Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Elderly Poverty in Uruguay: Lowest Rate in Latin America

Elderly Poverty in Uruguay
Elderly poverty in Uruguay presents extreme challenges for individuals and society. Although Uruguay leads the region in social welfare and maintains one of Latin America’s lowest elderly poverty rates of 2.2%, gaps in the nation’s safety nets reveal ongoing struggles. This article explores the overlooked realities of elderly poverty in Uruguay and examines its impact on social isolation, mental well-being and the growing strain on the country’s renowned social security system.

Why Elderly Poverty in Uruguay Exists

Social isolation often compounds these difficulties, as financial constraints can limit mobility and access to community resources, leaving many elderly individuals feeling disconnected and unsupported. While programs like the Non-Contributory Pension provide vital assistance, some seniors still rely on family support or informal work. These challenges highlight the need for continued investment in social protection and targeted initiatives to address the unique vulnerabilities of Uruguay’s aging population.

Considering that one in four elderly individuals in the country lives alone, the issue of social isolation becomes an increased risk. Living alone often exacerbates feelings of loneliness and disconnect, particularly for those already struggling with limited mobility or financial constraints. Addressing this issue requires not only expanding economic assistance but also fostering a more inclusive social environment that ensures all elderly individuals can age with dignity, connection and support.

The Overlooked Realities

Uruguay’s relatively low elderly poverty rate in Latin America does not eliminate the significant consequences of this issue. The country’s robust social security system and progressive policies aim to support its aging population. However, even in a nation lauded for its social safety nets, elderly poverty still affects many individuals and creates far-reaching problems.

Limited financial resources often force elderly individuals to live in inadequate housing. Additionally, social isolation, often a byproduct of financial hardship, undermines their mental and emotional well-being which leads many to navigate their golden years in loneliness and insecurity. These realities impact not only individuals but also strain Uruguay’s social infrastructure. This demonstrates the need for focused strategies to address the unique challenges that elderly poverty in Uruguay poses.

The PNC’s Impactful Programs

Uruguay significantly reduced its elderly poverty rate through pioneering social protection programs such as the Non-Contributory Pension for the Elderly and Disabled (PNC). Established in 1919, this initiative provides critical financial support to individuals over 70 and those with disabilities who lack the means to cover basic living expenses. The Banco de Previsión Social (BPS) administers the program, which ensures a monthly cash benefit of $135 for eligible recipients. This offers a lifeline to the most vulnerable.

Two decades later, Uruguay continues demonstrating its commitment to social protection. By 2022, the elderly poverty in Uruguay dropped to just 2.2%. Remarkably, this low rate exists alongside a significant elderly population, as 17.3% of Uruguay’s residents fall within the age of 65 or older. This proportion ranks remarkably high among other countries. In perspective, the United States stands at 16.5% while Canada is at 16.3%.

Additionally, Uruguay’s dual pension system combines mandatory savings for higher earners with non-contributory support for those in need, creating economic stability for its aging population. With social security spending accounting for 8.7% of the GDP as of 2012, the PNC not only reflects Uruguay’s strong political commitment to income security but also serves as a model for addressing elderly poverty across Latin America.

In contrast, 29% of Latin America’s population lived in poverty in 2022, including 11.2% experiencing extreme poverty. These challenges disproportionately affect women, indigenous communities and rural populations, highlighting the need for strategies like Uruguay’s to alleviate poverty among seniors.

Empowering Elders to Avoid Isolation

Social isolation deeply harms mental health, often leading to loneliness, anxiety and depression. Prolonged isolation increases risks of cognitive decline, weakens immune systems, and raises the likelihood of substance abuse.

On a societal level, social isolation undermines social infrastructure by weakening community bonds, reducing civic engagement and diminishing the collective sense of trust and support. This erosion of social cohesion can lead to less effective collaboration in addressing shared challenges, from economic inequality to public health crises.

There are some countries reporting that up to one in three older people feel lonely. With the likeliness of this, investing in initiatives that foster connection and inclusivity is essential not only for individual well-being but also for maintaining a resilient and thriving society.

Latin America’s Most Robust Social Welfare System

Uruguay’s social security system, considered one of Latin America’s most comprehensive, supports nearly 90% of the elderly population through a mixed system of public and private schemes. In 2018, social security spending accounted for 11% of Uruguay’s GDP, surpassing funding for sectors like health and education.

Despite the challenges, this robust welfare system highlights the commitment to reduce elderly poverty in Uruguay by showcasing the potential of comprehensive social welfare frameworks. However, experts and policymakers, stress the urgent need for reform—such as raising the retirement age and recalibrating pension formulas—to ensure long-term stability.

While these reforms face political resistance and public opposition with 69% of Uruguayans opposing the raise of retirement age, they are crucial for maintaining Uruguay’s pioneering social welfare model, which has become a cornerstone of the nation’s commitment to addressing elderly poverty.

How Other Countries Can Reduce Elderly Poverty

Uruguay’s approach to addressing elderly poverty offers valuable lessons for nations aiming to build robust social welfare systems. Its combination of non-contributory pensions for the most vulnerable and mandatory savings for higher earners ensures broad coverage while mitigating economic disparity among seniors.

Other nations could adopt similar policies by implementing means-tested financial support programs and promoting inclusive pension systems. Additionally, initiatives aimed at reducing social isolation—such as community centers, digital literacy programs and intergenerational projects—can help protect the mental and emotional well-being of older adults. By allocating meaningful resources to social security, governments can reduce elderly poverty, strengthen social cohesion, and create a more equitable society where aging populations receive the dignity and care they deserve.

– Bailie Cross

Bailie is based in Pensacola, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Reduce Poverty

How Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Reduce PovertyThe widespread availability of international travel has allowed many young people to embark on extended trips known as backpacking. Backpacking gained popularity in the late 20th century with the establishment of the hippie trail, an overland route stretching from London to Pakistan. Travelers were drawn to its promise of tropical landscapes, freedom from drug restrictions and an escape from routine life. Nowadays, backpacking has become an unofficial rite of passage for many young travelers. Fortunately, a backpacking trip offers a life-changing experience and benefits the communities visited.

4 Ways Backpacking in Indonesia Can Help Fight Poverty

  1. Economic Impact. According to the United Nations (U.N.) World Tourism Agency, tourism contributes around 10% of global GDP. Additionally, tourism is recognized as the world’s largest voluntary transfer of wealth from wealthy to poorer populations. Tourism injects capital into local economies and drives development, particularly in low-income nations. Indonesia prioritizes tourism as part of its national development strategy. In regions where tourism dominates the economy, poverty rates are 1.5% to 3.4% lower compared to areas with less tourist activity. Furthermore, tourist spending boosts household income in both rural and urban Indonesia by up to 6%.
  2. Employment. Backpackers create jobs in the destinations they visit. Their presence in areas beyond conventional tourist hotspots stimulates demand for budget accommodations, traditional cuisine and nature-based activities such as rafting and trekking. These industries support labor-intensive employment, encourage gender inclusivity and promote local entrepreneurship. For example, in Ubud, a backpacker hub in Bali, street vendors and restaurants like Bu Mangku’s have capitalized on travelers’ demand for authentic Balinese cuisine. Selling popular dishes such as Betutu chicken has created jobs for local farmers, market vendors and restaurant staff. This illustrates the economic benefits of backpacker tourism. By favoring locally produced goods and services, backpackers help prevent economic leakage, discourage urban migration and reduce wealth inequality.
  3. Societal and Cultural Impacts. Backpackers tend to immerse themselves in local communities, fostering demand for authentic cultural experiences. This incentivizes the preservation of indigenous traditions. In Indonesia, particularly in Ubud, interest in cultural tourism has revived traditional performing arts such as Balinese Barong and Le Gong dances. This appreciation encourages younger generations to embrace their heritage while creating economic opportunities for performers and artisans.
  4. Mobilization and Awareness. While backpacking through Indonesia, travelers witness both the hospitality of locals and the stark poverty that exists in some regions. Awareness alone marks a step toward positive change. Backpackers are in a position to contribute, whether through supporting local businesses, volunteering or raising awareness. Traveling instills lasting values of gratitude, empathy and open-mindedness, fostering a sense of responsibility toward the communities that host them.

Looking Forward

Backpacking in Indonesia has the potential to support economic development, create jobs and promote cultural preservation. However, sustainable tourism requires responsible practices that prioritize community well-being. Ensuring that local populations remain key stakeholders in tourism initiatives is essential to maximizing the industry’s role in poverty alleviation. By making thoughtful travel choices, backpackers can potentially help ensure that their adventures contribute to a more equitable and prosperous future for the communities they visit.

– Ollie Roberts

Ollie is based in the UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Migration to Syria: The Challenges Migrating Syrians Face

Migration to Syria
More than 125,000 Syrians have migrated to Syria after 13 years of war. Many have come back to a country that destruction and death has devastated, a country which has endured the dictatorship of Bashar Al-Assad.

According to the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), at least 580,000 people have died since the start of the war. Under the regime, many citizens and journalists have been kidnapped, injured or killed.

The fall of Assad has meant many Syrians have felt compelled to return to their home country, now it is free from his regime. These migrating Syrians face many challenges and must navigate multiple factors that influence their return, or whether they will return now or later. Here is more information about migration to Syria.

Host Countries are Eager to Facilitate Migration to Syria

Many host countries, such as Turkey respectively, are eagerly promoting Syrian migration. This has meant measures, such as Turkey reopening its Yayladagi border gate in order to “to prevent any congestion and ease traffic,” and make migration easier for most Syrians.

Humanitarian Emergency 

The main obstacles returning Syrians face are access to water, food and safe shelter. According to the UN, nearly 15 million Syrians require medical aid and 13 million are suffering through food insecurity. The war severely damaged essential infrastructure like hospitals, farmlands and shops. Mrinalini Santhanam from the WHO has said “Almost half of the hospitals in Syria are not functional.” However, there is still hope they can rebuild despite the current state of the country.  

The IOM has appealed for $73 million to assist the Syrian population. Since December 2024, the IOM has supplied 170,000 Syrians with clean water. The IOM aims to use the money to provide essential relief items to returning and displaced Syrians, like shelters, sanitation and health support. It also aims to apply its Displacement Tracking Matrix, a tool that analyzes data around displaced persons, in order to ensure that aid workers can provide more efficient and suitable support to Syrians.

According to the UNCHR, 90% of Syrians rely on humanitarian aid. Short term goals of providing aid will, in turn, support the long-term goal of rebuilding Syria into the thriving, beautiful country it once was. UNCHR is supporting this by providing shelters, cash and education programs for Syrians returning and those who the war displaced.

Overhauling Sanctions 

The global community can assist in achieving this goal of peace not only through providing aid but also in lifting sanctions. These sanctions had been placed upon Assad’s regime, not the current government. Therefore, they arguably are not providing any productive purpose.

Syrian Ambassador Koussay Aldahhak stated that “a smooth end to sanctions, appropriate action on designations too, and major funding” was necessary, claiming that such sanctions don’t apply to the current authority and impede the efforts to rebuild.

The EU has responded to this issue by agreeing to lift some sanctions. These include sanctions that had been placed on the “energy and […] financial institutions,” according to France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. This gradual removal of sanctions may help catalyze Syria’s growth by aiding the economy.

Most people migrating back to Syria plan to overcome the issue of a stunted economy by subsisting on money earned in the neighboring countries they once lived in. The UNCHR has reported that increasingly the demographic of returning Syrians are women and children. Reports have said that some families plan to leave the breadwinner of the family in the host country. This would enable the breadwinner to work and earn money that the family can use to successfully readapt into Syrian society.

Cultural Reintegration

Another issue that returning Syrians may face is how their experiences in host countries will influence how well they adjust back to Syrian society. This especially applies to children of Syrians, children who may have had little to no knowledge of or attachment to the country their parents were born in. Muhammed Salih Ali, head of the Association for Solidarity with Syrian Refugees in Izmir, Turkey, said it would be “very difficult for this generation to return.” 

The Future 

Despite the numerous hurdles that Syria faces, the unbridled support from NGOs and the determination of its people will help restore the country and give peace to its citizens. The steady increase of migration to Syria clearly shows that Syrians are resolute to return home to a country they deeply care about. 

– Maryam Abdalla

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

Photo: Pixabay

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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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Learning Poverty Among the Bidoon in Kuwait

Bidoon in Kuwait
Kuwait is known as one of the world’s richest countries, though more than half of children over the age of 10 are not reading proficiently. This phenomenon called learning poverty is unfairly affecting the children of Kuwait, highlighting the gaps in education equity and quality. In particular, learning poverty is affecting Bidoon children, a marginalized group in Kuwait. Here is more information about learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait.

Elements of Child Poverty in Kuwait

Child poverty and overall poverty levels in Kuwait are reportedly just above 0%, according to the Nations Encyclopedia. Though experiencing levels of economic abundance, that has proved inefficient when addressing education poverty. Learning poverty runs through Kuwait’s youth, especially hurting marginalized groups like the Bidoon. 

The Bidoon (short for “bidoon jinsiya”) in Kuwait are descendants of undocumented individuals who did not gain Iraqi citizenship at the state’s founding. Despite living in a wealthy region like Kuwait, they face high poverty rates and limited accessibility to resources as stateless individuals.

Kuwait ranks above average among the Middle East and North Africa (MNA) countries when measuring child learning poverty. The World Bank April 2024 Kuwait Learning Poverty Brief shows that 51% of late primary age children in Kuwait are not proficient in reading. Kuwait measures 2% less than the MNA average of children in learning poverty.

Although this is statistically above average, stable education is what children in Kuwait need to improve overall health and prosperity. Ensuring children are in school relates directly to social challenges facing Kuwait families such as early marriage, mental health and child nutrition, according to the World Bank’s “From Learning Recovery to Education Transformation” executive summary.

What is Learning Poverty?

Learning poverty is the inability to read and understand proficiently by the age of 10. The World Bank measures learning poverty through assessments and enrollment data, concluding that 53% of the MNA faces learning poverty.

Factors that also contribute to learning poverty are learning deprivation and school deprivation. Learning deprivation is the share of students reading below the minimum proficiency level, which exposes the inequality and disadvantage that the poor in Kuwait face. School deprivation represents children who are not enrolled in any schooling.

Learning and school deprivation pose a threat to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which the United Nations set in place in 2015 to unite the globe in successfully attaining prosperity for all by 2030. The fourth goal is for inclusive and quality education for all.

In Kuwait’s case, learning deprivation for April 2024 was measured at 49% and school deprivation was 3%. In order to ensure education is a priority, each child needs the opportunity.

How are Bidoon Children Facing Disadvantages?

An article by Aisha Elgayar for Arij emphasized the difficult lifestyle of the Bidoon children, described as “living in the shadows” of a lavish country surrounding them. Inherited restrictions put on them keep them from receiving basic rights like education, general employment and birth/marriage certificates.

Along with restricted access to economic freedom and political rights, the Bidoon also face health concerns due to limited supply of fresh water and electricity. The lack of data regarding the Bidoon community also reflects in the lack of aid they receive.

One can see child poverty in Kuwait through the Bidoon population, which was between 83,000 and 120,000 as of August 2024. The continued negligence to these undocumented children indicate ill-equipped schools and unequal circumstances.

Solutions

UNICEF, UNESCO and the World Bank created the RAPID strategy in response to COVID-19 to solve learning issues at the source for each child. This framework represents mending the five parts of education reconstruction; Reach, Access, Prioritize, Increase and Develop. Before COVID-19, findings showed that learning at an accelerated rate was possible in the Middle East. The steps from this program ensure that each student is practicing foundational skills.

RAPID prioritizes reaching every child, assessing learning levels regularly, focusing on teaching the fundamentals, increasing efficiency of instruction and developing psychosocial health.

In regards to marginalized and stateless groups such as the Bidoon population, the RAPID strategy works to transform the way these children learn and breaks down barriers that hold them back from accessing education. The World Bank and UNICEF support a “reach-all” initiative, entailing multiple modes of learning and flexible learning programs. UNICEF’s RAPID’s 2024 findings show that the RAPID framework has been established in Kuwait.

After Kuwait shut the Bidoon out of public education in 1992, efforts have been made to advance their right to education. For example, in 2014, the Katateeb Al-Bidoon Initiative, which Yusuf al-Bishiq led, created an after-school program for Bidoon children for one short semester, but its lifespan provides insight into how a transformative future is possible. Katabeeb al-Bidoon embraces a practical system that could be successful if implemented in the future.

Looking Ahead

While statistically, Kuwait is one of the leading countries in the Middle East in wealth and income, learning poverty highly impacts Bidoon children. Hopefully, UNICEF’s RAPID strategy will eliminate learning poverty among the Bidoon in Kuwait moving forward.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health 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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The Reality of Women’s Rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Women's Rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, an island country located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, consists of the island of Saint Vincent and the Grenadine Islands. Throughout the past several decades, women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has made progress. With still more work being necessary, Saint Vincent and the Grenadine Islands have made an immense amount of strides to combat women’s rights issues. ​

Improving Women’s Rights

When it comes to gender equality, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines performs well on the gender scorecard. The country has made several improvements to combat gender inequality, which spans over the past two decades. Looking at women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, economic opportunities, human endowments and voice and agency are among the improvements that this country has made to build on the issue. The economy ranks at 59.8, which means this country has a moderately free economy.

Poverty in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Poverty in islands such as Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is prevalent. Based on UNICEF data, in 2016, 30% of individuals living in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines suffered from poverty. The poverty rate in the country is higher than that of other surrounding countries. About 41% of people were more likely to suffer from poverty in female headed households as compared to 31% of male headed households. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and made poverty rates go up, specifically with children. Child poverty rates in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are projected to increase from 4% to 18% post pandemic.

The Maternal Health Access For Women 

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, women have prominent access to maternal health care services, leading to 98.6% of births being attended by a health care professional in 2016. This country has tried to reduce the adolescent birth rate and has made progress doing so. The adolescent birth rate is 1.8 per 1,000 women from ages 15-19 as of 2021. Comparing these numbers to 2020, it was 53.58 per 1,000. Through the changes made, it impacts the life expectancy of the population there. The life expectancy at birth in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has improved from 71.7 years in 2000 to 72.6 years as of 2021. This is a 0.895 increase when comparing the data of life expectancy at birth.

Political Progress

As of February 2024, women occupied only 18.2% of parliament seats. Meanwhile, in 2010, women held only 14.3%. These numbers are low in comparison to its surrounding country, Trinidad and Tobago. As of 2023, 28.6% of women hold the parliament seats in Trinidad and Tobago. Although the numbers vary, the number of women in parliament seats in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will continue to climb.

Violence Against Women

In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, gender-based violence has improved through anti-violence campaigns and government initiatives. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is a campaign that runs from November 25 to December 10. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines participate in this campaign and information is brought to schools to make people aware of why this campaign is important.

A strategy called The Montevideo Strategy is implementing public policies, known as the Regional Gender Agenda, by 2030 to ensure gender equality in the Caribbean. A government initiative called The Gender Affairs Division of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (GAD), first created in 2001, works to tackle gender-based violence. The GAD consists of a woman coordinator and promotes counseling and contact with other agencies as a way of support and prevention of violence against women. Through GAD, the government built a crisis center for victims of domestic violence in 2012. The center runs a 24/7 hotline as well as houses 10 people for 3 months.

Going Forward

Although women’s rights in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines have made significant progress over the past decades, progress is still continuing to be made. Through economic opportunities, women’s role in government and health care, this country will continue to showcase their value in women’s rights. The government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is working to implement legislature to help protect women’s rights in the country. According to 2023 Human Rights Report data, the government put in place anti-violence campaigns in schools and communities as a way to end gender-based violence based on their 16 days of activism campaign. It will not be easy to gain full equality but by these small efforts change is already closer than it appears. 

– Kayla Barnak

Kayla is based in Brownstown, MI, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Jordan Becomes the First Leprosy-Free Country

jordan leprosy-freeJordan, officially named the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, hosts the fifth largest number of refugees per capita. Jordan regularly welcomes refugees from its neighboring countries and has taken in more than 640,000 Syrian refugees since the start of the Syrian Civil War in 2011. Despite Jordan’s cultural significance and international recognition, 24.1% of its population lives below the poverty line. Jordan continues to face challenges such as water scarcity and lack of arable land, while also hosting a large number of refugees, which are an economic challenge for the country. Despite these challenges, Jordan has just celebrated a major success by becoming the first leprosy-free country in the world.

Jordan: First Leprosy-Free Country

In September 2024, the World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded Jordan with a verification of becoming Leprosy-free. Jordan has not reported any Leprosy infections from within its borders in more than two decades and became the first country in the world to receive this verification by the WHO.

This success is in line with the WHO’s mission to eradicate leprosy. The WHO has launched the Towards zero leprosy Strategy 2021–2030, which works together with countries to achieve zero leprosy in the World. The WHO is working towards “zero infection and disease, zero disability, zero stigma and discrimination and the elimination of leprosy,”

There are still more than 200,000 new infections recorded worldwide, with more than half recorded in India. Leprosy is an infectious chronic disease caused by the Mycobacterium leprae. It is spread through droplets in the mouth and nose. Leprosy is transmitted by prolonged close contact with the infected. Once treatment is started people living with leprosy are no longer infectious. Left untreated, leprosy affects the skin, upper respiratory tract, and eyes and can lead to physical deformity. Leprosy is curable and treatable, and if treated early physical deformities can be avoided entirely. The treatment is a combination of three different antibiotics, namely dapsone, rifampicin and clofazimine.

Stigma

Unfortunately, those affected by the disease not only suffer from the physical effects of leprosy but regularly suffer from stigmatization. These range from social isolation to financial hardship, as people who have visible deformations are often rejected by the job market. In some parts of the world, leprosy is regarded as divine punishment. It can also be used as grounds for a divorce.

WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia Saima Wazed congratulated Jordan for this major public health achievement: “Jordan’s elimination of this age-old disease is a historic milestone in public health and a huge success for efforts to eliminate leprosy globally. The fight against leprosy around the world is more than a fight against a disease. It is also a fight against stigma and a fight against psychological and socio-economic harm. I congratulate Jordan on its achievement.”

Jordan’s historic achievement highlights how closely collaborating with the WHO and following the guidelines as outlined by the WHO’s Towards Zero Leprosy strategy is the key to success in the fight against Leprosy. Such news inspires hope that other countries still affected by leprosy can have similar success.

– Salome von Stolzmann

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

Photo: Flickr

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Mission 300: Push for Clean Energy Access in Africa

Clean energy access in africaIn terms of factors worsening global poverty, energy distribution and access to electricity both play a pivotal role in alleviating poverty worldwide. Many places struggle with energy distribution and access. However, in parts of Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, this problem remains severe. According to the World Bank Group, 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa lack access to electricity. This number represents nearly 83% of the world’s unelectrified population. To combat this issue, the World Bank Group has partnered with the African Development Bank and other collaborators on Mission 300, a project that aims to provide clean energy access in Africa by 2030.

Ambitious Project

Mission 300 aims to deliver clean and affordable energy to nearly 300 million people. To achieve this goal, the World Bank and the African Development Bank will collaborate with governments, philanthropies, the private sector and multilateral. The success of this initiative depends on working with different governments and addressing the unique energy needs of each country, guided by local leaders. Negotiations with the private sector will also play a crucial role in managing transmission and distribution networks. Additionally, donors, philanthropists and other partners will contribute vital investments to ensure the project’s financial success and help attract public funding.

Different from Past Efforts

Previous efforts have tried to address the electricity crisis, but Mission 300 offers a new approach. First, it is African-led, allowing leaders to implement country-specific reforms tailored to their populations. Moreover, the initiative has already made progress by helping 12 million Africans gain access to electricity. Significant financial backing supports this effort, with $20 billion in funding from the International Development Association and additional support from donors and partners like the Rockefeller Foundation.

New contributors continue to join the project. Agencies from the United States (U.S.), the United Kingdom (U.K.) and Germany have expressed interest in assisting. In comparison to earlier initiatives such as the World Bank’s 2007 Lighting Africa project, which struggled to reach its goals or the African Development Bank’s 2016 ‘New Deal on Energy for Africa,’ which experienced delays due to funding gaps and logistical hurdles, Mission 300 builds on lessons from those experiences. By integrating new resources and innovative methods, this initiative aims to succeed where previous efforts fell short.

Finding Clean Energy Solutions

Mission 300 prioritizes green energy solutions like solar, wind and hydropower to limit the environmental impact of increased energy access. Mini-grids and off-grid systems will bring electricity to rural areas without relying on carbon-emitting infrastructure. Additionally, the project promotes energy efficiency measures that reduce environmental harm while eliminating reliance on kerosene and diesel fuels.

Looking to the Future

Mission 300 continues to expand, with 12 million people already connected and 90 million ongoing projects in progress. This initiative offers unprecedented clean energy access in Africa. Staying informed about Mission 300 is crucial, as the project continues its efforts to provide sustainable energy solutions for millions across sub-Saharan Africa.

– Michael Messina

Michael is based in Newburyport, MA, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Things to Know about Renewable Energy in Brazil

Renewable Energy in BrazilBrazil is one of the largest energy markets in the world, and the largest energy market in Latin America. There are over 88 million consumers of electricity in Brazil, including residential, commercial and industrial consumers. With Brazil producing and consuming that much energy, renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric, solar, and wind power are incredibly popular throughout the country.

Renewable Energy Efforts

  1. Brazil is a world leader in renewable energy. The global average for renewable energy sectors is 25%, whereas renewable energy accounts for more than 80% of Brazil’s energy network, according to the International Trade Administration (IDA). Brazil also has one of the cleanest energy matrices in the world, with the vast majority of its energy production being renewable. For the most part, Brazil also focuses on domestic energy production, instead of outsourcing or importing their energy.
  2. The most popular form of renewable energy in Brazil is hydropower. In 2020, hydroelectric power produced 66% of all electricity generated in Brazil, which is five times more than the amount of electricity that fossil fuels produced. Most hydroelectric power plants operate in the Amazon River Basin, which is in northern Brazil. Brazil has more than 150 active hydropower plants.
  3. Plastic water bottles are providing energy. Several areas in Brazil still do not have reliable access to electricity. Some organizations, like Litro de Luz, are working to provide access to electricity through the use of recyclable materials. The organization uses these materials, including plastic bottles and PVC pipes, to create solar panels that function as lanterns or lamp posts. Litro de Luz focuses on low-income families in impoverished regions. Their inventive solar energy methods have provided reliable renewable electricity to more than 20,000 people.
  4. While solar energy only accounted for less than 10% of energy produced in Brazil in 2020, it is rapidly becoming more popular as a renewable energy source, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). There has been a focus on providing solar energy in low-income areas due to the low cost of installation and upkeep. Organizations like ABSOLAR work with Brazilian solar companies and energy companies to promote the increased use of solar energy throughout the country. By 2030, Brazil hopes to have solar energy account for the majority of its power expansion.
  5. Wind turbines are another form of renewable energy in Brazil. The first wind turbine in Brazil began operations in 1992, and Brazilians have steadily increased the use of turbines since. The Brazilian Wind Power Association estimates that 16% of renewable energy in the country comes from wind power. There are also more than 1,100 wind farms in Brazil, both onshore and offshore. In addition to providing clean energy, wind power is also helping to provide jobs in Brazil. Each wind turbine installed creates roughly 11 jobs.

A Booming Industry

Renewable energy in Brazil is a booming industry. It provides thousands of jobs and access to clean, reliable energy to those in need. Brazil utilizes several renewable energy sources, including hydroelectric, solar and wind power. There are also many organizations working to make renewable energy available to everyone, such as ABSOLAR, Litro de Luz, and the Brazilian Wind Power Association. Renewable energy is helping to make electricity access affordable, reliable, and clean around the world. Brazil is steadily growing as a leader in this mission.

– Lizzie Mazzola

Lizzie is based in Raleigh, NC, USA and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr