Archive for category: Development

Information and stories on development news.

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Comic Republic: A New Comic Book Landscape

Comic RepublicBatman, Wonder Woman and Spider-Man have inspired children and adults alike for decades, grossing billions of dollars in film, TV, video games and comic book sales. Often compared to modern-day myths, these heroes embody enduring values that have transcended centuries. Despite their textual and metatextual differences, these iconic characters all share one common denominator: their origins in the United States of America (USA).

The USA is considered the birthplace of modern comic books. Although many influential comics originate from other nations, Europe and America dominate the comic book and graphic novel landscape. However, some creators and publishers are striving to diversify this art form by incorporating African myths, sensibilities and art styles.

Comic Republic: Pioneering African Comics

Comic Republic, a Nigerian comic book publisher and multimedia company, has been creating characters that resonate globally for seven years. The company has produced dozens of characters featured in hundreds of stories and has collaborated with major corporations like BBC, Samsung and Wakanow to create characters and marketing materials. Committed to reshaping global perceptions of Africa through art and culture, Comic Republic offers all its books for free download on its website. Additionally, Comic Republic is collaborating with Emagine Content and JackieBoy Entertainment to produce a film based on their character Ireti. Announced in 2021, the project has not yet progressed, but future developments are still possible.

YouNeek: Building an African Comic Universe

YouNeek is a rising African comic studio dedicated to transforming African myths and culture into formats that appeal globally, such as comics and animation. Unlike other studios that create various worlds for their characters, YouNeek focuses on developing a shared universe of comic book superheroes, aiming for cross-medium expansion akin to Marvel Studios’ MCU. Roye Okupe, the owner and creative director of YouNeek, leads these efforts. Known for his ambition to build a multimedia empire, Roye has been making significant strides toward this goal. “Malika,” one of YouNeek’s projects, features a 15-minute animated pilot available on YouTube. In 2020, Roye secured a ten-book deal with Dark Horse Comics, a major player in the international independent comic book market and has been actively working on this commitment.

Looking Ahead

Comic Republic and YouNeek exemplify the indomitable spirit long associated with the comic book industry. Icons like Joe Shuster, Jerry Siegel, Bill Finger, Stan Lee, R. Crumb and Will Eisner have harnessed the power of comics to spark the imaginations of millions across all ages. Historically dominated by Western nations, the comic book industry is witnessing a transformative contribution from artists around the world, demonstrating that diverse nations and cultures have much to offer through the beloved artistic medium.

– Charlie McFadden

Charlie is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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5 Young Leaders making strides in combating global poverty

Young LeadersThe voices of young people have often been dismissed leaving many feeling powerless in the face of global challenges. Young people are frequently told they are too young to understand or affect meaningful change. Despite these barriers, youth activism is gaining momentum. Young people are driving change and their fresh perspectives have proven instrumental in driving progress on global issues, such as poverty. Youth activism is essential to amplify the voices of the marginalized and create long-lasting, transformative change. Here are five young leaders from around the world who are making significant strides towards combating global poverty.

Kelvin Doe – Sierra Leone

Kelvin Doe is an acclaimed young engineer from Sierra Leone. From the age of 10, Doe would scour trash and discarded materials to find parts to use for his innovative projects. He taught himself how to make items such as lights, generators and radios and even went on to create his radio station. He took on the stage name DJ Focus and used his radio station to share music and news about issues such as youth engagement. In addition, he is the founder of the Kelvin Doe Foundation, an NGO with the mission to “provide creative spaces, to nurture communities, ignite a culture of innovation, and inspire civic engagement.” Even with limited resources, Doe was able to utilize materials at his disposal and facilitate change in his community through his work.

Jose Adolfo Quisocala Condori – Peru

At just 7 years old, Jose Adolfo Quisocala Condori founded a bank that changed the trajectory of many kids in his community. Condori wanted to help eradicate poverty in his community while also protecting the environment, with this in mind he started a groundbreaking initiative called the Children’s Eco-Bank. The initiative incentivized students to recycle materials for monetary rewards that would be deposited into their bank accounts. The children’s Eco-Bank stands as a Beacon of Hope showcasing the remarkable impact that even the youngest individuals can have in fostering economic resilience and social change within their communities.

Webster Makombe – Zimbabwe

Webster Makombe is a global youth leader who focuses on improving nutrition and food security challenges. He began his activism career when he was working as a junior parliament member in high school. Through his activism, he dedicates time to lobbying and advocating for nutrition improvement in his home country of Zimbabwe and across the world. Makombe works closely with the movement Scaling up Nutrition, which works on furthering awareness and knowledge about food and nutrition issues. Now studying at the University of Zimbabwe, he focuses on human rights and global health law to deepen its understanding and drive meaningful change in the field

Kehkashan Basu – India/Canada

Kehkashan Basu is a “champion of women’s and children’s rights.” At the age of 12, she founded the Green Hope Foundation, an organization that works in 28 different countries to empower young people and women globally. The foundation aims to combine grassroots advocacy with policy reform to encourage education, development and sustainability for marginalized communities. Basu is a designated United Nations human rights champion and the youngest person to ever be designated as Global Coordinator for the U.N. Environment Program Major Group of Children and Youth. Through her unwavering support for global advocacy, Basu has shown what hard work and dedication can accomplish.

Jaden Lawen – Canada/Lebanon

Jaden Lawen was 17 years old when an explosion devastated his native city of Beirut, Lebanon. Thousands of miles away, in Ontario, Canada he found out about the drasticity of the situation through pictures and videos from friends who experienced the effects of the explosion, many of whom in hospitals. Moved to do something to help the catastrophe, he began the organization Halifax to Beirut with Love to spread awareness and raise funds. Through this Lawen was able to raise more than $100,000 which the Red Cross later distributed to the citizens. Lawen’s dedication to helping his community helped change thousands of lives, including those of his own family and friends.

Helping Shape Global Communities

Despite facing adversity, young leaders have proved time and time again that they can enact meaningful change throughout the world. Through initiatives that deal with economics, charity and advocacy these five young leaders are only some of many who are helping shape global communities. These young leaders enable the world to see what a future might look like if communities can mobilize their youth and inspire younger generations to make change.

– Adrita Quabili
Photo: Unsplash

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Solidarity Economy an Effective Remedy for Poverty

Solidarity Economy an Effective Remedy for PovertyIn efforts to fight poverty, local organizations are turning to a solidarity economy, which at its core, prioritizes social gain over profit. These organizations integrate concepts of human development, equal participation and sustainability. In some cases, such as with the Deccan Development Society in India, solidarity economic models have addressed structural deficiencies and inequalities by focusing on individual well-being and sustainable production. Fundamentally, a solidarity or social economy aims to balance social and economic goals and address poverty. Organizations within this model emphasize the social impact of their output instead of profit maximization.

Solidarity economies feature cooperative governance, democratic decision-making in economics, sustainable production methods and a commitment to human rights protection. Although solidarity economy primarily refers to a network of local cooperatives and fair trade companies operating under a strict ethical code, it also encompasses a broader economic model. Some organizations and governments have highlighted its potential for policy implementation. It is viewed as a response to 21st-century challenges and a means to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A Response to Globalization and Inequality

Solidarity economic organizations emerged as a counterpoint to the shortcomings of globalization. They challenge its status as the sole path to development. These grassroots organizations, mainly in developing countries, have criticized the exploitation of natural resources for profit and the structural flaws that push people into low-skill, low-wage jobs. In addition, they lament the loss of cultural identity and knowledge due to the homogenization of society. The solidarity economy aims to address poverty and the inequalities driving it, such as regional disparities and social exclusion, by offering an alternative model that seeks to restore balance.

The Impact of COVID-19

Solidarity economies gained prominence after the COVID-19 pandemic. With businesses closing, billions were left without income, dependent on state initiatives or their savings. Solidarity economic organizations worldwide stepped up, showcasing the impact of a model centered on social needs. As the immediate effects of the pandemic receded, the long-term impact on global poverty emerged clearly. The pandemic also exacerbated inequalities; between 2019 and 2021, the income of the wealthiest quintile dropped by 0.9%, while that of the poorest quintile fell by 3%.

A Focus on India

India’s rapidly expanding economy contributed to a decrease in multidimensional poverty from 29% to 11% over nine years. While this appears as a significant achievement on paper, contrasting views question the authenticity of this impressive trajectory as the statistics suggest. Critics specifically target the methodology for calculating multidimensional poverty. They argue that the categories constituting the multidimensional aspect and the revenue baselines might have political motivations.

In India, high levels of inequality persist across the population. The wealthiest 10% control 80% of the country’s wealth. Structural inequalities continue, with rural areas nearly twice as likely to experience poverty as urban areas. Despite the official illegality of discrimination based on the caste system, it remains a significant factor in income distribution, along with the tribal system. The Dalit caste and Adivasis tribe, historically regarded as untouchables, live in marginalized rural communities and often hold low-paying jobs. Currently, members of lower castes and tribes represent five out of six people living in multidimensional poverty in India.

The Deccan Development Society

The Deccan Development Society was founded more than two decades ago, working in about 75 villages of Tanangala province, it aimed to unite 5,000 women from the Dalit caste living in extreme poverty to improve their living conditions. At the heart of their efforts lie solidarity economy principles and poverty alleviation through the communities’ self-reliant operations. These communities prioritize democratic processes, focusing on food and resource sustainability. They empower women from lower castes to engage in economic decision-making, incorporating permaculture, sustainable agriculture and education as key strategies for food security. The society’s autonomous yet collaborative approach to managing agricultural resources has enabled the production of an additional 1,000 meals per family annually.

The Deccan Development Society’s notable success has shown that solidarity economies are effective in mitigating poverty resulting from entrenched systems of inequality. Moreover, by focusing on sustainable and self-sufficient production that aims at well-being, society has reclaimed community agency against the backdrop of caste disparities. In 2019, the society received the United Nations (U.N.) Equator Award, is a distinguished recognition for organizations that combat poverty by sustainably utilizing biodiversity. While much of India faced production challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Deccan Development Society managed to donate 10 kilograms of grains to the region’s relief efforts.

The Future of Solidarity Economy

Organizations advocating for the solidarity economy model, aim to address critical 21st-century challenges in the developing world, such as inequality, poverty and the scarcity of natural resources. The U.N. has established a task force under the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) umbrella to promote and study SSE’s role in achieving the 17 SDGs. Furthermore, the U.N. views SSE as a transformative force with the potential to redefine the implementation of the SDGs, emphasizing self-determination and an economy based on social needs. SSE is considered capable of influencing policy at the national level. Looking ahead, the impact of solidarity economies on poverty reduction could evolve into a global network, amplifying their progressive agenda for broader visibility and support.

– Felix Stephens

Felix is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Combating the Drug Cartel Recruitment of Mexican Youth

Drug cartel recruitmentIn Mexico, drug trafficking endangers civilians of all ages through increasing crime and violence. Rampant cartel activity particularly impacts children. For example, due to increased cartel-related violence, schools are no longer safe spaces for young students to receive an education. In a 2012 national survey, 38.8% of the population chose school as one of the public spaces where they feel unsafe. Children are additionally at risk of drug cartel recruitment. This is because cartels seek unlikely suspects and easily dispensable members. If prosecuted, minors also are not charged as adults.

Targeting Impoverished Children

According to the Network for Children’s Rights in Mexico, organized crime groups recruited about 350,000 young people around the country, with around 400,000 finding themselves vulnerable to drug cartel recruitment. Cartels especially target impoverished children who live in tumultuous households, swaying them to join with the promise of economic gain and even a “sense of belonging.”

Reinserta is a non-profit organization in Mexico working to protect children from this growing issue. Founded in 2013, Reinserta offers education, job training and placement and mental health support for children facing crime and violence in Mexico in general. The organization supports youth in proximity to organized crime and drug cartel recruitment with research and reintegration efforts.

Research

Since its founding, the organization has conducted six research studies and reports on violence impacting adolescents in general. It has also conducted surveys to see the impacts of drug cartel recruitment of youth more specifically. The investigation explores the prevalence and gravity of cartels recruiting young members.

It has also hosted 89 interviews with minors in juvenile detention centers and found that 67 were part of cartel activity before their arrest. All the organization’s research and data from the organization is calling attention to a problem that continues to target children who are as young as 10. Reinserta recognizes that progress begins with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the issue at hand.

Reintegration

For youth who have already been involved in organized crime, Reinserta offers models of reintegration and rehabilitation. It works across 14 detention centers for youth, offering education and job training and placement services. Through its work, the organization saw that eight out of 10 participating youth continued studying or found a job after Reinserta’s programs. Some of the most common jobs the young people have found are in “gastronomy, styling, barbering, sewing, serigraphy, paramedics, radio and muralism.” In total, the non-profit has impacted over 1,300 adolescents who have been in prison, with a non-recurrent rate of more than 90%, according to its website.

As drug cartel recruitment in Mexico has increased in the past years, the work of Reinserta is becoming more critical than ever. Through its important research and reintegration initiatives, Reinserta operates as one of the Mexican non-profits making the most change for adolescents affected by violence today.

– Estelle Lee
Photo: Unsplash

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Education to prevent child labor in Bolivia

child labor In BoliviaIn Bolivia, “one of the poorest nations in Latin America,” children face alarming levels of monetary poverty, affecting 48% of children overall and disproportionately impacting 65% of indigenous girls. These figures starkly contrast with the high national poverty rate of 36.4% and an extreme poverty rate of 11.1% recorded in 2021. These circumstances fuel the widespread prevalence of child labor in Bolivia, with 286,890 children aged 7-14 working as of 2022, many of them working in the mining industry.

With global silver demand surging by 18% in 2023, mining companies are turning their attention to Bolivia, a country that formerly supplied 20% of the world’s silver. However, historical Spanish involvement in Bolivia’s silver mining has tarnished its reputation with exploitation. Consequently, efforts to prevent a potential increase in child labor in Bolivia and the mining industry are underway through educational initiatives led by organizations such as PASOCAP.

History of Mining

Cerro Rico, meaning Rich Mountain, towers over the city of Potosí and is famous for the world’s “richest silver deposit” discovered in 1545. During the Spanish conquest in 1532, the Spanish exploited indigenous expertise through the mita, a forced labor practice that resulted in a significant decline in the Andean indigenous population while funding the expansion of the Spanish empire.

Toxic dust and fumes exposed miners to perilous conditions, which earned Cerro Rico the name “The Mountain That Eats Men.” Estimates suggest that the forced labor at the mine claimed the lives of 8 million indigenous people and African slaves. Despite the arrival of the liberator Simon Bolivar in 1825, the mita persisted until its abolition in 1832, according to Kris Lane’s study.

Mining in Bolivia Today

Mining continues to be the primary economic activity in Potosí. However, with much of the wealth and resources already extracted, families face financial struggles, relying on the scant earnings from what remains of the plundered riches. In the past, UNICEF has stated that poverty and family breakdown are the primary causes pushing children into mining labor. Despite the Bolivian government’s classification of mining as one of the worst forms of child labor in Bolivia for its impact on health and education, according to a 2022 report, children are compelled to take risks and make sacrifices to support their families’ livelihoods.

Children who are as young as 15 have contracted silicosis, a lung disease that exposure to silica dust causes, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, coughing, loss of appetite and death. ABC News reveals that a lack of investment and safety inspections has led to inadequate safety measures, including insufficient safety gear, power and ventilation. Additionally, miners face other hazards such as toxic gases, mine collapses, dynamite handling and electrocution from outdated machinery, according to a 2023 report. These conditions perpetuate a cycle of poverty and miners’ low life expectancy of about 45 years.

Education for the Elimination of Child Labor

Nadia Alejandra Cruz Tarifa, the Vice Minister of Equal Opportunities at Bolivia’s Ministry of Justice and International Transparency, shed light on the significant role poverty plays in driving child labor in Bolivia during her address to the 2023 Committee on the Rights of the Child.

During her speech, she emphasized the pivotal link between education and poverty elimination in Bolivia, stressing the prevalence of school dropouts as a significant challenge for the state. She applauded the effectiveness of the Juancito Pinto bonus, a government initiative that offers annual monetary incentives to students and their families, successfully encouraging millions to stay in school, OHCHR reports. By addressing financial struggles, this initiative allows students to pursue education rather than resorting to hazardous labor like mining.

The Work of PASOCAP

After a decade of dedicated effort, PASOCAP collaborated with the working children of Potosí, establishing a dedicated day of commemoration for the dignity of working children in the city on December 8. This milestone also includes the enactment of Municipal Law No. 419, regulating fund allocation for initiatives addressing protection and prevention issues concerning working children. PASOCAPS’s Casa NAT’s program enabled this achievement by empowering young children to act as agents of change, exercising their citizenship and contributing to sustainable development.

Among the institution’s many initiatives is the InterSol Program, which targets “families, guards, watchmen, children, adolescents and young people” living and working alongside Cerro Rico. It aims to empower individuals regarding their constitutional and labor rights through workshops, emphasising laws safeguarding children and women while disseminating strategies to combat child abuse and reduce child labor in Bolivia.

Another initiative, “Protagonists of Peace” supports children struggling with violence, social disadvantage and the direct impacts of mining activities. It aims to equip them with life skills, enhance opportunities and promote advocacy for their rights. The primary goal is to improve the living standards of children and families linked to mining through comprehensive training, empowering them to influence municipal policies. Additionally, the project prioritizes health and nutrition, ensuring access to primary health care services for participants.

Instead of consigning children to work in the mines of Cerro Rico, PASOCAP is providing them with opportunities to challenge the industry’s structures and develop skills that offer genuine and sustainable alternatives that break the cycle of poverty. The Cerro Rico silver mines provide a microcosm through which to examine the high rates of child poverty and child labor in Bolivia. Acknowledging the efforts of institutions like PASOCAP in protecting children is crucial in light of potential future mining activities in the country.

– Ben Miley-Smith
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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5 Charities Operating in Laos

Charities Operating in LaosLaos, a country located in Southeast Asia with a GDP of $2,054 and 18.3% of the population living in poverty, ranks 115th out of 167th in the overall Prosperity Index. According to an article from Amnesty International, multiple areas pose a problem for the country’s human rights, including “economic, social and cultural rights.” However, here are five charities operating in Laos that are helping Laotian people have access to things that are easy to take for granted such as education, access to water and appropriate health care.

GreenHeart Foundation

GreenHeart Foundation is a humanitarian nonprofit organization that has made a “continuous pursuit to address issues of poverty, gender inequality, sex trafficking and unexploded bombs and promote creative expressions through the Preservation and Perpetuation, and Promotion of culture and arts in Asia.” Alongside USAID, the foundation has helped “establish and promote cottage weaving industries along with Consortium and the Lao Women’s Union.” The project provided various benefits to more than 533 weavers. GreenHeart Foundation has helped women express themselves through their artwork which is a part of their life through their traditional cultures. Expressing themselves through creativity can help these women get recognition in a country that’s struggling with social and economic rights.

The Asia Foundation

The Asia Foundation is a nonprofit international development organization that focuses on improving lives and expanding opportunities across Asia and the Pacific. It plays an active role in working “with the Lao government to improve human rights and help communities manage the development and safeguard their natural environment.”

Natural resources account for more than a third of Laos’ total economic growth, which puts increased pressure on the environment. The Asia Foundation provided support to three villages in the Xe Bang Fai district and Khammouane province, helping the people “develop sustainable and economically viable wetland management plans.” Allowing people to use wetland resources can help them financially while also supporting “smallscale riverbank erosion protection measures,” according to The Asia Foundation.

Laos Educational Opportunities Trust (LEOT)

Established in 2006, Laos Education Opportunities Trust (LEOT) aims to “supplement local efforts and ensure students can access quality education and the skills they need to be successful in the future.” This includes community projects, scholarships and sponsorship programs that support children as students and work with isolated or rural villages to “improve the health and sanitation of families and communities.”  This has posed an equal opportunity for all children regardless of their social or economic status within their family households.

Laos Rehabilitation Foundation (LRF)

Laos Rehabilitation Foundation (LRF) is a nonprofit, nonreligious, and nonpolitical organization that aims to “provide medical services to Laotian people and surrounding communities with a greater focus on children and the poor.” LRF has had many accomplishments, including “providing items of personal hygiene and clothing to the children of Home of Light, a school for blind children” in Vientiane. LRF has also completed various construction projects for the country including building various health centers and schools to help provide children the best care that they deserve.

The World Health Organization (WHO)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been “involved in supporting the development of health services and health systems in Laos since the country became a member of the organization in 1950.” WHO’s mission towards Laos is to “achieve the highest level of health for all health sector reforms and universal health coverage for the country by 2025.” Providing health care to all people living in both rural and urban areas could help the country improve its human rights and fight poverty.

It is through these five charities operating in Laos that Laos continues to receive help to better improve their country environmentally, economically and socially. Laos could potentially improve its human rights record through charities that have helped make a difference in providing better human rights.

– Nevin Guler
Photo: Unsplash

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Cultivating Hope: Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban Farming in São PauloAs one of the largest cities in the world, São Paulo faces numerous challenges, including poverty, food insecurity and environmental degradation. However, innovative initiatives centered around urban agriculture are offering a ray of hope for its residents. The movement to make urban areas greener and more sustainable has been gaining ground in Brazil and worldwide since the early 2000s. Moreso, urban farming in São Paulo is emerging as a pivotal strategy to address ongoing issues, highlighting its growing importance in the city’s efforts to improve the quality of life for its residents.

Urban Farming in São Paulo

Urban farming refers to growing fruits, vegetables and herbs within urban areas, utilizing limited space such as rooftops, vacant lots and community gardens. In São Paulo, where access to fresh, nutritious food can be scarce in low-income neighborhoods, urban farming initiatives are playing a crucial role in addressing food deserts and improving food security. By bringing agriculture closer to urban dwellers, these initiatives reduce the distance food needs to travel from farm to table, thereby lowering costs and increasing accessibility.

Despite the numerous benefits of urban farming, it still faces challenges and limitations. Land tenure issues, limited access to resources and bureaucratic hurdles can hinder the scalability and sustainability of urban farming initiatives. In addition, the unequal distribution of wealth and resources within the city exacerbates existing disparities, making it difficult for some communities to fully engage with urban farming efforts.

Environmental Impact of Urban Farming

Urban farming in São Paulo has environmental benefits that extend beyond its economic and social impacts. By converting vacant lots into green spaces, urban farms help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality and promote biodiversity. Additionally, these initiatives often employ sustainable farming practices such as composting, rainwater harvesting and organic cultivation methods, thereby reducing the city’s ecological footprint and enhancing its resilience to climate change.

Hortelões Urbanos

The Hortelões Urbanos network or Urban Horticulturists, stands out as a leading initiative in São Paulo. Its members champion food autonomy and strive to lessen reliance on traditional farming practices, agribusiness and large retailers. Key principles of the network include fostering equal partnerships between rural and urban communities and opposing the adverse effects of agribusiness on natural resources, transportation, excessive packaging, waste production and labor exploitation.

Nagib and Nakamura report that initiatives like these promote the sharing of experiences and information about urban agriculture, whether at the household or community level. Involving residents in the cultivation process fosters a sense of ownership and empowerment within these communities.

Urban farming in São Paulo offers economic opportunities for vulnerable populations, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation. Through training programs and cooperatives, individuals living in impoverished areas are equipped with the knowledge and resources to grow their food or even start small-scale agricultural businesses. By selling surplus produce at local markets or participating in community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, urban farmers can potentially generate additional income, thus reducing their reliance on expensive store-bought groceries and improving their financial stability.

Looking Ahead

Urban farming offers significant potential as a strategy for reducing poverty and developing communities in São Paulo. The ongoing initiatives enhance access to fresh food, generate economic opportunities and promote environmental sustainability, presenting a comprehensive solution to the intricate issues urban populations encounter. As São Paulo expands and progresses, urban farming is poised to play a crucial role in the city’s endeavors to create a more equitable and resilient environment for all residents.

– Rhys Woodward

Rhys is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Guardians of Everest: Poverty Amongst Sherpas

Guardians of Everest: Poverty Amongst SherpasThe Sherpa people, nestled in the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, have long been synonymous with mountaineering prowess. Yet, behind the façade of adventure and glory lies a harsh reality: the pervasive poverty and exploitation faced by these indigenous mountain communities. In 2023, the Fourth Nepal Living Standards Survey reported that Nepal had a poverty rate of 20.27%. Currently, an intricate web of factors contributes to poverty amongst Sherpas, primarily stemming from exploitation within the adventure industry.

A Legacy of Mountaineering Excellence

For generations, Sherpas have served as the unsung heroes of Himalayan expeditions, guiding climbers through treacherous terrain and shouldering the burdens of the ascent. Renowned for their unparalleled strength, resilience and intimate knowledge of the mountains, Sherpas play an indispensable role in facilitating the conquest of some of the world’s highest peaks.

Moreover, Mount Everest, known as Sagarmatha in Nepal, has become a bucket-list expedition for some and often requires a Sherpa guide to navigate the tough terrain. As a result, the central Sherpa community has undergone a lasting alteration of its cultural practices and means of sustenance. According to The Kathmandu Post, tourism employs 11.5% of the Nepals workforce— about 370,000 people. The majority of Sherpas work within this industry.

Disparity in Compensation

Despite their indispensable contributions, Sherpas often find themselves at the short end of the economic stick. While expedition leaders and adventure companies reap substantial financial rewards from high-priced mountaineering expeditions, Sherpas receive meager wages for their laborious work. This vast disparity in compensation underscores the exploitative dynamics within the adventure industry, where Sherpa labor is undervalued and under-compensated. According to National Geographic, a guided hike to Everest can cost anywhere between $30,000 and $120,000.

We Are Reckless reported that on average, Sherpa guides only make around $4000 for the whole climbing season. Furthermore, it noted that guides with Western backgrounds make around $50,000 comparatively. In fact, the wage gap between Western guides and Sherpa guides emphasizes the lack of regard for Sherpa’s lives that the tourism industry has and brings to light the reality of poverty among Sherpas.

Occupational Hazards and Lack of Protection

Mountaineering expeditions, fraught with altitude sickness, avalanches and extreme weather, pose inherent risks. Sherpas, pivotal to these ventures, often face these dangers without adequate protection, insurance, or compensation for injuries or fatalities. Their safety and well-being frequently take a backseat in the quest for summit achievements. Unfortunately, a tragic event occurred in 2014 when at least 13 Sherpa guides perished in an avalanche on Everest, trapped in a ‘human traffic jam’ while carrying equipment for clients. Nonetheless, Sherpas routinely navigate these hazardous zones to facilitate climbers, and this highlights the perilous conditions they endure to support expeditions.

Environmental Degradation and Cultural Erosion

The commodification of Everest and other Himalayan peaks has led to environmental degradation and the erosion of traditional Sherpa culture. Commercial mountaineering has transformed once-pristine landscapes into overcrowded tourist hubs, straining fragile ecosystems and diminishing the spiritual significance of sacred mountains. Depali Rai, writing for Protocol Mag, describes the gentrification of Everest’s base camp, claiming the “once remote misty villages some 3440 meters above sea level now host Irish pubs, import Korean Ramyun and serve Nepalese and Western fare in equal measure.”

Sherpas, deeply reverent of the natural world and profoundly connected to their ancestral homeland, are grappling with the loss of traditional livelihoods and cultural identity amid unchecked commercialization.

Looking Forward

As awareness of poverty amongst Sherpas grows, there is an increasing call for equitable treatment, fair wages and safer working conditions in the mountaineering industry. Moreso, concerted efforts to address these issues can lead to a more sustainable and respectful approach to Himalayan expeditions, ensuring the Sherpas are honored not just for their skill but also for their indispensable contribution to the adventure tourism economy.

– Lauren McKenna

Lauren is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Digital Innovation Empowering Rural Entrepreneurs

Empowering Rural EntrepreneursIn the face of rapid digital advancement, innovative solutions are emerging as powerful tools for alleviating poverty worldwide. The development sector is increasingly utilizing digital innovation to support rural entrepreneurs, thereby forging a path toward sustainable poverty reduction through technology. This article examines the transformative impact of online commerce and direct cash transfers by organizations like GiveDirectly and GiveWell on empowering rural entrepreneurs and sparking economic development in underserved areas.

The Power of Direct Cash Transfer

As technological advancements gain popularity in urban settings, rural communities are not left behind, due to aid from organizations like GiveDirectly. This organization equips people in rural areas with phones, enabling contributors to send funds directly to those in greatest need. GiveWell and GiveDirectly have demonstrated the success and sustainability of grants over loans in reducing poverty, through tracking and analyzing cash transfers. These grants, with few or no strings attached, have not only shown a proven track record of success but also represent the most ethical giving method, granting recipients complete control over their paths out of poverty.

Microloans vs. Unconditional Wealth Transfer

Assuming impoverished people cannot manage their finances overlooks the structural and systemic nature of poverty. This perspective has fueled the popularity of microloans as a poverty reduction strategy. When donating to an organization, contributions often cover staff salaries, outreach costs and more, stretching funds to support not only the target populations but also the organization’s sustainability. Meanwhile, loans risk entrenching people in a cycle of poverty, with the burden of repayment potentially falling on their children if the parents fail to pay off the debt.

For this reason, GiveWell has invested in the analysis of GiveDirectly, a study that compares microloans to unconditional cash transfers. According to GiveWell, “It requires far more overhead to run a microlending operation than to run a cash transfer operation.” Additionally, many microloan agencies operate as for-profit businesses rather than humanitarian nonprofits like GiveDirectly. This distinction often means there’s less incentive for them to avoid indebting the people they aim to assist

The Case for Direct Cash Transfers

Organizations have rigorously studied cash transfers, finding strong evidence they reduce monetary poverty. A 2016 report from the Department for International Development highlights cash transfers as among the most thoroughly researched development interventions. However, only 2% of major government funding goes toward direct cash transfers.

Global Market Access for Rural Artisans

Technological innovation, particularly online marketplaces, is advancing global development by opening access to the global market. People in low-income, rural areas often create sought-after artisanal products, but traditionally they could sell them only to tourists at local prices. For-profit and nonprofit companies are emerging to offer entrepreneurs technology access and digital business strategies. These initiatives empower rural women’s groups to develop websites or use existing platforms to sell their products at fair prices, reflecting the hours of labor invested in their creation. Digital platforms connect rural producers directly with consumers and markets, eliminating intermediaries and ensuring fair prices for their products. The ongoing trends show that collaborating through websites fosters community-led development.

The Future of Technology in Development

Digital innovation and solutions, such as direct cash transfers and global market access, are reshaping the landscape of poverty alleviation, empowering rural entrepreneurs to take charge of their economic futures. These advancements promise a sustainable pathway out of poverty, leveraging technology to bridge gaps and foster inclusive growth.

– Kiera Gorman

Kiera is based in Santa Cruz, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Looking Back: 5 Influential Global Poverty Reduction Acts

Looking Back: 5 Influential Global Poverty Reduction Acts The United States (U.S.) has demonstrated its commitment to prioritizing global poverty reduction legislation. In recent years, the U.S. Congress has enacted significant bills aimed at reducing global poverty, with its impact resonating worldwide. So far, these efforts underscore the success of U.S. global poverty reduction acts and their ongoing effectiveness into 2024.

5 Influential Global Poverty Reduction Acts

  1. BUILD Act. The Better Utilization of Investments Leading to Development Act, known as The BUILD Act of 2018, established the United States International Development Finance Corporation to boost economic growth in developing countries. In a Center for Strategic and International Studies interview with Congressman Andy Kim (D-NJ), the House representative applauded the millions of equity investments provided in Ukraine and Brazil. The BUILD Act, under the IDFC’s framework, is slated for reauthorization in 2025.
  2. Global Food Security Act. The Global Food Security Act of 2016 enhanced farmers’ access to both local and international markets. The act improves agricultural infrastructure and expands market opportunities in developing countries. This act has lifted millions of people out of poverty, building on the achievements of the landmark Feed the Future Act of 2010. In addition, Feed the Future reduced global hunger by 5.2 million. It elevated 23.4 million people from poverty and generated $15.3 billion in agricultural sales for farmers, among other successes. As a vital component of global poverty reduction legislation, the Global Food Security Act received reauthorization in 2018 and 2023.
  3. Global Malnutrition Prevention and Treatment Act. The Global Malnutrition Prevention and Treatment Act of 2022 equipped the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) with the resources to tackle food safety, fortification and health care systems, among other health-related challenges in developing countries. As of 2022, USAID’s health initiatives have benefited 32 million children and 11.6 million pregnant mothers.
  4. Global Fragility Act. The Global Fragility Act (GFA), enacted in 2019, aims to prevent violence in fragile countries. The Biden administration identified nine countries where the U.S. plans to mitigate domestic conflicts and violence. Additionally, these partnerships include efforts in Haiti, Libya, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea and Coastal West Africa—namely Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea and Togo—targeting regions with significant conflict challenges.
  5. Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act. The Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act, enacted in 2019, mandates USAID to prioritize education for displaced girls. This legislation aims to enhance access to education for children, especially girls in countries where they face discrimination. In addition, it addresses the gap wherein a quarter of girls aged 15 to 19 worldwide lack access to formal education. This significantly limits their employment opportunities in the formal sector.

Fighting Global Poverty

The U.S. continues to lead global poverty reduction acts through impactful legislation. Crucial issues from food security to education and conflict resolution are being addressed. In addition, these acts represent a multifaceted approach to eradicating poverty. They showcase the U.S.’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and stability worldwide. As these programs move forward, their ongoing success and expansion offer hope for a future where global poverty is significantly diminished. They underscore the importance of continued support and innovation in tackling these challenges.

– Marley Wilson

Marley is based in Waltham, MA, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

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