Archive for category: Economy

Information and stories about economy.

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The Cost of the F-35 Program vs. the Cost of Ending World Hunger

The Cost of The F-35Ending world hunger is closer than people often imagine. Sometimes it is easy to lose sight of how much money is necessary to reach this goal. People may think that so much is already being spent without there being much more room for progress. When this happens, it is helpful to have a comparison between things that Americans already spend a lot on like the military, and aid organizations whose funding is much less.

The emphasis of performing these comparisons is not necessarily to highlight the fact that less should be spent on important things like national defense, but rather that if similar amounts were to be spent on dire issues like world hunger, the effect of that spending would be tremendous. To narrow things down, this article will examine the cost of the F-35, the U.S. Defense Department’s newest fighter jet. The article will compare the F-35s cost to the spending of the World Food Program (WFP), based on its 2023 annual performance report.

The Cost of The F-35

For almost two decades now, since its first test flight in 2006, the F-35 fighter jet has been the example of what the most modern technologies look like in an aircraft. It boasts impressive radar technologies that allow it to easily locate enemy aircraft before it can be located, giving pilots a tactical advantage. The F-35 is also a force multiplier, collecting large amounts of information at once, while translating it to other aircraft including those using other aircraft systems.

Among 16 other nations planning to use the F-35 fighter jet, the U.S. has already purchased just more than 600 F-35s and plans to purchase approximately 2,000 more in the future. In its entire lifecycle, the cost of the F-35 fighter jet has totaled $1.6 trillion due in large part to its sustainment costs which have increased 44% in the past five years. As costs continue to increase, the response to meet the Defense Department’s affordability target has been to decrease the amount of airtime spent, while also trying to make the aircraft less expensive to fly.

In efforts to reach affordability targets, several initiatives undertaken have been somewhat successful in reducing costs by $85 billion due to improved reliability of aircraft parts. Despite this, there is still a growing backlog of repairs that have reduced the jet’s availability. These repairs and increased concerns about spending are what led the U.S. Navy to reduce their projected flying hours by 45%, and the U.S. Air Force to reduce their projected flying hours by 19%, according to Diana Maurer. Improvements are still necessary in aircraft sustainability to ensure that the military has proper equipment while remaining affordable for U.S. citizens.

WFP Spending

According to the data from the annual performance report of 2023 for the WFP, the organization spent a total of $10 billion on providing aid – $8.3 billion of that $10 billion was aid received for that year, while the remaining approximately $2 billion came from unspent funds of the previous year. This aid mostly consists of meeting people’s urgent food and nutritional needs, with the remainder spent mostly on improving health and education in target countries.

At a time when critical aid was increasingly necessary due to conflict, natural disasters and the lingering effects of the Coronavirus outbreak, the WFP reached approximately 152 million people. It accomplished this despite not reaching its initial funding goal by more than 60%, the largest gap in the WFP’s history, according to the 2023 report. Since its funding was significantly less than the previous years and even more so than the estimates of a needs-based approach, this $10 billion funding went almost exclusively to reaching people in crisis areas. These are areas where the threats of starvation and malnutrition are imminent such as in the countries of Afghanistan, Yemen and Ethiopia.

Using the previously mentioned numbers, the WFP critically supported one person for every $66,000 spent. While that is not a small amount of money, it is also important to note that many of these aid recipients received aid continually through food assistance programs, which continue to have a lasting effect. For example, every day in 2023, WFP distributed 14.5 billion food rations which averaged $50 a year for every beneficiary, according to the 2023 report. Oftentimes these food rations are the only thing keeping families from starvation, making the distribution of such aid essential.

The Cost of Ending World Hunger

Now seeing the cost of the F-35 fighter jet and the expenditures of the WFP, it is easier to understand what a large impact spending on world hunger can have. If just as much of the $1.6 trillion spent on the F-35 were to be spent on one year of the WFP’s annual expenditures, the outreach would expand by approximately 160 times to what it was in 2023. This means that instead of reaching 152 million people, a total amount of people summing more than everyone on earth could receive the same number of benefits that year. That would include more than 2 trillion food rations distributed, with still billions of dollars left to spend on the health and educational programs that The WFP’s funding also goes towards.

While the WFP receiving $1.6 trillion is quite a difference from what their annual funding typically looks like, it highlights that humanity is not that far away from solving world hunger. Picturing the WFP receiving funding that matches the cost of the F-35 fighter jet reminds us of how impactful and effective aid organizations truly are.

– Hunter Gomersall

Hunter is based in Santa Barbara, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women Entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia: Economic Empowerment

Women Entrepreneurs in Saudi ArabiaWomen play a crucial role in global economic growth. According to research from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), reducing gender disparities in labor markets could boost gross domestic product (GDP) in developing and emerging economies by nearly 8%.

If the gender gap were closed entirely, the impact would be even more significant, potentially raising GDP in these nations by an average of 23%. Empowering women economically fosters greater income equality and diversification, contributing to more inclusive and sustainable growth. Overall, closing the gender gap could add $7 trillion to the global economy.

Gender Disparity and Poverty in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in gender equality, but disparities remain, particularly in economic participation. While the country has seen significant progress in recent years, women still face challenges accessing capital, business networks and certain industries. One in every 10 women globally is living in extreme poverty and economic barriers in Saudi Arabia have historically contributed to gendered income disparities.

Despite these challenges, Saudi Arabia’s recent economic reforms have drastically improved opportunities for women in the workforce and entrepreneurship. “Between 2017 and 2021, the Saudi female labor force participation rate doubled from 17.4% to 35.6%,” surpassing the Vision 2030 target of 30%. These numbers indicate a shift in economic priorities, but further policy support is needed to ensure long-term sustainability and equal access to financial resources.

Legal Reforms

Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has implemented key legal reforms that have removed barriers for women in business. The World Bank’s Women Business and the Law 2024 report states that Saudi Arabia now scores a perfect 100 in laws affecting women’s decisions to work, pay equity, business ownership and pensions. These reforms include:

  • Lifting restrictions on women starting and running businesses without male guardianship.
  • Granting women the right to drive in 2018, increasing mobility and access to business opportunities.
  • Anti-discrimination laws to ensure equal pay and employment opportunities.
  • Government-led programs supporting women entrepreneurs through funding and mentorship initiatives.

These legal changes have fostered an environment where female-led businesses can thrive, further accelerating Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification goals.

Women Entrepreneurs Leading Economic Transformation

As a result of these reforms, Saudi women are increasingly shaping the country’s startup ecosystem. According to the 2021-2022 Women’s Report for Saudi Arabia by the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor, 95% of Saudi women consider entrepreneurship a good career choice, 93% see viable opportunities for new businesses and 90% believe it is easy to start a business.

One standout entrepreneur is Mounira Jamjoom, cofounder of Aanaab, an online professional development platform for teachers across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Aanaab collaborates with local and global institutions to offer short courses, qualifications and licensing programs that assist educators and strengthen the education sector.

Another trailblazer, Bayan Linjawi, launched Blossom, Saudi Arabia’s female-focused accelerator, which supports women-led startups in securing funding and scaling their businesses. Today, initiatives like Monsha’at, Saudi Arabia’s Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) authority, promote female entrepreneurship by providing grants, training and business development support.

A Future Driven by Women Entrepreneurs

The rise of women entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia signals a transformative shift in the country’s economic landscape. With legal reforms, social acceptance and government-backed initiatives, the path for women in business is auspicious. However, sustained efforts are required to ensure that all women, including those in rural areas and lower income brackets, have the same opportunities.

As Saudi Arabia progresses toward its Vision 2030 goals, empowering women entrepreneurs will be crucial in driving economic diversification and long-term prosperity. The momentum is strong, but the journey toward full gender equality in business is far from over. By continuing to invest in policies that support female-led enterprises, Saudi Arabia can set a global example of economic inclusion and sustainable growth.

– Linnéa Matlack

Linnéa is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Renewable Energy in Eritrea: The Effects of Solar Power

Renewable Energy in EritreaAccess to electricity is a fundamental driver of economic growth and poverty reduction. Without it, businesses cannot run, schools cannot provide quality education and healthcare facilities struggle to operate effectively. In Eritrea, where nearly half of the population lives in poverty, access to electricity remains a significant challenge. Only 53% of the population has access to electricity, 76% in urban areas and only 10% in rural regions. This limited access hinders economic opportunities; however, a recent push toward renewable energy, particularly solar power, offers hope for a brighter future. As Eritrea experiences steady GDP growth and declining poverty rates, renewable energy in Eritrea has the potential to accelerate this progress by expanding electricity access sustainably and cost-effectively.

The Role of Electricity in Economic Development

The World Bank identifies inclusive economic growth as the most effective means of reducing poverty. However, sustainable development is impossible without adequate, reliable and competitively priced modern energy. In Eritrea, where heavy reliance on imported oil has historically shaped the energy sector, the transition to renewable energy is not just about environmental sustainability–it is an economic necessity. By reducing dependence on expensive and volatile fossil fuel imports, Eritrea may be able to stabilize its economy and allocate resources more efficiently. 

Solar Power: A Sustainable Solution

Eritrea is investing in renewable solutions to address this energy gap, including constructing a 30 MW Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant in Dekemhare funded by the African Development Bank. The plant will create both short-term and long-term jobs, but its secondary benefits are transformative. Increasing national energy capacity from 35 MW to 65 MW–closer to the 70 MW peak demand–will reduce power shortages and load shedding, ensuring more consistent access to electricity. This additional power is crucial for small businesses, agricultural operations and educational institutions. More stable energy access means businesses can extend working hours, farmers can use solar-powered irrigation systems, and schools can introduce digital learning tools.

Addressing Agricultural Challenges

Agriculture is the backbone of Eritrea’s economy, with more than 75% of the population relying on it for their livelihoods. However, limited electricity access restricts agricultural practices such as irrigation. Conventional pumps for irrigation require diesel, but low domestic oil production, decreased imports and high fuel prices have made it increasingly difficult for farmers to maintain operations. With a peak energy demand of 70 MW and only 35 MW of operational capacity, power shortages further exacerbate poverty and food insecurity. The introduction of solar power can significantly improve irrigation systems across the country and enhance overall agricultural productivity. By investing in renewable energy, Eritrea can strengthen food security while simultaneously driving economic growth.

A Path Forward

The transition to renewable energy is not just about meeting electricity demand–it is about transforming lives. With Eritrea’s GDP projected to reach $10.1 billion by 2043 and extreme poverty expected to decline to 13%, Eritrea stands at a pivotal moment where renewable energy can accelerate progress. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and expanding electricity access, the country can unlock new economic opportunities, improve living standards and pave the way for sustainable development. 

As the push toward renewable energy in Eritrea continues, the benefits will extend far beyond electricity. They will reshape communities, empower businesses and create a more prosperous future for all.

– Linnéa Matlack

Linnéa is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Good News, and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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endPoverty Creating Job Opportunities in Bangladesh

Job Opportunities in Bangladesh endPoverty is a charity that strives to alleviate poverty through resources and support related to entrepreneurship, enabling sustainable growth and creating job opportunities around the world and in Bangladesh. This foundation focuses on economic development rather than relief programs as they believe that the power of business opportunity can become a means of alleviating poverty, via the creation of stable income streams and job opportunities in Bangladesh.

Lack of Employment for Women in Bangladesh

Despite steady economic growth in recent years, a stark contrast between rates of male and female employment remains prevalent in Bangladesh. Women are significantly more likely to experience unemployment than men, with rates of labour participation at around 80% for men, and 37% for women.

Prejudice permeates much of Bangladeshi culture, which in turn influences how many women enter work. UNDP estimates that approximately 90% of the population hold a distorted view of women, according to the Light Castle Partners. This bias includes beliefs that suggest women should marry young and therefore rely financially on their husbands and become primary caregivers, rather than completing education and pursuing a career. For women who are employed, misogyny is common as male colleagues may hold a bias against their female peers, which can result in exclusion and a lack of progression opportunities.

Women may also not receive the same access to opportunities as men due to a lack of networks and available information. Many jobs are posted through informal networks that women do not often have access to, again because of prejudice and lack of social mobility which also means many women do not have phones or the internet. Similarly, as women are often stuck in the home they receive less information about potential jobs than their male counterparts, making finding work more difficult which impedes their ability to attain employment, further increasing the gender employment gap.

The 3C Model

endPoverty utilizes the 3C Model to assist small businesses in creating both viable and maintainable growth opportunities, spearheading positive economic progress.

The first C – capital – ensures that small businesses can access low-cost, malleable capital that allows for innovation and economic advancements.

The second C – coaching – offers small businesses support in the form of personalised coaching sessions that tackle the individual needs and skills of the business, intending to spark further economic development.

The third C – community – situates like-mindedness and people at the forefront of business development by prioritising a faith-based community where people can meet other local entrepreneurs.

The Harvest Project: Job Opportunities in Bangladesh

The Harvest Project is one of endPoverty’s campaigns, aimed at tackling poverty through business and job opportunities. Based in Bangladesh, the Harvest Project works with local female entrepreneurs and offers them the support and guidance needed to be leaders in their communities.

This project follows a holistic approach, meaning that it works with micro-entrepreneurs who are seeking help to kickstart a business and provide for their families. Through this initiative, endPoverty aims to create a community for vulnerable women who are seeking financial relief to improve their family’s quality of life, as well as to safeguard one another in cases of domestic abuse.

endPoverty has provided support to many women in Bangladesh, for example, Romesa, who is from Ramnagar in Bangladesh. Before she discovered endPoverty, Romesa had been experiencing financial worries for three years due to her husband’s poor health and inability to work. She then came across a microentrepreneur in her community, named Minara, who taught Romesa administrative and technical skills that allowed her to create an income for herself. Romesa now continues to share her knowledge and the work of endPoverty, as the skills learned from Minara allowed her to create a better life for herself and her family.

Alleviating Poverty

endPoverty’s Harvest Project contributes to the alleviation of poverty by offering sequential training and a support network that, when combined, comprise a web of microenterprises that enable vulnerable women to support themselves and their families and ultimately improve their quality of life.

– Ella Dorman

Ella is based in Worcestershire, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know About Poverty in Chile 

Poverty in ChileChile is located on the west side of South America and is an area rich in natural resources and minerals, like copper. These resources make up a large part of the Chilean economy, making the country a relatively wealthy one – however, the wealth is not equally distributed, leaving many people living in poverty. ‘Poverty’ equates to different things in different countries; poverty in Chile includes people who struggle to afford enough food for survival and people who have to spend the majority of their income on food.

Economic Inequality and Poverty in Chile

Of all the world’s most industrialized countries, Chile has one of the highest levels of economic inequality. The wealth inequality has often been so extreme that in 2006, for example, the richest 20% of the population was earning 10 times more than the poorest 20%, leaving a large divide between people living comfortably and people living in poverty.

As so much of the country’s wealth comes from the copper industry, the economic growth does not benefit everyone, as people in rural or marginalized areas lack access to high-paying mining jobs or industrial resources. Without these roles, many citizens end up struggling to deal with the rising cost of living, and cannot easily break out of the poverty cycle.

Inequalities in Education and Work

Children face the impacts of gender and economic inequality as soon as they start school. People in different education systems have noticed that teachers in Chile often encourage boys to focus on math and science, while girls do not often access these topics. This leads to the underrepresentation of Chilean women in STEM subjects and professional roles.

The quality of a child’s education also depends on whether their family can afford a private education, creating another economic divide. This means children from richer families are much more likely to get a better education, better grades and a better job in the future than their peers with a lower socioeconomic status. Additionally, children in rural areas without internet access miss out on a lot of key learning – this was a big issue during COVID-19 lockdowns when all learning occurred online, leaving a lot of children unable to access the lessons they needed.

Student-led peaceful protests are a huge factor in changing the education systems in Chile: in 2019, high school students convinced the government to give discounts on public transport to school, and university students achieved free tuition for almost half the country. Many teachers and other workers in the education sector are also battling to give students better opportunities and more equality in their learning.

Infrastructure

Poor infrastructure in rural areas is a major issue in reducing poverty in Chile. While most urban areas are well equipped, there are many rural areas that struggle to access clean water, reliable electricity, internet connection and good health care. These areas are therefore separated from the modern economy, and the citizens have to travel longer distances and pay more money for any kind of medical help. This disproportionately affects poorer families who are struggling with the cost of living and a lack of resources.

 Improved transport infrastructure could have a big impact, by removing geographic barriers to economic activities. When travel is easier, businesses grow and more resources become available to people all over the country. As it stands, a lot of rural areas have challenges accessing these resources and end up in a poverty cycle. 

Progress Addressing Poverty in Chile

Over recent years, wages have been increasing and poverty has been decreasing, with GDP growth at 2.5% in 2024. The economic conditions of Chile are steadily improving, with help from organizations like the World Bank Group (WBG), which has supported the country’s development for more than 75 years with loans, insurance and technology. For example, the WBG is currently working on a project providing universal health care to Chileans, improving the efficiency of reliable medical care for the whole country. Families in rural areas often struggle to access hospitals and have to travel long distances only to receive very basic support. This project aims to relieve this issue and help more than half of Chile’s population by 2027.

However, poverty in Chile is still prevalent. The Chilean President, Gabriel Boric, stated, “We have reduced income poverty and multidimensional poverty to historic levels…but there are still so many people living in poverty. This is good news, but it is not news to celebrate, because the poor have to come first.” The government, as well as other global organizations, are still constantly and actively fighting to improve conditions for everyone suffering from poverty in Chile and begin to close the gap between the richest and poorest parts of the country.

– Maisy Brown

Maisy is based in Leeds, UK and focuses on Technology and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Migration to Brazil and Its Effects on the Economy

Migration to BrazilFrom 1870 to 1930, between two to three million immigrants resettled in Brazil. In the early days of migration to Brazil, most settlers were Europeans. However, toward the latter ’30s, Brazil saw a massive influx of Middle Eastern and Asian immigrants settle in various parts of the country. Due to the multiple types of settlers, Brazil has become known for its rich and diverse culture, which has spread across the country. With this, Brazil’s economy greatly benefited in the mid-2010s, seeing sizable economic growth. With fewer migrants coming in the 2020s, Brazil’s economy has dipped.

Economic Benefits

Immigration to Brazil has led to many economic benefits across the financial landscape. According to the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), when Brazil sees an increase in immigration, it could see up to a 35% increase in total imports. The IADB concluded through a specialized study that an increase in the Haitian population led to a 6% increase in exports to Haiti.

Brazil has also been the relocation destination of more than 100,000 Venezuelan refugees. Through a government initiative, the country relocated them to the border of Roraima, where they received access to proper housing, food and jobs. A 2021 follow-up survey of 2,000 Venezuelans found they took advantage of education and housing opportunities during their relocation, with eight in 10 adults securing employment or starting businesses.

Migrant Challenges

While migration to Brazil has brought people from all over the world, many struggle not with reaching the country but building a sustainable life once they arrive. Due to inadequate asylum procedures and limited proficiency in Portuguese, many migrants face challenges in their early days in Brazil.

Recognizing the inequality of opportunity for migrants in the Brazilian workforce, foreign agencies such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have looked to create initiatives in Brazil to immerse migrants into formal work.

Brazilians of Lebanese Descent

Home to the world’s largest Lebanese diaspora, Brazil is estimated to have between seven and 10 million people of descent, according to Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Migration from the Middle East, primarily Lebanon, began in 1870, deeply integrating Lebanese culture into Brazilian society. In August 2016, Michel Temer became Brazil’s first president of Lebanese ancestry. While many Lebanese migrants faced the same challenges and discrimination as today’s newcomers, at one point, 10% of the Brazilian Congress had Lebanese origins.

A Bright Future

Although migration to Brazil has been at a plateau in recent years, the previous and continued migration allows for the potential of a bright future for migrants and natives alike. Economic growth, along with migrants’ rights reform, opens the door for more migrants to enter Brazil. Despite challenges at the beginning of migrants’ journeys in Brazil, the work of government initiatives and foreign agencies gives hope for a bright future in Brazil.

– Naseem Rahman

Naseem is based in Staten Island, NY, USA and focuses on Business and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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A Short Guide to Higher Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Higher Education in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina (BIH), also referred to as the ‘Heart Shaped Country,’ is known for its natural beauty, diverse culture and kind-hearted people. However, its higher education system continues to face challenges due to the country’s complex political and economic history.

As of 2023, 45% of students who complete secondary education in Bosnia and Herzegovina enroll into tertiary education institutions. However, a decrease in enrollment has been a consistent trend over the past decade, with the current number of students being about 35,000 fewer than 10 years ago. This decrease is primarily due to young people leaving the country in order to seek out a better future, correlating with the fact that BIH had the second largest diaspora in 2020 as well as other issues that will be explored within this article. Here is information about the current issues with higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Fragmented Education System

Following the war in the 1900s, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (fBIH), Republika Srpska (RS) and the Brčko District divided BIH into separate regions. There are also 10 cantons within fBIH, each with its own Ministry of Education, that independently implements its own curriculum. Because of this, there is a very decentralized higher education system in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including languages like Cyrillic and Latin, and history like Serbian history in RS and and Bosniak-Croat history in fBIH.

Foreign Countries Not Recognizing Diplomas

European nations often do not recognize degrees in BIH, which makes it difficult for students to secure jobs or continue postgraduate studies worldwide. One of the reasons for this is that many universities in BIH include the word ‘international’ in their names, but they lack international accreditation, hence students are urged to conduct research before embarking upon higher educational journeys in BIH. The problem of the fragmented education system undermines Bosnian diplomas because it raises doubts whether they meet uniform quality standards. 

There are also weak quality assurance mechanisms. According to Eurydice, the accreditation process begins when Higher Education Institutions (HEI) prepare a self-evaluation report and submit it to the relevant authority. Then, an expert panel visits the site and conducts an assessment. The authority grants accreditation based on the panel’s recommendation and lists the HEI in the National Registry, which the Agency for Development of Higher Education and Quality Assurance manages. Unfortunately, due to the fragmented system, corrupt political involvement and capacity issues, these guidelines are not fully met, therefore raising questions about the validity of Bosnian diplomas. 

Limited Funding

Higher education institutions receive financing through different budgets depending on the region. In RS, the entity budget, which the Ministry of Education and Culture RS manages, funds higher education. Meanwhile, in fBIH, there are cantonal budgets that cantonal ministries of culture manage which fund higher education. There is no state- level funding for higher education, resulting in 13 separate budgets across the country. Furthermore, there is a lack of strategic planning of how to spend the budget, alongside no accountability – funds therefore do not need to be allocated effectively and higher education institutions are not legally required to justify their spending.

Another issue with higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina along the lines of finance is the effect that poverty has on those who wish to pursue university studies. According to Study Abroad Aide, tuition fees in BIH can range from as little as 440 BAM (approx. £200 or $250) to 18,400 BAM (approx. £9,200 or $11,360). While this is significantly cheaper than tuition fees in the U.K. or the U.S., for citizens living there, this can unfortunately be an unrealistic amount. For example, almost a third of children between the ages of 5 and 15 in BIH are at risk of poverty due to the inadequate implementation of the 2015-2018 Action Plan for Children.

Furthermore, the COVID- 19 crisis had a detrimental impact on poverty levels in BIH. It was estimated that poverty would rise from 11.8% to as high as 14.6% from 2019 to 2020. These factors affect higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina in that students may simply not be able to afford tuition fees, preventing them from following the path of university and higher education. Here are some progressions that higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina has made.

Financial Support

While most students are required to attend university on a self financed basis, The Ministry of Education and Culture in RS and the cantonal ministries of education in FBiH provide scholarships for those who meet the qualifications. This does not take into account students’ background or social status, allowing anyone to qualify, given that they pass the entry exam. Furthermore, BIH also offers fully-funded scholarships to international students to excellent universities, such as the University of Banja Luka and the University of Sarajevo, if students are able to demonstrate excellent academic achievement and financial needs.

Not only does this open up opportunities for students to explore the rich history and indulge in the flavorful culture of, but it also tackles the issue of ‘brain drain.’ ‘Brain drain’ describes young talent leaving BIH due to the futile future they will have if they remain. Welcoming more international students allows talented young people to find opportunities within Bosnia, hence tackling the problem of brain drain.

The Bologna Process

The Bologna Process is a European higher education reform initiative aimed at creating a cohesive and compatible system of higher education across Europe, which BIH has been a member of since 2003. Because the Bologna Process aims to create an education system within Europe that everyone adheres to, this means that it will increase the validity that Bosnian degrees have across Europe. It has specifically introduced the three-cycle degree structure and established quality assurance mechanisms, but any positive outcomes of the Bologna Project have been overshadowed by how the students affected feel about it.

A study conducted with 81 students from the English Literature and Language departments in the universities of Tuzla and Banja Luka claimed that the students did not perceive it that way. About 40% of students claimed that they believed the Bologna Process was “forcing them to study constantly” with 62% of students saying they felt it was incomplete or misapplied. This can unfortunately be deemed as true due to the underfunding of higher education. The simplest things, such as old classrooms and outdated technology, can prevent higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Bologna Project from reaching their full potential. 

Recommended Changes

While there has been no news of significant changes that the Bosnian government is bringing about to higher education, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation has presented recommended action. These include:

  • Ensuring a fully functional system for the accreditation of higher education institutions throughout the country, which lies with the responsibilities of education authorities and academia. This should be an immediate priority.
  • Ensuring justified funding for education, including establishing a needs-based coefficient for pupils with disabilities. This should be a medium-term priority.
  • Reforming initial teacher education needs, in line with developed qualification and occupational standards and developing a Vocational Education and Training Strategy that addresses the needs of the labor market. This should be a long term priority, which lies with the responsibilities of APOSO and the education authorities, national education specialists and NGOs and teachers and parents’ organizations.

To summarize, decentralized education, limited funding and unrecognized diplomas are the main causes of the pitfalls in higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, there has been progress with the implementation of scholarships and elements of the Bologna Project, although there is still a way to go to further improve access to higher education in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

– Emina Bolic

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

Photo: Flickr

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Exploring the Economic Impact of Renewable Energy in Mali

Renewable Energy in Mali
Many citizens in Mali, a Sub-Saharan desert country in Africa with a population of almost 24.5 million, struggle to afford energy, and simmer in poverty. In 2022, poverty rates hit 19.1%, meaning almost 20% of their population makes less than $2.15 a day. With their growing impoverishment, their government has decided to take initiative and implement renewable energy in Mali. Not only does renewable energy create a cheaper alternative for those who cannot otherwise afford it, but it also creates jobs for those who need them. A staggering 52% of the population has access to electricity, less than 5%  have access to clean cooking, and as of 2023, the unemployment rate sits at 3.01%.

What is Renewable Energy?

In general terms, renewable energy is harnessed power that is derived from a continuously and naturally replenishable source, and is often a carbon-free source. Renewable energy sources include: 

  • Hydropower
  • Wind Power
  • Biomass
  • Solar Energy

All of these create a form of electricity.

Today, electricity greatly enhances people’s lives, which they use for everything from evening illumination to laundry, food preparation, factory operation and even things like international communication. It is essential for raising living standards, promoting economic growth and reducing poverty.

How Does Renewable Energy Affect Mali?

Currently in Mali, the average lifespan is only 59 years. On average, 97 newborns out of 1,000 pass away before they turn five. About 80% of Malians lack proper sanitation, and many do not have access to safe drinking water. The population is growing at a pace of 3.2% each year, and 47% of Malians are under the age of 15.

In 2006, Mali’s government implemented the National Energy Policy, which is supported by its five main objectives:

  • Improving access to energy
  • The rational use of existing energy sources
  • The efficient use of existing natural resources to produce energy
  • Sustainable use of biomass resources through the conservation and protection of forests
  • Strengthening government capacity and streamlining administrative procedures within the energy sector

These objectives aid in getting more electricity access across the continent, and also has the potential to create employment opportunities across the globe. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), transitioning to renewable energy in Mali is expected to “create 40 million additional jobs in the energy sector by 2050, with 18 million more jobs globally in renewables alone.”

Actions That Mali is Taking

Mali already has many jobs created for its citizens from these renewable energy projects. For example, in 2019, “ECREEE supported the Government of Mali in 2015 to develop a BOOT model tender for the development of grid-connected renewable energy projects.” From this BOOT (Build, Own, Operate, Transfer) model, a whopping 450 jobs emerged in Mali across the duration of the project.

The imminent arrival of these jobs can provide skills to allow workers to obtain future employment once it becomes available. However, in order for this initiative to work, there are several things being prioritized starting at early ages. With aid and funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the Education Development Center (EDC) has been able to provide a lot of help to the youthful Malians through the PAJE-Nièta— the Mali Out-of-School Youth project. These are the main pursuits of the project:

  • Give young people access to basic education, training in entrepreneurship and technical instruction in the service and agro-pastoral sectors
  • Teach volunteers to conduct business and basic education classes and to support program participants as they pursue entrepreneurship
  • Teach young people how to use Stepping Stone, an app that the EDC created, to access basic education lessons on mobile devices
  • Teach young people to start internal lending and savings organizations to support social and corporate loans
  • Boost the current youth associations’ organizational capabilities to oversee and carry out project operations

Looking Ahead

In order to produce employees for future jobs, once renewable energy projects reach completion, creating skilled workers from the inexperienced youth is key to furthering the continent’s progression. Renewable projects in Mali will likely develop the country’s economy, improving the conditions its citizens live in.

– Taylor Naquin

Taylor is based in Gilbert, AZ , USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty in Jamaica: The World Bank Renovates Kingston’s Waterfront

Poverty in jamaicaOn October 18, 2024, Jamaica’s government and the World Bank announced a $12 million investment to renovate Kingston’s Waterfront. The project aims to boost tourism, improve job accessibility and reduce poverty in Jamaica. This development is promising for Jamaica, where poverty in the area has made it challenging for many residents to sustain themselves.

The revitalized Waterfront has the potential to invigorate the local economy. Nigel Clarke, former Jamaica’s Minister of Finance and Public Service, commented: “This government is creating public spaces to serve the Jamaican people. This will revitalize downtown Kingston.”

The Timeline for Waterfront Renovations

Phases one and two of the Kingston Waterfront Improvement Project, known as KIWI, will run from 2024 to 2030. The project’s first phase will fund the creation of a multi-use park along Kingston’s waterfront. It will feature recreational amenities like bike paths, playgrounds, sports fields, street furniture and landscaped areas.

The second phase will “focus on the park’s construction, small-scale infrastructure works and urban upgrading.” The total amount that the budget covers for both phases is approximately $40 million. This large sum will work to reestablish Jamaica’s economy by its inherent benefit to the community. This could benefit around 700,000 Jamaicans by providing them with new job opportunities in the tourism sector, retail or small business booths in downtown Jamaica.

Kingston’s Waterfront Statistics and Employment Rate

In September 2022, Jamaica’s economic enrichment statistics from tourism indicate how urbanization of Kingston’s waterfront has the potential to further fortify its economy. Tourism keeps Jamaica involved in foreign commerce, building its independent value. Statistically, tourism in Jamaica directly employs 175,000 Jamaicans and indirectly employs around 354,000.

Professor Lloyd Webber highlighted tourism’s necessity in Jamaica by saying that consistent efforts must be made toward the Jamaican economy to maintain Jamaica’s status as a tourism hotspot. The Kingston Waterfront would do just that, building jobs, a more bustling economy and community cohesion, which would mitigate crime rates inherently.

Long-Term Jobs Create Long-Term Solutions for Islanders

While Jamaica is known as a bustling island nation, it faces significant socioeconomic challenges, including poverty and crime. According to the World Bank, approximately 17% of Jamaica’s population lives in poverty, with low-quality jobs leaving many Jamaicans vulnerable to economic shocks.

According to Graeme Young, “a Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow,” the lack of sustainable jobs makes it difficult for Jamaicans to afford nutritious food. Young argued that government policies fail to address the root issue: supply and demand. Young also highlighted Kingston’s primary challenges: low sales and insufficient customers.

Therefore, the renovation of Kingston’s Waterfront presents an opportunity to rebuild the economy, creating a vibrant, safe environment that benefits tourists and locals alike, whilst reducing poverty in Jamaica.

– Madeline Star Heintz

Madeline is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Poverty in Southeastern Turkey: A Brighter Future

A Brighter Future for the Southeastern Regions of TurkeyThe southeastern regions of Turkey face significant challenges as the poorest part of the country, struggling with underdevelopment and ethnic tensions. Recent developments, however, provide hope for a revitalized future in this historically rich area. The government plans to invest $14 billion in the region, a move aimed at reducing poverty and creating economic opportunities. Coupled with the normalization of relations with post-Assad Syria and Kurdish groups, this could transform the area and stimulate growth. This investment focuses on developing agricultural infrastructure to bolster the regional economy. Officials expect the initiative to create more than 500,000 jobs, offering a much-needed boost to local livelihoods.

Poverty in Southeastern Turkey and the GAP Project

Southeastern Anatolia ranks among Turkey’s regions with the lowest average income. Despite limited research on poverty in the region, existing studies indicate that conditions have seen little improvement since the early 2000s. The $14 billion investment aims to partially fund the Southeastern Anatolia Project (GAP) with the hopes it can continue its construction of needed infrastructure.

The GAP project was launched in the 70s as a region-wide investment project to provide the energy and water infrastructure to support an economic boom. However, throughout its history, the project continues to falter in its aims of revitalization. With renewed government support, the region now has a chance to attract further investment and drive sustainable development.

Insights from Mardin

The city of Mardin illustrates many of the challenges facing southeastern Turkey. This ancient city, which dates back to the Neo-Assyrian period, highlights the region’s rich history and its socioeconomic struggles. Mardin suffers from one of the country’s highest relative at-risk-of-poverty rates at 14.4%.

In 2021, Dr. Nurdan Atalay conducted ethnographic research in Mardin, revealing how top-down financialization and investment strategies exacerbate economic inequality and limit employment opportunities for women. In her book chapter, she noted, “…the women in this neighborhood have very limited opportunities to change their position in society… The impending economic crisis has the potential to worsen their situation.”

Mardin also accommodates a large population of refugees who fled Syria’s civil war and the 2023 earthquakes. More than 88,000 Syrian refugees live in the city, contending with the trauma of displacement and the strain on local resources. Reports detail the economic burden that border cities faced during the Syrian conflict. With the end of Assad’s rule, many refugees now look toward a hopeful future and the possibility of returning home.

The Potential of Tourism

Neighboring political progress isn’t the only cause for optimism in southeastern Turkey. The tourism industry holds immense potential to reduce poverty in the region. This area, rich in historical monuments and natural beauty, stands poised for economic growth if supported by infrastructure and investment.

The 1982 Tourism Incentives Act excluded southeastern Turkey, denying the region the development needed for a thriving tourism sector. Despite this, cities like Mardin actively seek to expand their tourism potential. Research indicates that Mardin’s residents support tourism growth, which promises to benefit both urban and rural communities.

In 2023, Mardin welcomed nearly 650,000 tourists, reflecting the industry’s growing role in the local economy. By fostering tourism, southeastern Turkey can unlock new opportunities for sustainable development and cultural preservation.

A New Chapter for Southeastern Turkey

With the government’s $14 billion investment and the prospect of peace in Syria, poverty in southeastern Turkey faces a turning point. The region’s lack of infrastructure has long created a cycle of poverty and underdevelopment. This new funding and strategic focus could break that cycle, paving the way for meaningful progress and prosperity.

– Charley Dennis

Charley is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr