plan and the Lobito Corridor are being implemented, offering the possibility of positive change in the future. However, long-term improvement cannot be achieved overnight. 

– Will Mancuso

Will is based in Lake Mary, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

,

An Interview With Steve Collins of the African Safari Foundation

African Safari FoundationAs CEO of the African Safari Foundation (ASF) and an affiliate of the Transfrontier Conservation Areas scheme (TFCA), Steve Collins conducts redevelopment initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa. His work centers on rights advocacy and the establishment of sustainable economic frameworks for communities affected by civil unrest and those exploited through colonial mistreatment. Crucially, these socioeconomic and anti-apartheid concerns are synthesized with ecological ones, offering a practical foundation for sustainable economies in South Africa.

Rural Southern African economies are land-based; value is determined by the land itself and the concomitant rights it necessitates, such as hunting or agriculture. When land belonging to Indigenous tribes was taken, so too was their socioeconomic mobility.

Displacement and the Limits of TFCAs

Much of Collins’s work focuses on the South Africa–Mozambique border. This area traverses two national parks: the Kruger and the Limpopo. Around 3,000 people were displaced during the Kruger Park’s inception in 1913. In exile, they formed rural communities which, according to Professor Brian King, have “some of the highest rates of socioeconomic poverty in the country.” 

Global data resource Focus on Land in Africa (FOLA) adds that these areas suffer particularly from “high rates of infant mortality, malnutrition and illiteracy.” TFCAs were introduced to address these issues. However, the original proposal was inadequate. Indeed, the founding of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park saw a further 7,000 Mozambicans relocated. 

As such, Collins denounced these programs as “colonialism as conservation.” Indigenous tribes received “no compensation and no consultation.” This undermines the prospects for genuinely sustainable economies in South Africa and the wider region.

Community-Led Models for Sustainable Development

Collins has since reimagined how TFCAs operate and, through ASF, has successfully implemented long-term nature-based employment schemes that simultaneously serve conservation requirements. He refers to the Makuleke tribe. Expelled in 1969, ownership of their land was restored in 1998. 

Totaling more than 22,000 acres, it now holds 80% of Kruger National Park’s biodiversity. It houses two private five-star tourist lodges, which tribe members are employed to manage. Under the Makuleke Communal Property Association, members hold exclusive commercial rights over the land. Additionally, a proliferation of employment has resulted in 99% of the workforce being Makuleke members.

Many claimants received financial compensation through a scheme that distributed 84 million Rand (about $5 million) to dispossessed communities. However, Collins notes that poor subsequent regulation has resulted in little meaningful improvement. FOLA spokesperson M. Mercedes Stickler agrees, stating that “cash compensation… [detracts] from land reform’s ultimate goal of achieving racial equity in landholding.”

Still, Collins’s ambition extends further. He believes his model offers solutions for rural communities in countries such as Angola. There, development must comply with governmental restrictions demanding low-carbon growth, no intensive agriculture, no fracking and no pollution.

Final Remarks

Through the African Safari Foundation and reformed TFCAs, Collins and his team have established non-exclusionary, community-led and sustainable economic structures across Southern Africa. These initiatives have reinstated dispossessed populations as “agents and recipients of the land’s economic worth,” reinforcing pathways toward sustainable economies in South Africa.

– Jude Parsons

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

Photo: Flickr

, , , ,

Youth Development in Romania: Policies and Opportunities

Youth Development in RomaniaRomania’s young people face serious barriers in education and employment. Youth unemployment remains high compared to adult unemployment, and many young people do not complete secondary education. Since 2011, an estimated 450,000 children have dropped out of school before finishing middle school, and more than 15% of those ages 18 to 24 have not completed the eighth grade. These issues are more severe in rural areas and among ethnic minorities such as the Romani population.

Without adequate support, these trends can limit access to economic opportunities and civic engagement for young Romanians, slowing both personal development and the country’s long-term growth.

National Programs Supporting Youth

Romania is expanding national initiatives to support its young population. The National Youth Strategy (2024–2027) outlines goals to promote education, increase civic participation and reduce unemployment for people ages 15 to 35. This strategy helps guide policy, funding and program development across government agencies.

The Child Guarantee Action Plan seeks to ensure that all children, particularly those under 18, have access to quality education, health care and nutrition. The plan addresses poverty and social exclusion by focusing services on those most in need.

Programs such as School After School offer tutoring and extracurricular activities outside of regular hours to help students remain engaged and build skills in art, technology and sports. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen youth development in Romania by expanding access to educational and personal development opportunities.

International Support and Partnerships

Romania’s youth development efforts are supported by international initiatives. The U.N. Youth Delegate Program provides young leaders opportunities to represent Romania in U.N. discussions, amplifying youth voices on human rights, peace and sustainable development.

The Youth2030 Strategy encourages countries to include young people in national development plans and promote access to education, health care, employment and civic participation.

The Global Initiative for Decent Jobs for Youth promotes gender-equal employment and works with governments and the private sector to align training programs with labor market needs. These partnerships support Romania’s efforts to expand quality education and job opportunities for young people, particularly in underserved communities.

Proposed Solutions for the Future

To further advance youth development, Romania can expand training programs that teach communication, digital literacy and professional skills, helping young people become more competitive in the job market.

Improving access to quality education and employment opportunities in rural areas would help ensure that more young people benefit from national growth. Strengthening mentorship programs, community initiatives and career guidance services may help reduce school dropout rates and better prepare youth for civic and economic participation.

Prioritizing these approaches could contribute to a more inclusive and resilient workforce while addressing economic and social disparities.

Looking Ahead

Youth development in Romania remains both a social and economic priority. National strategies, community programs and international partnerships work together to address unemployment, reduce early school dropouts and increase youth participation. Continued investment in education, job skills and civic engagement can support long-term stability and inclusive growth. Strengthening youth development efforts may help Romania build a more stable and adaptable society prepared for future challenges.

– Anaisha Kundu

Anaisha is based in Skillman, New Jersey, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Kosovo’s Diaspora Fueling Economic Growth & Poverty Reduction

Kosovo's DiasporaA small state in the Balkans, Kosovo has a complex history and is a relatively new political entity. The nation was part of Yugoslavia as an autonomous province for decades. However, with the collapse of Yugoslavia in 1991, ethnic groups across the region declared independence, such as Slovenia and Croatia. 

Comprising a majority of ethnic Albanians, Kosovo declared its own independence on February 17, 2008. Today, Kosovo has defied economic expectations in many areas, largely due to its diaspora population across Europe and the world. About 800,000 Kosovars living abroad contribute a significant share of the country’s GDP through remittances.

Despite these economic successes, poverty remains a persistent problem. With poor educational performance, informal businesses, low salaries and high unemployment, Kosovo still has several institutional problems. While the rate of poverty has been declining over the past years, as of 2022, it still hovered around 25% or about one in four individuals. Along with several other factors, Kosovo’s far-reaching diaspora could help reduce these numbers.

Kosovo’s Diaspora Bonds

Over the past half-decade, Kosovo’s Ministry of Finance has issued bonds open to all nationals, particularly those living abroad. In 2021, for example, the government issued €20 million (about $23.6 million), with a guaranteed 100% return on investment and tax exemption. What this means, basically, is that the Central Bank of Kosovo offered to borrow about $23.6 million from Kosovar investors to fund infrastructure and government expenses. 

On the flip side, the Central Bank promises to repay its investors double the amount they invested. Nonetheless, by borrowing millions from its diaspora, Kosovo is better able to support important areas of the economy and education, thereby alleviating poverty and job insecurity.

How Local Governments Are Attracting Investment

After years of decentralization in Kosovo, attracting local investment to municipalities has become more difficult. Though these municipalities rely heavily on government grants, many are adapting their structures to support expatriate investors. The cities of Suhareka and Suva Reka, for example, have established a Directorate for Diaspora, which is dedicated to aiding Kosovo’s diaspora. 

This administration organizes relevant investment events and facilitates business registration and tax easements, to name only a few of the many services provided.

Real Estate Investment

Real estate makes up the largest share of diaspora investment in the Balkan country, accounting for about 70% of total investments from abroad. Investment in housing and apartments has sparked debate over the true economic impact. Some believe that investment in tourism and industrial development offers greater growth opportunities.

On the other hand, real estate investment increases employment opportunities, which in turn partially fuels the economy. With more jobs, more money circulates, benefiting everyone. Additionally, an IE University study found that a “rise of small investors increases the price-to-income ratio,” often leading to higher real estate prices. These higher prices, therefore, often indicate higher GDP per capita in the region.

In summary, it is unclear how much the Kosovan economy will benefit from these large real estate investments by Kosovo’s diaspora. Whatever the case, expatriate investors are pouring millions of dollars into the nation, ultimately growing the economy, even if by small increments.

How Is Poverty Affected?

The Kosovo diaspora offers potential economic benefits, including through government bonds, local municipal initiatives and independent real estate investment. This potential growth, however, could prompt shifts in the country’s poverty levels. Individuals are pushed above the poverty threshold as the economy grows and new jobs are created. 

While the influence of Kosovar foreign nationals is several steps removed from directly impacting poverty, their investment efforts spark a small chain reaction that eventually has the capacity to combat poverty.

– Ben Anderson

Ben is based in Madrid, Spain and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash