Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

, ,

How IFAD Fights Rural Poverty in Honduras

Rural Poverty in Honduras
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Honduran government have cooperated for many years to fight rural poverty in Honduras. The country is largely agrarian, with every one in four citizens employed in agriculture, and is considered a low to middle-income country. With nearly half the population living on less than $6.15 a day, Honduras is the poorest country in Central America, and the second poorest behind Haiti in Latin America.

Adding to Honduras’s perennial issues are the frequent severe weather events and climate disasters that plague the country’s rural infrastructure. For instance, a 2019 drought decimated the land’s bean and corn crops, creating widespread food insecurity for Honduran citizens. The following year, hurricanes Eta and Iota affected more than 400,000 citizens and caused more than $2 billion in damage.

Since 1979, the IFAD has worked with Honduras to alleviate rural poverty, provide financing to rural farmers and build systems and infrastructure that support small, independent agriculture. This article will explore IFAD’s current program benefiting farmers, the Project for the Economic and Social Inclusion of Small Rural Producers in Northeast Honduras (PROINORTE) and the organizational framework, the Country Strategic Opportunities Programme (COSOP), that currently guides IFAD’s operations in Honduras. The article will also examine one of IFAD’s former successes in the country to demonstrate how COSOP and PROINORTE will help alleviate rural poverty in Honduras.

About IFAD

Founded in 1977 in response to global food shortages, IFAD is a United Nations (U.N.) agency dedicated to addressing rural poverty. The agency provides funding, training and investment to rural communities to strengthen small-scale agribusiness and the overall well-being of rural populations. IFAD partners with businesses, corporations, international organizations and governments to secure funding for grants and low-interest loans directed toward rural farmers.

IFAD is guided by its Country Strategic Opportunities Programme 2020-2025 (COSOP) in Honduras. COSOP is an institutional framework that outlines the rules of engagement for IFAD’s involvement in Honduras. It defines the specific areas where individual IFAD projects should concentrate their efforts and outlines the strategic objectives the organization aims to accomplish.

Specifically, COSOP lists two objectives that guide Honduran IFAD projects. The first focuses on increasing rural productivity and building sustainable food systems. This goal not only aims to help local rural farmers improve their business practices, but also strives to improve rural Honduran communities’ social and physical health. The second objective aims to boost rural employment in Honduras by helping producers access markets and funding.

PROINORTE: Building Small-Scale Farming Businesses

Under the guiding framework of COSOP, IFAD has created two projects to help reduce rural poverty in Honduras, the Project for Competitiveness and Sustainable Development in the South-Western Border Region (PRO-LENCA) and the Project for the Economic and Social Inclusion of Small Rural Producers in Northeast Honduras (PROINORTE). PRO-LENCA reached completion in 2023 and will be discussed in the next section below.

PROINORTE is the only IFAD program currently open in Honduras. The program operates in the northeast region of Honduras, where 59% of households live in poverty. Like its guiding framework, COSOP, PROINORTE aims to improve the productive and marketing capabilities of small rural farmers and to foster sustainable business practices and lifestyles in rural communities. Additionally, the program looks to help farmers build resilience against Honduras’ frequent climate disasters and economic volatility.

PROINORTE includes three areas of activity or “components.” Component 1 helps farmers develop organizational frameworks, build partnerships between businesses and producers, and bolster entrepreneurial agrarian activity. Meanwhile, component 2 provides financing and implementation of plans put forth by local producers and businesses. Component 3 monitors PROINORTE’s progress and ensures that goals are met.

PROINORTE, rather than providing emergency relief or assistance, works to develop small-scale, subsistence-level farms into functioning, free-market businesses. By providing professional training and investment, the project seeks to connect agrarian farmers with markets to sell their products, thereby increasing rural employment and living standards. The project has an estimated total cost of $46.48 million, with funding provided by the IFAD, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Honduran government and local beneficiaries in Honduras.

Past Successes

To understand how PROINORTE will positively impact northeastern Honduran communities, it is important to examine IFAD’s past successes in the country. PRO-LENCA, a program similar to PROINORTE but located in the southwestern region of Honduras, wrapped up in 2023. Like PROINORTE, PRO-LENCA sought to reduce rural poverty in Honduras by investing in and developing local businesses and agriculture.

According to IFAD documents, PRO-LENCA was largely successful, benefiting 59,000 Honduran citizens and creating more than 1,800 jobs in the area. The program reached nearly all of the households it set out to help, with the incomes of these impacted households rising by almost 50%. Moreover, for every dollar invested in PRO-LENCA, $2.40 was created in economic benefits for rural Hondurans in the target region. Additionally, the project increased youth and female employment in southwest Honduras and decreased food insecurity.

Looking Forward

While it is too early to assess PROINORTE’s economic impact, the benefits that PRO-LENCA created paint a positive future. PRO-LENCA worked to build organizational capabilities and link rural businesses to consumer markets. The hope is that PROINORTE will repeat this program’s success in Honduras’ northeast region. Guided by COSOP, PROINORTE looks to continue IFAD’s track record of reducing rural poverty in Honduras. By helping rural farmers turn their small-scale agriculture into full-fledged businesses, PROINORTE will stimulate rural economies and help Honduran farmers build resilient food systems.

– Charles Citron

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

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Vietnam’s Transformed Economy: The Rice Revolution

Vietnam's Transformed Economy: The Rice RevolutionIn recent history, Vietnam—a country once associated with war and humanitarian crises—has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most resilient and rapidly developing economies. Through agricultural innovation and strategic reforms, millions have been lifted out of poverty. At the heart of this revival is Vietnam’s rice sector, which has secured food security and turned the country into a global exporting powerhouse.

From Crisis to Recovery

Following the end of the Vietnam War in 1975, the country faced profound challenges. Widespread poverty, food shortages, devastated infrastructure and a stagnant economy threatened national survival. Humanitarian aid from countries like the United Kingdom (U.K.), Australia, Japan and the United States (U.S.) helped avert famine. The turning point came with the launch of Doi Moi in 1986—an economic and political reform policy initiated by the Communist Party. Doi Moi shifted Vietnam’s centrally planned economy toward a more market-oriented system, unlocking the potential of its agricultural sector, especially rice production.

Rice Revolution Powers Rural Prosperity

According to the Observatory of Economic Complexity (OEC), Vietnam ranks as the world’s third-largest rice exporter out of 184 countries. In 2023 alone, the country exported $3.88 billion of rice, mainly to the Philippines, Indonesia, China, Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Vietnam supplies more than 7 million tons annually to countries across Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Vietnam’s transformed economy depends on the Mekong Delta, often called the “Rice Bowl of Vietnam,” producing more than half of the country’s rice, accounting for 95% of its exports.

The government’s dismantling of the collective farming system and its return of land-use rights to households drove this transformation. As Dr. Matthew Morell, Director General of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), explained: “Vietnam contributes more than 6% of global rice production. Promoting good agricultural practices such as the ‘1 Must Do, 5 Reductions’ will help farmers reduce pesticide use and at the same time increase productivity toward sustainable rice production and gradually improve the brand of Vietnam rice.”

The government also heavily invested in rural infrastructure. Roads and electricity are used by almost 100% of the population, enabling farmers to access markets efficiently. This helped lift millions out of poverty, especially in rural provinces such as A Giang, Dong Thap and Kien Giang. During the COVID-19 pandemic, domestic rice production ensured national food security and reinforced Vietnam’s role in global food supply chains.

Beyond Agriculture: A Diversified Economy

While agriculture remains central, Vietnam has broadened its economy to include manufacturing, services and technology. The country has become a preferred destination for foreign investment in electronics and textiles, with tech companies like Samsung, Intel and LG establishing operations since 2008. In 2023, Vietnam launched its first homegrown electric vehicle brand, Vinfast, which began exporting to North America and Europe.

The Road Ahead

Vietnam’s transformed economy and current economic trajectory illustrate how agricultural reform, infrastructure investment and market liberalization can contribute to poverty reduction. Rice production remains a central driver of development, while diversification into manufacturing and technology has expanded economic opportunities. As the country aims for upper-middle-income status by 2030, ongoing efforts can potentially address rural-urban inequality, adapt to urbanization pressures and navigate shifting global dynamics. Continued focus on inclusive growth and structural reforms could shape the next phase of Vietnam’s development.

– Sebastian Llerena

Sebastian is based in Edison, NJ, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

How the MOBILIST Program Promotes Sustainable Development

 

How the MOBILIST Programme Promotes Sustainable Development
The Mobilising Institutional Capital Through Listed Product Structures (MOBILIST) program connects global investors to investment products that promote sustainable development in developing countries. In February 2025, the United Kingdom (U.K.) announced up to an additional £100 million in funding for the program. This funding expands the program’s ability to mobilize more investment and strengthen its partnerships with entities such as Thai Credit Bank and InfraCredit.

The MOBILIST Program

The U.K.’s MOBILIST program promotes sustainable development by identifying investment products that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and removing obstacles that prevent those products from listing on public exchanges. MOBILIST helps overcome these challenges by offering expertise, hands-on assistance and government backing. This approach improves investor confidence and funding access for SDG-aligned ventures.

The SDGs, adopted by the United Nations (U.N.) in 2015, are a set of 17, wide-ranging targets that aim to achieve long-lasting progress. The SDGs operate on the premise that goals such as ending poverty must align with other objectives, including economic growth and gender equality. By supporting investment solutions that promote the SDGs, MOBILIST brings these products more funding, widening their impact.

The U.K. expects its £100 million funding pledge to attract between £400 million and £600 million in investments. Since its 2021 launch, the MOBILIST program has assisted the public listing of investment products such as the Thai Credit Bank and InfraCredit. 

The Thai Credit Bank

On Feb. 9, 2024, the Thai Credit Bank completed its public listing with support from the MOBILIST program. The bank provides loans to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These enterprises are crucial to Thailand’s economy but have difficulty obtaining the funding necessary to grow. Through funding MSMEs, the bank supports the SDG of economic growth, therefore decreasing poverty and raising standards of living.

The Thai Credit Bank will use the profit from its public listing to further finance MSMEs, specifically focusing on businesses in rural areas and those owned by women. As an essential investor, MOBILIST was key in making the IPO possible. The expansion of this SDG-promoting product is an example of how the program promotes sustainable development. 

Infracredit in Nigeria

The Nigerian-based company, InfraCredit, de-risks investing in Nigerian infrastructure projects by providing credit guarantees to investors. Nigeria needs more than $2.3 trillion from 2021 to 2043 to close its infrastructure gap. InfraCredit’s model supports job creation, infrastructure development and clean energy growth, aligning with multiple SDGs.

On April 14, 2025, MOBILIST announced its investment of $6 million to support InfraCredit’s public listing on NASD. The listing attracted local institutional investors, including pension funds. Subsequently, InfraCredit obtained two investments from pension funds since its NASD listing.  

MOBILIST’s investment also supports InfraCredit’s movement toward investing in renewable energy. Its focus on promoting infrastructure, creating jobs, increasing quality of life and its green movement reflects the SDG of clean energy.

Looking Ahead

MOBILIST’s support for Thai Credit Bank and InfraCredit has strengthened their financial reach and visibility. With the U.K.’s additional investment, more companies that align with the SDGs could gain access to capital markets. The program continues to widen its impact by helping sustainable development-focused businesses scale across emerging economies.

– Madison Fetch

Madison is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Peru’s JUNTOS Program Expansion

Peru’s JUNTOS programPeru’s JUNTOS program was launched in 2005 to lift large segments of the population from food poverty and reduce financial burdens in accessing essential resources. Since then, the program has expanded significantly, offering cash transfers and support in education and women’s welfare. By 2022, JUNTOS had developed more than six operating programs and reached more than 700,000 households in Peru. Here’s how JUNTOS has evolved, what it aims to achieve and how it continues to support poverty reduction efforts in Peru.

What Is JUNTOS?

JUNTOS supports impoverished households in most Peruvian districts, including some Indigenous Amazon communities. In 2005, roughly 40% of Peru’s population lived below the poverty line without a structured national solution. The government introduced cash transfers to improve access to nutrition and later expanded the program to cover health care and education.

JUNTOS provides funding through three pillars:

  • Restitution of fundamental rights

  • Promotion of productive development

  • Social safety net support

These pillars helped more than 85% of Peru’s population access direct cash transfers. The program targets pregnant women, vulnerable women and children ages 0 to 19.

Development of JUNTOS

JUNTOS began expanding in 2009 with its first additional initiative: the Promotion of Savings Culture (2009–2012). This success led to other programs, including Financial Education (2012), Technology Platforms for Financial Inclusion (2014–2015) and We Learn Better Together (2017–present). In 2022, JUNTOS expanded further to ensure that the majority of districts across Peru could access all available benefits.

Outcomes and Success of JUNTOS

Over two decades, Peru’s JUNTOS program has delivered results that mark significant progress in the country’s fight against poverty. In 2022, more than 703,000 households received cash transfers and essential nutrition support. Of Peru’s 1,890 districts, 1,840 gained direct access to JUNTOS services. Among the recipients were 1.5 million vulnerable women and children.

Compared to conditions in 2005, these outcomes represent major strides in reducing malnutrition, increasing school participation and improving financial literacy. Reports also highlight notable improvements in children’s development, especially cognitive growth among those exposed to the program between the ages of 0 and 4. Increased access to nutrients contributed to significant reductions in stunting among young children.

Children who accessed JUNTOS benefits early in life showed stronger developmental outcomes, suggesting that age plays a key role in the program’s long-term success. JUNTOS’ success can be attributed to its emphasis on administrative adaptability and its responsiveness to local contexts. The program’s integration with local health and education providers has ensured smoother delivery of services, while inter-agency collaboration has strengthened accountability and monitoring mechanisms. Moreover, community participation—especially involving women—has reinforced trust and boosted enrollment among marginalized groups.

Moving Forward

Peru’s JUNTOS program has supported the country’s most vulnerable populations with consistent, effective interventions. Free cash transfers improved the lives of nearly 2 million people, while expanded programs enhanced the development and well-being of children and families. JUNTOS stands as an example of how social protection programs could combat extreme poverty on a national scale.

– Joel Raymer

Joel is based in Derby, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Local Solutions Drive Madagascar’s Poverty Solutions

Madagascar's poverty solutionsMadagascar, the world’s fifth-largest island, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and natural resources. Yet, the country faces persistent poverty, with 75% of its population living below the national poverty line as of 2022. Rural areas are particularly affected, with poverty rates reaching 79.9%. Political instability, limited infrastructure and changing weather patterns destabilize the region and exacerbate the situation.

Battling Hunger and Malnutrition

Since 2019, the southern regions of Madagascar have been grappling with severe droughts, leading to famine-like conditions. Approximately 1.3 million people are food insecure, with malnutrition rates among children under 5 doubling in recent years. In response, the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have collaborated to deliver life-saving nutrition supplies, such as Plumpy’Sup, to malnourished children in remote areas. Innovative methods, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems, have been employed to reach isolated communities.  

Madagascar’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes it vulnerable to the harsh climate. Prolonged droughts have devastated crops, leading to food shortages and economic hardship. To combat this, Madagascar’s poverty solutions include programs promoting climate-smart agriculture. These initiatives teach farmers sustainable practices, such as using drought-resistant crops and mulching, to improve food security and protect the environment. 

International Support and Development Projects

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) committed $22.1 million to support Madagascar’s southern regions through projects like Vikina and Harea. These initiatives aim to build resilience, improve food security and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, USAID’s Mikajy project focuses on linking biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods. By supporting community-based enterprises and introducing conservation farming, the project helps communities achieve economic growth while preserving natural resources.

In 2023, the World Bank approved a $250 million credit to expand access to social protection for extremely poor households across all 23 regions of Madagascar. The initiative aims to strengthen the national safety net system and improve household resilience to economic and climate-related shocks. In the same year, the World Bank committed an additional $400 million to the Digital and Energy Connectivity for Inclusion in Madagascar Project (DECIM). This program aims to double the country’s energy access from 33.7% to 67% and expand internet connectivity by reaching 3.4 million new users. The investment supports long-term development by promoting digital inclusion, clean energy and infrastructure growth.

Community-Driven Initiatives

Local communities are also taking action in Madagascar’s poverty solutions by preserving their lush forests. Reforestation projects, such as those by Eden Reforestation Projects, aim to restore mangroves and upland forests while providing both environmental benefits and employment opportunities.  In the Makay region, eco-tourism initiatives promote low-impact tourism, generating income for local communities while funding conservation efforts. Microfinance programs, like those supported by Money for Madagascar, empower individuals to start small businesses, fostering economic independence and community development. 

Looking Ahead

By focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience and economic empowerment, Madagascar continues to build a path toward resilience and improved well-being for its people.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Solidarity Income: Building Futures With Cash Transfers

Solidarity IncomeMillions of Colombian citizens live in abject poverty. As of 2022, the overall poverty rate was approximately 37%. However, the country has significantly improved in decreasing poverty over the past few decades, mainly due to its cash transfer programs, which provide regular cash assistance to low-income families.

Programs such as Families in Action, Youth in Action and Solidarity Income have proven imperative in promoting youth education and improving the health and well-being of citizens. They also provide emergency financial assistance. The nation has implemented these initiatives to support vulnerable communities in achieving long-term economic stability and building futures in Colombia.

Families in Action

In 2000, Colombia started its main conditional cash transfer program, Families in Action. The program aims to assist low-income families with consistent financial support if they meet specific conditions. These include ensuring their children attend school regularly and get routine health checkups for children aged less than 5.

Since its inception, Families in Action has helped around 2.7 million Colombian families and about 10 million people. The program has increased the use of preventive health care services. More families are taking their children to growth and development check-ups and ensuring increased diversity in rural children’s diet. The program aims to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty and help future generations lead successful lives by building futures in Colombia.

The program is supported by numerous international agencies such as the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). These influential partners ensure that the program is running smoothly and has enough funding, which is crucial to continued success.

Youth in Action

Another initiative launched by the Colombian government in 2001 is Youth in Action. Aimed at easing the challenges many low-income youth face during their transition to adulthood, the program supports individuals aged 14 to 28 in college or attending vocational training programs. It provides regular cash payments to eligible students, which help pay for important expenses such as transportation, school supplies and housing. The main goal is to reduce youth unemployment and help students stay in school.

The initiative has been able to help approximately 300,000 young people through job training in semi-skilled trades, particularly in major cities where many struggle with unemployment. The program also connects these students with essential career services and job placement programs, guaranteeing their education leads to future opportunities.

The program has helped increase earnings and employment. For example, earnings for women increased by almost $18 per month (at the time of the evaluation). Additionally, 20% of program beneficiaries work in government-recognized firms, compared with 17.4% of other women. Overall, Youth in Action is an investment in Colombia’s future workforce and a strategic tool for building futures in Colombia through a fairer society.

Solidarity Income

Social inequalities among informal workers and families excluded from traditional social safety nets were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In response, the government launched Solidarity Income in 2020 to provide unconditional cash transfers to support families not protected by other assistance initiatives.

Unlike Families in Action, Solidarity Income has no conditions. Instead, it is specifically designed to quickly help struggling people who lost jobs and could not afford food during the pandemic. The program used data from government databases and financial institutions to pinpoint exact households, allowing them to send money, even to those in remote areas.

In only a few years, the initiative reached more than three million families, with most in extreme poverty. An example is Heidy Barrera, who said, “this money will allow me to buy food for my household.” Solidarity Income was crucial during the height of the pandemic, when many other forms of financial support were unavailable.

Conclusion

Colombia’s Families in Action, Youth in Action and Solidarity Income programs show the impact of how organized cash transfer programs can positively influence millions of lives. These initiatives provide short-term relief and long-term development by helping people grow through education and health, which are essential in preventing regression and help build futures in Colombia. Strengthening and expanding these programs will be of utmost importance to create a more equitable society for the future generation of Colombians.

– Rafe Photopoulos

Rafe is based in Gainesville, FL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

Venezuela’s Anti-NGO Law Looms: 2 Organizations Fighting Back

Venezuela’s Anti-NGO LawVenezuela is one of the most disadvantaged countries in the world, with poverty rates of more than 91%. Currently, there is an influx of Venezuelan immigrants seeking refuge in neighboring countries. According to the U.N., almost 8 million Venezuelans have left the country since 2014 due to “rampant violence,” along with “inflation, gang-warfare, soaring crime rates, …shortages of food, medicine and essential services.” With the amount of human rights concerns concentrated in the area, Venezuelan citizens are in desperate need of additional support. However, with the passing of the Law for the Control, Regularization, Operations and Financing of Non-Governmental and Related Organizations, informally known as Venezuela’s anti-NGO law, the government seems set on making it as difficult as possible for them to access the life-saving services provided by non-governmental organizations.

According to Amnesty International, “The approval of this law aims to keep Venezuelan civil society from continuing to stand alongside victims [of poverty, violent crime, et cetera] and providing assistance in ways that authorities are unable to.” In this time of uncertainty, it is more important than ever to support organizations that are challenging the country’s tyrannous government.

Hogar Bambi Venezuela

Founded in 1992, Hogar Bambi Venezuela focuses on providing care to children and youth misplaced from their families “due to abuse, mistreatment or economic hardship.” The organization organizes “temporary, substitute” homes for the children, then facilitates their return to their families – or the adoption process, if the first option is not feasible.

American-based organization Bambi International Foundation is a long-time supporter of Hogar Bambi Venezuela. It funds various projects to support the Venezuelan NGO in its mission to care for displaced minors.

One project it completed in recent years was the purchase of a private vehicle. Before purchasing the vehicle, staff members of Hogar Bambi were unable to transport all of the children to necessary medical appointments due to the unreliability of the Venezuelan public transportation system. The project helped Hogar Bambi transport the children for their medical appointments and necessary services such as cardiology, dermatology, laboratory, surgical examinations, etc.

Bambi International Foundation also facilitates the building and renovation of structures to house them. In 2020, it raised nearly $6,000 towards renovating and installing electricity in a building housing 36 displaced Venezuelan infants.

Currently, Bambi International Foundation is campaigning for a new cause – the Sports and Recreation for Children and Adolescents Deprived of a Family project. It is currently 40% of the way to completing its goal of raising $25,000 to provide at-risk Venezuelan youth with access to recreational activities such as team sports, swimming lessons and various outdoor adventures.

Fundacion Jacinto Convit

Inspired by the work and values of Doctor Jacinto Convit, Fundacion Jacinto Convit has been working for 13 years to make health services and education accessible throughout Venezuela. The organization funds “scientific research, healthcare programs, and educational and community projects, through a multidisciplinary team, to contribute to the well-being of the most vulnerable populations and to the country’s social development.”

Fundacion Jacinto Convit has made revolutionary strides in medicine, particularly in making cancer treatment more accessible. One project it currently has in development is ContiVax – an immunotherapy treatment that targets breast cancer. The treatment is currently being put through clinical trials throughout the Americas and Europe, and will hopefully prove to be a safe, effective, low-cost treatment option for patients who either can not afford or cannot access chemotherapy, or prefer an alternative for any reason.

In addition to ContiVax, the NGO  focuses on providing a “highly specialized free medical assistance service for the molecular diagnosis of malignant neoplastic diseases (such as leukemia and some solid tumors) and infectious diseases (mainly HIV)” through their Molecular Diagnostic Unit, hopefully contributing “to the improvement of mortality and morbidity rates in patients with some types of cancer.”

Fundacion Jacinto Convit also focuses on educating Venezuelan youth. One of its educational programs, Values Through Science, facilitates talks, lessons, film screenings, and educational activities at schools, conferences, and other community spaces. The project is intended to encourage Venezuelan youth to develop an interest in the sciences while promoting critical thought, curiosity, and teamwork.

Venezuela’s Anti-NGO Law: In Conclusion

Although the passing of Venezuela’s anti-NGO law seems intent on preventing the country’s needy from accessing the life-saving services that they require, the country’s NGOs are not giving up.

– Helena Birbrower

Helena is based in Davis, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

WHO and Africa CDC Work To Curb the Spread of Mpox in Africa

Mpox in AfricaIn August 2024, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) declared that Mpox infections had become a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS). To combat the spread, the Africa CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) created a Joint Continental Preparedness and Response plan.

The original plan garnered positive results but not at the rate required to diminish the growth of the infection fully. Together, the Africa CDC and WHO are reworking the plan, hoping to accomplish the goals laid out.

Mpox in Africa

When the original plan was created in 2024, the spread of the disease occurred rapidly from sexual or close contact. It began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and quickly traveled to Burundi, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. Today, Mpox is present in 28 countries worldwide. However, outside of Africa, the cases are travel-related and rare.

Inside Africa, it is reported to have spread to the Republic of the Congo, South Africa, South Sudan, the Republic of Tanzania and Zambia. Prior to the PCEHS declaration, Mpox vaccines were not available in underdeveloped or developing countries despite originating in the DRC.

The Joint Continental Preparedness and Response Plan

The Joint Continental Preparedness and Response Plan, in its original efforts, focused on 10 key pillars in its efforts: coordination, risk communication and community engagement, disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, clinical management, infection prevention and control, vaccination, research, logistics and maintaining essential health services.

These pillars have managed to get more than 650,000 people vaccinated within the six countries at the highest risk. Of the vaccinations, 90% were administered in the DRC. Overall, more than one million vaccines were administered over the 10 listed countries and efforts to reduce the spread of Mpox in Africa through the implementation of the vaccination plan have not ceased.

The New Plan

The new plan, which still includes these pillars, intensifies the focus on controlling outbreaks and implementing Mpox prevention into routine health services. After the emergency period ends in August of 2025, the WHO and Africa CDC want the health services to continue. The aim is to prevent the further spread of Mpox in Africa.

To ensure this, the organizations agreed to continue to support countries in continuing the PHECS strategies. Beyond this, they aim to expand community engagement to strengthen the effectiveness of health strategies. Essentially, they will enhance and optimize each pillar, intending to finish the changes by the end of May 2025.

Final Remarks

With the reworking of the Joint Continental Preparedness and Response Plan, the WHO and African CDC hope to garner even more success in curbing and eradicating the spread of Mpox in Africa. Combating Mpox is not just a regional issue; it’s a test of our global commitment to health equity.

– Abby Buchan

Abby is based in York, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

, ,

Catalonia’s UBI Program: A Bold Strategy for Poverty Reduction

Catalonia’s UBI ProgramIn 2024, Catalonia launched one of Europe’s most ambitious Universal Basic Income (UBI) initiatives. The year 2025 marks the first full year of its UBI pilot program, with 5,000 residents receiving unconditional monthly payments of $906 for adults and $400 for children. Catalonia’s UBI program reflects a growing interest in new economic security solutions across Europe. It aims to reduce poverty while improving mental health and employment flexibility.

The Government of Catalonia tasked the Office of the Pilot Plan for UBI with managing the two-year experiment. The team selected the 5,000 participants from two groups: 2,500 randomly chosen across Catalonia and 2,500 residents of two lower-income villages. The pilot aims to assess the effects of unconditional cash distributions on various social and economic outcomes, which do not replace any existing benefits. This approach allows for a comparative analysis to determine the true efficacy of unconditional income in improving social and economic conditions.

Results Are Yet To Be Seen

The Catalan government has not released any official outcome data. A comprehensive evaluation of Catalonia’s UBI program will occur in 2026 when researchers assess income changes, employment, health and well-being across recipients and a designated control group. Sociologist Sergi Raventós, who initially implemented the program, emphasized, “This is the first time something like this has been done anywhere in the world.”

In an interview with InfoLibre, Raventós spoke about his belief that UBI should serve as a central redistributive tool for the 21st-century welfare state. He has also previously stated that recipients of UBI often report lower stress and greater freedom to make meaningful life decisions. Results from other UBI programs back up this assertion. However, given the novelty of Catalonia’s pilot program, such results remain impossible to predict before the release of official data.

Learning From Global Examples

Catalonia’s UBI program builds on lessons from earlier UBI trials around the world. From 2017 to 2018, Finland tested a UBI pilot that gave 2,000 unemployed people $635 monthly. Although the funds didn’t significantly impact employment rates, participants experienced reduced anxiety, higher life satisfaction and increased confidence. Many used the income to invest in personal projects, such as starting businesses, volunteering or focusing on education.

Similarly, in the United States, the SEED program in Stockton, California, gave 125 people $500 per month for two years. Recipients found full-time jobs at double the rate of non-recipients and reported improved emotional health. These findings suggest that UBI can enhance well-being, even without major effects on employment outcomes.

However, Catalonia’s pilot program is unique in its effort’s scale and duration. The program includes a larger sample size, higher monthly payments and a design that reaches urban and rural communities. The Catalan team is also collaborating with academics to ensure rigorous evaluation to help determine whether UBI improves recipients’ quality of life across various metrics.

Implications for Global Poverty Strategy

The results of Catalonia’s UBI program may likely influence poverty policy across the globe. Governments in South Korea, Kenya and Brazil have also explored unconditional payments, though few programs match Catalonia’s scope.

The Catalan program’s results will provide more substantive data on whether direct cash support helps people escape cycles of low-income instability. As cost-of-living crises grow worldwide, Catalonia’s experiment could change how countries think about poverty, security and the role of government in economic planning and dignity.

– Kelsey Eisen

Kelsey is based in San Francisco, CA, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Solar Energy for Education: Access To Learning in Burkina Faso

Learning in Burkina FasoLocated in the heart of West Africa, Burkina Faso is leading in educational innovation by making strides to ensure clean and reliable energy for learning. Numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing education in the country led to the creation of various programs supported by national and international organizations like the World Bank and the World Food Program (WFP).

Promoting Education in Dori

GSOL Energy has successfully installed a 20-kilowatt-peak (kWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) system at the Digital Learning Center in Dori, Burkina Faso. Furthermore, the project, initiated by the WFP, is part of a broader effort to improve education in rural areas by providing reliable access to electricity.

The new solar PV system supplies a stable and sustainable power source, ensuring the Digital Learning Center in Burkina Faso operates continuously, even during extreme weather or inconsistent sunlight. The system also includes key features that boost its performance and efficiency, including:

  • Roof-mounted solar panels optimised for peak efficiency.
  • 20 kWh inverter system enabling autonomous operation.
  • Battery backup providing up to 12 hours of continuous power.
  • Remote monitoring is used to track performance in real-time.
  • Air-conditioned enclosure safeguards system components against extreme heat and dust.

As part of the project, local staff were trained in operating, maintaining and troubleshooting the solar system. This approach enables the learning center to manage the system independently, helping to ensure its long-term sustainability.

The Lighting Africa Project

The Lighting Africa project, funded by the World Bank through Burkina Faso’s Ministry of Energy and implemented in partnership with Innovation Energie Development (IED), promotes sustainable energy solutions. This project significantly enhances the use of solar technology in rural Burkina Faso and establishes quality standards in renewable energy. This project aims to improve energy access for 400 off-grid primary schools in Burkina Faso.

A key feature of the project is the introduction of solar libraries, which will provide 25,000 certified solar lamps to schools. Additionally, students can rent these lamps to study and complete essential tasks at home. Families can access reliable lighting without facing upfront costs by keeping ownership with the schools.

In addition to providing essential lighting, this project seeks to increase awareness and demand for certified solar products in remote villages, which may not have grid electricity for at least the next 10 years. Measures will be implemented to develop a sustainable commercial network for selling certified solar lamps and kits near the schools.

Digital Inclusion

The Resource Center in Ouagadougou, co-founded by Christophe Oulé, promotes accessible information and communication technology. Its members are developing digital tools such as solar-powered audio devices, e-readers, Braille printers and accessible textbooks to support inclusive education for people with disabilities.

In 2021, the center achieved remarkable progress by translating 150 books into the barrier-free EPUB format, enhancing access to knowledge for individuals with visual impairments. An additional 54 books have been scanned and are on the verge of being digitized, making them accessible for both auditory and Braille formats.

The center not only provides essential educational materials for blind students but also includes novels, making literature accessible to all. Using 11 laptops and 10 tablets, audio content is conveniently transferred to small memory cards, allowing students to engage with learning resources fully. Moreover, students can take advantage of a Braille printer, enabling them to print and read their lessons in Braille, further fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Planning for the Future

The World Bank has invested significantly in Burkina Faso’s education sector. It has approved the $140 million Restoring Education System Performance and Improving Resilience (REPAIR) project on May 5, 2025. This initiative also allocates a $10 million grant to support Host Communities and Refugees.

Currently, the project is seeking co-financing from the Global Partnership for Education. Its goals include expanding access to pre-primary and primary education, enhancing student learning outcomes and strengthening the overall educational services available in the country. This comprehensive strategy ensures a more resilient and effective education system, benefiting local communities and refugee populations.

Key priorities are developing infrastructure resilient to climate instability, providing emergency education for at-risk groups, improving the quality of learning and strengthening institutional capacity for effective decision-making. The project is divided into four components: increasing educational access, aiding emergency education, enhancing foundational learning quality and building institutional capacity.

These combined efforts reflect a clear push toward a more inclusive and sustainable education system in Burkina Faso. Indeed, with support from global partners, the country is making strides in expanding access, improving quality and building resilience in education for all.

– Vanuza Antonio

Vanuza is based in the UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr