Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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TECHO: Harnessing Drone Technology to Combat Global Poverty

TECHOAccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 2 billion people live beyond the reach of essential medicines and quality health care. However, drone technology is helping resolve this “last mile” problem. In Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), more than 200 million people face poverty, struggling without access to basic needs such as clean water, housing and electricity. The World Bank estimates that as of 2023, one in four people in these regions lives on less than $6.85 per day, a clear reflection of widespread poverty. While there was a slight 1% decrease in poverty rates between 2022 and 2023, projections indicate that without further intervention, progress may stagnate.

TECHO: Housing and Social Programs

Founded in 1997, TECHO is a nonprofit organization that mobilizes youth volunteers to combat extreme poverty in Latin America and the Caribbean. The organization’s mission includes providing housing, clean water and access to social inclusion programs. In the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, TECHO was among the first groups to initiate reconstruction. Indeed, the organization was able to rebuild 10,000 homes. Currently, with the help of more than 500,000 volunteers, the organization has constructed homes for more than 86,000 families across 19 countries.

Advancements Through Drone Technology

In 2019, TECHO and DroneDeploy collaborated to enhance TECHO’s home rebuilding efforts in Brazil through drone technology. This partnership helped 634 communities by employing drone mapping—a technique involving aerial photography that produces comprehensive 3D visual maps. These maps improve visibility in urban settings, helping identify critical areas needing attention and the optimal approaches for intervention. The use of drones enabled TECHO to accurately assess the number of families living in poverty and in substandard conditions, pinpointing risk areas to prioritize for high-quality housing reconstruction.

Enhancing Urban Planning and Infrastructure in São Paulo

In São Paulo, TECHO aimed to introduce various social inclusion programs targeting poverty eradication and community integration. It expanded its partnership with DroneDeploy to use drones for assessing housing needs, a task complicated by often outdated data. Drones provided a precise count of families requiring improved living conditions and basic services like clean water, sewage and electricity. For instance, initial estimates suggested that a community housed 250 families; however, drone surveys revealed the actual number to be at least 520. This accurate data is crucial for TECHO to allocate sufficient resources to these communities effectively.

Looking Ahead

TECHO’s initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean aim to address the widespread poverty affecting millions in the region. Indeed, by leveraging drone technology, the organization has been able to precisely assess housing needs. Furthermore, drones have been able to identify the most vulnerable areas for targeted intervention. In São Paulo, drones revealed a significant undercount in the number of families living in poor conditions, allowing TECHO to more efficiently allocate resources. These ongoing efforts underscore the importance of innovative approaches to tackling poverty and improving living conditions across the region.

– Charlotte Johnston

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

Photo: Flickr

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Poliovirus Outbreak in Gaza

poliovirus outbreak in gazaAfter 25 years, children in Gaza are experiencing a poliovirus outbreak. Health officials have stated that there are links between the virus in Egypt and the poliovirus outbreak in Gaza, which is currently experiencing an outbreak in the middle of the war. The United Nations and local health officials launched a vaccination campaign in September 2024, hoping to reach as many children as possible. “The World Health Organization (WHO) has said Israel agreed to limited pauses in the fighting to facilitate the campaign,” AP News reports.

Background

Polio’s infection spreads quickly and painfully, especially in contaminated situations and conditions. It transmits from person to person, especially in contaminated water. Due to the war in Gaza, the water supply has been tainted with and contaminated with excrement. The Israeli army devastated the water supply and the wastewater disposal networks throughout the entirety of the Palestinian territory, according to Al Jazeera. This causes the wastewater to reach hundreds to thousands of civilian homes, forcing them to move to safer and healthier conditions.

“According to the Government Media Office in Gaza, the Israeli army has also stopped transferring the waste away from civilian areas by imposing control over waste dumps and targeting municipality workers, machinery and mechanisms in place to manage waste,” said Al Jazeera.

Cases of Polio in Gaza

Gaza reported one case of the polio virus in September 2024. The case is of a 10-month-old little boy, who is now paralyzed in both his legs, according to AP News. One confirmed case of polio leads to a few more suspected cases of polio, which leads to an outbreak of poliovirus in Gaza. According to Dr Majdi Duhair, scientifically speaking, one confirmed case of polio is an outbreak. One case of the polio virus can lead to at least 200 more infected people with no symptoms, NPR reports.

“Authorities plan to vaccinate children in central Gaza until Wednesday before moving on to the more devastated northern and southern parts of the strip,” AP News reports.

The Poliovirus Campaign

The poliovirus affects children under the age of 5 and affects the unvaccinated. Since the discovery of the poliovirus in July 2024, the campaign fighting the poliovirus outbreak in Gaza has received support from WHO, UNICEF, UNRWA and the Ministry of Health in Gaza. The campaign has about 2,700 health workers moving to different parts of Gaza throughout September. The first round of polio vaccinations began at the end of August and only covered a few children. According to Al Jazeera, the campaign aims to give oral polio vaccine drops to 640,000 children under 10.

“But we know from our experience in so many places that we have to implement at least two large-scale vaccination campaigns with the novel oral polio vaccine type two that achieves high levels of coverage to stop transmission,” said Hamid Jafari from CSIS.

Outbreak During a War

On August 16, 2024, U.N. Secretary-General Guterres called for a seven-day cease-fire. The cease-fire was to allow the campaign to safely move around Gaza during the poliovirus outbreak, looking for families with children under 10 years old to administer the oral vaccine. According to NPR, reaching all the families in Gaza is difficult. The war has moved people out of their homes, making them move to find a safe haven every hour. The campaign’s goal is to reach 90% of the children in Gaza. Since the territory is extensive and vulnerable, the campaign has more than 200 teams going around the entire territory to eradicate the disease.

“We go from shelter to shelter and tent to tent. People are literally everywhere. In the middle of the street, you have people living by the beach. So the idea is to reach every child wherever they are,” said Juliette Touma for NPR.

Conclusion

The poliovirus outbreak in Gaza is a result of the conditions Gaza is under because of the war. The ceasefire allowed for 558,963 children under 10 to receive oral drops of the vaccine. The goal of the 12-day campaign was to reach 640,000 children, but that was difficult since families were scattered all over Gaza on the streets, in tents, shelters, etc. because of the war. But each day health officials are reaching more families with their teams and area planning. According to Dr Richard Peeperkorn from the WHO, the campaign is a symbol or a show of the possibilities of peace in the world if given a chance to act.

– Ashley Diaz

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Sungai Design: Ending River Pollution in Indonesia

Sungai Design: An Approach to Ending River Pollution in Indonesia Aquatic waste accumulation severely affects many developing countries, with river pollution in Indonesia serving as a prime example. The Citarum River, the world’s most polluted, significantly lowers the quality of life for the 9 million people in the heart of Indonesia. A collection of human and industrial waste has driven the river’s bacterial levels to be 5,000 times higher than safe limits and lead concentrations are 1,000 times over the permissible level for consumption, according to the Asian Development Bank. The only uncontaminated water in the Citarum is found 150 meters underground, accessible only to local industries equipped to extract and purify it. Sungai Design, a nonprofit founded specifically to clean Indonesia’s rivers, has been so successful that it is considering expansion to other countries struggling with water pollution.

Addressing the Crisis

Unfortunately, due to the Citarum River’s role as a major water source, many people have to rely on contaminated water, even if indirectly. The river pollutes most waterways, affecting rice fields and farmers’ crops, which animals and people then consume. Consequently, diseases such as cholera and dermatitis have spread widely throughout Indonesia. As these health crises escalate, affecting the population and economy, various organizations have responded by implementing measures to reduce river pollution.

Sungai Design

Based in Bali, Indonesia, Sungai Design evolved from Sungai Watch, a nonprofit dedicated to cleaning Indonesia’s rivers. Sungai Watch developed a system of river dams that intercept trash, which is then cleaned up daily to prevent waste accumulation. Employees sort the collected waste into more than 30 material categories based on type and substance. As waste volumes increased, the organization faced challenges in disposing of it safely without risking its return to waterways, especially the Citarum River. Co-founder of Sungai Watch and Iris Prize winner from The Iris Project, Sam Benchighib, proposed a solution to repurpose the trash rather than simply dispose of it, leading to the creation of Sungai Design.

Sungai Design builds on Sungai Watch’s efforts to clean Indonesia’s rivers by transforming collected trash into eco-friendly furniture. After collecting and sorting the waste, Sungai Design employees create chairs from river plastics. These chairs, available in various colors, are placed throughout Indonesia and sold on the organization’s website. The initiative’s success has expanded to include benches and stools, each chair crafted from the equivalent of 2,000 plastic bags and supplemented with other recycled river debris. This commitment to sustainable products has inspired other nonprofits to go beyond mere disposal and consider repurposing pollution-causing materials.

Sungai Design’s Impact

In Indonesia, 300 floating river dams strategically installed across the country have collected an estimated 2.3 million kilograms of plastic, which Sungai Design repurposes into chairs. This significant effort showcases Sungai Design’s leadership in addressing river pollution. The organization serves as a model for nonprofits confronting environmental crises, demonstrating the value of not only removing trash but also repurposing it to benefit the environment.

Looking Ahead

Removing plastics from the rivers reduces contaminants such as lead and bacteria, which pose serious threats to local communities, their agriculture and livestock. By continuing to build on Sungai Design’s proactive approach, Indonesia can potentially enhance the quality of life for those most affected and promote overall national well-being.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Gender-Inclusive Pathways for Poverty Reduction in Nigeria

Gender-Inclusive PathwaysAccording to the World Bank, by the end of 2024, 40.7% of Nigerians are expected to live below the international poverty line of $2.15 per day. In October 2021, the Policy Innovation Center (PIC) was created to promote better policy-making in Nigeria. PIC is Africa’s first national initiative aimed at helping governments and organizations make better decisions through behavioral insights and evidence-based solutions. Each year, it hosts the Gender and Inclusion Summit to promote gender equality and inclusive governance in Africa.

PIC’s 2024 Summit

The 2024 summit (GS-24) took place on September 4 and 5 under the theme, “Reimagining Gender-Inclusive Pathways and Partnerships for Poverty Reduction.” The event focused on poverty reduction through gender-inclusive strategies, bringing together policymakers, stakeholders and organizations to influence national policy reforms and address issues like health, education and living standards.

The summit highlighted how gender equality is essential for economic growth, improved health and community well-being, emphasizing gender inclusion as a foundation for broader development goals. Its nine primary objectives, the Summit Tracks, provide a framework for gender-inclusive policies contributing to poverty reduction. They also align with the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for global peace and prosperity. Here are the four main summit tracks focused on poverty reduction in Nigeria.

Equitable Access to Health Care

According to the BMC Health Services Research, women in Nigeria have significant barriers to health care access. In 2021, 60% of providers believed women could not choose family planning methods without a male partner’s presence, while 23.2% thought unmarried clients should not use these services. With harmful practices occurring in 59.6% of deliveries, “Equitable Access to Health Care” is crucial.

The goal is to ensure gender-sensitive health care systems that improve community well-being. By focusing on this issue, PIC is working on inclusive policies that will enhance health care delivery and reduce health disparities – fighting “heath-related” poverty and aligning its work with SDG 3, “Good Health and Well-Being,” SDG 10, “Reduced Inequalities” and SDG 17, “Partnerships for the Goals.”

Educational Equity

Gender inequalities heavily affect the Nigerian population, with one in seven needy individuals – 19.1 million – living in households where a man has completed primary school, but no woman has. In 2022, more than 50% of girls were out of school at the elementary level, showcasing the importance of this second pillar’s emphasis on equal access to quality education. Indeed, the vision of education as a key driver of poverty reduction aligns with SDG 4, “Quality Education,” SDG 5, “Gender Equality,” and SDG 17, “Partnerships for the Goals.”

Advancing Gender Equity in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

Nigeria is improving its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) access, with 70% of people having drinking water, according to the Nigeria Multidimensional Poverty Index 2022. However, the amount and quality of water remain below the standard. Each person gets an average of nine liters daily when the recommended minimum is 12 to 16 liters.

Thus, to advance poverty reduction in Nigeria working on strategies to stop gender inequality in WASH services in needed. While women mainly handle household water, sanitation and hygiene in Nigeria, when these services are lacking, they often face extra burdens, including health risks, safety concerns and emotional stress and are without control over household decision-making. Work on this Summit track matches SDG 5, “Gender Equality,” SDG 6, “Clean Water and Sanitation” and SDG 17, “Partnerships for the Goals.”

Creating Secure Livelihoods and Decent Jobs for All

In 2022, 84.9% of women in Nigeria were in vulnerable employment and the labor force participation rate among females was 52.2% compared to 65.9% for men in 2023. Workers in vulnerable jobs lack formal contracts and social protection, making them more likely to fall into poverty. Furthermore, the labor force participation rate among females is 52.2% and among males is 65.9% for 2023.

The last point focuses on developing stable and secure employment opportunities while enhancing female economic empowerment. This point is linked with SDG 5, “Gender Equality,” SDG 8, “Decent Work and Economic Growth” and SDG 10, “Reduced Inequalities.”

Final Remark

The 2024 Gender and Inclusion Summit on “Reimagining Gender-Inclusive Pathways and Partnerships for Poverty Reduction” was centered on tackling gender inequality and poverty in Nigeria. By addressing health care, education, WASH access and secure jobs through its Summit Tracks, the event highlighted various ways to create a more inclusive society.

PIC’s efforts align with important Sustainable Development Goals and aim to drive policy changes that address the root causes of poverty. Indeed, as Nigeria faces considerable challenges with poverty and inequality, these gender-inclusive strategies are crucial for building a fairer and more prosperous future for all.

– Alissa Naydenova

Alissa is based in Colchester, Essex, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Humanitarian Aid and Peace Talks in Sudan

Peace Talks and Humanitarian Aid in SudanPeace talks aimed at ending the prolonged civil war in Sudan concluded without a ceasefire, but negotiators achieved a significant breakthrough by securing humanitarian aid routes, offering hope to millions of civilians in desperate need. Mediators from the United States (U.S.), Saudi Arabia and Switzerland, along with other international partners, gathered in Geneva to discuss ways to alleviate the suffering caused by the 16-month war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Aid Routes Open Amid Crisis

While a ceasefire remains elusive, the Sudan peace talks have successfully opened two major humanitarian corridors: the Adré border crossing with Chad, facilitating aid into Darfur and Dabbah Road, connecting Port Sudan to regions experiencing severe food shortages. “Aid trucks are on the road to provide famine relief in Zamzam Camp and other parts of Darfur,” said negotiators. “These routes must remain open and safe so we can surge aid into Darfur and begin to turn the tide against famine.” The World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that more than 25 million people, more than half of Sudan’s population, urgently need assistance. The newly opened routes are expected to deliver much-needed relief to areas that have been difficult to reach due to the conflict. 

A Nation At War

The war in Sudan, which started in April 2023, stems from a power struggle between the SAF, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the RSF, commanded by General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti. This conflict has roots in the legacy of former dictator Omar al-Bashir, who established the RSF as a counterinsurgency force to suppress rebellions, particularly in Darfur. After al-Bashir was ousted in 2019, efforts to establish a democratic government faltered, ultimately leading to violent clashes between these rival military factions. Since the conflict began, the humanitarian toll has been devastating, with the United Nations (U.N.) estimating nearly 20,000 fatalities. Approximately 8 million people have been displaced within Sudan, while another 2 million have fled to neighboring countries, all facing hunger and lacking access to medical care.

Humanitarian Progress Despite Setbacks

International mediators view the agreement on aid access as a critical step forward. The RSF has pledged to ensure safe passage for humanitarian convoys, previously hindered by both factions. The reopening of the Adré and Dabbah routes should alleviate suffering in famine-stricken regions. “The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is so severe that we could do four of these [negotiation rounds] and still be barely scratching the surface of what Sudanese people deserve,” stated U.S. Special Envoy Tom Perriello. However, the absence of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) from the peace talks curtailed the potential for a broader peace agreement. General Burhan, from Port Sudan, criticized the negotiations, claiming they favored the RSF.

Aid as a Lifeline

For many in Sudan, the newly opened aid routes are a lifeline. In Darfur, where ethnic violence has surged, the reopening of the Adré crossing is expected to help thousands displaced by fighting. Hawa Zakariya, a refugee who fled to Chad with her two children, described the dire conditions: “I don’t know if my family is alive or dead.” Her child has contracted malaria and food supplies in their camp are running low. International aid organizations, including the WFP, are preparing to ramp up efforts with the new access routes. The WFP has classified Sudan as a Level 3 emergency, its most severe designation, reflecting the magnitude of the crisis. Aid groups are urging both the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to permit unhindered delivery of supplies nationwide.

International Pressure

While the Sudan peace talks failed to secure a ceasefire, there is hope that the humanitarian progress achieved could lead to broader negotiations. Perriello noted, “We hope that this will be a source of momentum for much bigger steps down the road,” although he acknowledged the road to peace remains challenging. Currently, international efforts are focused on ensuring aid reaches those in desperate need. Given Sudan’s severe humanitarian crisis, one of the worst of the 21st century, sustained international pressure and support are crucial for the nation’s recovery.

– Georgia O’Keeffe

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

Photo: Flickr

Poverty Reduction in Northern Ireland 

Poverty Reduction in Northern Ireland Poverty in Northern Ireland exists as a unique case in the Global West. However, there are organizations in place working to amplify poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

The unusual situation in Northern Ireland comes as a result of the lingering effects of The Troubles. The Troubles refers to a period of political unrest and violence in Northern Ireland in the late 20th century. This came about as a result of political and religious discrimination by the state against the Irish Catholic population.

This has had a knock-on effect for generations. According to 2022/23 Poverty and Income Inequality Report, 14% of the population in Northern Ireland lived in absolute poverty. This manifests itself through rising unemployment rates and rising child poverty rates. Many people are struggling to pay their bills and feed their families.

According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, almost a third of children in Northern Ireland are impoverished. It also highlights elevated levels of wealth inequality. However, there are steps being taken to promote poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

The Aftermath of The Troubles

According to a 2002/2003 survey, nearly half of all adults living in Northern Ireland had suffered through the death or injury of a person they know. A decade later the foundation did another survey which showed that this had not subsided. Their 2012 survey showed that 35% of the adult population experienced the death of someone they know.

This has led to crises in regard to mental health and generational PTSD. It has also reinforced community divisions. The legacy of the Troubles has left a lot of communities in a cycle of poverty which they are struggling to emerge from. 

It has also led to high rates of long-term employment. There are great strides being made to reverse these trends. The Lifetime Opportunities scheme is a good example of this.

People and Place

In 2003, the Department for Social Development (DSD) introduced a program known as “People and Place – A strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal.” This project set out four primary objectives: Community Renewal, Economic Renewal, Social Renewal and Physical Renewal.

The DSD identified urban areas with the most need for renewal using the “New Noble Multiple Deprivation Measure.” These areas were primarily in Belfast and Derry. 

Neighbourhood Renewal

Neighbourhood Renewal in Northern Ireland is built upon the principle of community planning. This helps with the rolling out of new strategies and the facilitation of local planning and cooperation.

One of the most important aspects of Neighbourhood Renewals has been the establishment of Neighbourhood Partnerships. These partnerships play a key role in relation to poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

  • Some of the roles undertaken by these partnerships include:
  • Promoting community-based cooperation to drive renewal.
  • Working together within communities to draft Vision Statements and medium-term plans of action.
  • Ensuring that these plans come to fruition.
  • Finding out where support is needed most and distributing resources accordingly.

This scheme has done a great deal to aid people in working class areas. It has helped provide these areas with increased funding in facilities. For example, the Twinbrook area of West Belfast received a new family center worth £2.1 million through this scheme. This one example of the many ways in which the scheme has aided poverty reduction in Northern Ireland in recent years.

Lifetime Opportunities

In 2006, the executive launched a policy of poverty reduction in Northern Ireland. They also set out the goal of promoting social inclusion. 

Lifetime Opportunities is a framework by which to investigate the causes of poverty and tackle it at its roots. Their studies have shown that conditions are improving. In relation to the U.K. as a whole where 18% live in “absolute poverty,” that figure is 14% for Northern Ireland.

Their 2022/23 studies have highlighted where work needs to be done to combat poverty. Compared to the U.K. as a whole where the median household income fell by 1%, it fell by 5% in Northern Ireland.

– Cian Mortimer

Cian is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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3D-Printed Housing: A New Hope for the Homeless in Colombia

Homeless in ColombiaColombia is pioneering a transformative approach to addressing its housing crisis by deploying advanced 3D printing technology. The Crane WASP, developed by the World’s Advanced Saving Project (WASP), is a large-format 3D printer capable of constructing homes from natural resources such as dirt and agricultural waste. This innovation marks a significant leap toward providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions for Colombia’s homeless and displaced populations. The technology’s versatility and low energy consumption make it particularly effective in regions where traditional construction methods are impractical or too costly.

Resilience and Sustainability in Housing

Colombia’s vulnerability to disasters and climate-related shocks underscores the critical need for resilient housing solutions. Approximately 23% of Colombian households live in substandard housing units highly susceptible to climate impacts. To tackle this issue, the Colombian government, with support from GFDRR and the World Bank, has undertaken significant reforms. A comprehensive assessment revealed that while 80% of families needed improvements to existing housing, 98% of the annual $600 million housing budget was allocated to new construction.

Scalable Solutions Through Technology

Colombia faces a severe housing shortage, with more than 3.7 million households experiencing a deficit. The Crane WASP offers a scalable solution, particularly in regions where conventional construction methods are impractical or too costly. By leveraging the technology’s versatility and low energy consumption, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) aims to improve living conditions for the homeless and displaced populations throughout Colombia.

The use of natural materials in 3D printing significantly reduces the environmental footprint of construction. Traditional building methods often rely on concrete, which is resource-intensive and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, the Crane WASP utilizes local soil and agricultural waste, promoting a circular economy. Research reveals that sustainable building practices can lead to reduced waste, lower energy consumption and enhanced resilience to climate impacts, such as floods and hurricanes, which are increasingly affecting vulnerable populations.

Moving Forward

While specific numbers on how many people have benefited so far are not yet available, the initiative aims to target the most underserved regions, particularly rural areas that are difficult to reach. The use of advanced 3D printing technology, like the Crane WASP, allows for the construction of sustainable homes using natural resources, making it a promising solution for the homeless in Colombia.

As Colombia continues to explore and expand these technological solutions, it sets a precedent for other nations grappling with similar issues. The success of the Crane WASP initiative could inspire global adoption of 3D printing technology in housing, demonstrating how innovation can potentially transform the lives of vulnerable populations and drive sustainable development on a larger scale.

– Aneela Agha

Aneela is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Poverty in the Marshall Islands

Child poverty in the Marshall IslandsThe Marshall Islands are roughly between Hawaii and Australia in the Pacific Ocean. Child poverty in the Marshall Islands has been an issue that usually is ignored by the global community. Most children living in these islands face significant challenges in achieving adequate development due to limited access to health care. Poor education, maternal health challenges and malnutrition (35%) are some of the most common factors when talking about child poverty in the region.

Maternal Health Challenges

Maternal health care challenges and child poverty are closely related in the Marshall Islands. Limited access to efficient maternal health services harms health outcomes for both mothers and children. Children who are born from mothers who do not receive proper prenatal and postnatal care are at a higher risk of experiencing health issues, stunting and developmental delays. As a consequence, they are not able to do regular activities as any other children.

The lack of education on proper contraception contributes to a higher likelihood of unintended pregnancies, resulting in various health and economic challenges. A study conducted by the University of Arkansas on women in the Marshallese community living in Arkansas found that many mothers fear the adverse effects of contraception, leading them to reject contraceptive methods.

Education

Poverty significantly restricts children’s access to education in the Marshall Islands, particularly in rural areas where schools are often far from their homes. Limited learning materials, inadequate school infrastructure and a shortage of qualified teachers contribute to the low quality of education. As a result, many children discontinue their schooling to work and support their families, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is another significant consequence of poverty affecting children in the Marshall Islands. According to a 2017 joint study by the Marshall Islands government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), highlighted by the World Bank Group in 2020, 35% of Marshallese children younger than 5 suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition. This statistic is particularly alarming, even compared to other Pacific Island nations facing challenges related to poor nutrition and the high costs of imported goods.

What Is Being Done?

The government of the Marshall Islands, in collaboration with UNICEF, is implementing programs to improve health care and combat malnutrition. Efforts are focused on enhancing access to education and health care services. Mobile clinics and educational initiatives are being introduced to ensure that most children on the islands can benefit from these programs.

Additionally, the Early Childhood Development Project, launched by the World Bank in April 2019, directly addresses these issues. This $13 million initiative is funded by the International Development Association (IDA) in collaboration with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Government and UNICEF. The programs aim to improve health and nutrition, enhance early education and support families in creating a nurturing environment for their children. Additionally, evaluations and monitoring will be implemented to ensure the success and impact of the projects.

Conclusion

Addressing child poverty in the Marshall Islands requires a multifaceted approach involving local and international collaboration. Significant strides are being made to improve the living conditions and the future of children in the region. Indeed, initiatives like the Early Childhood Development Project and various programs improving nutrition, health care and education are making significant steps forward. Continued support and innovative solutions will be essential in ensuring that every child in the Marshall Islands has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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EpiC in Laos: HIV/AIDS Prevention for Marginalized Communities

EpiC in LaosThe Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) is an eight-year project (2019-2027) funded by the United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). EpiC’s goal is to achieve control over the HIV/AIDS epidemic by enhancing technology and service access to key populations.

EpiC is led by FHI 360, a global organization that rallies technology, research and relations to improve global health. FHI 360 is present in more than 60 countries. Its EpiC project has been implemented in 35 countries, from Laos to Central Asia and Africa. With a budget of $4.2 million for 35 countries, including Laos, EpiC has seen success in controlling HIV/AIDS and improving the living conditions of those affected.

HIV/AIDS in Laos

Laos, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, borders Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam and China. The country has a population of 7.5 million. The first case of HIV in Laos was recorded in 1992, involving a female sex worker who frequently traveled to Bokeo at the northern border of Laos and Thailand. Since then, Laos has maintained a low HIV prevalence, with an infection rate of 0.3%, affecting approximately 20,000 people by 2022.

The epidemic has a death toll due to the disease of less than 500. However, among the cases, 39.2% are female sex workers (FSM) and 11.5% are men who have sex with men (MSM). Approximately 11.682 cases of HIV/AIDS are on antiretroviral therapy (ART). Furthermore, 9,910 instances received a viral load test within the past 12 months.

EpiC’s Initiatives

EpiC is different from past HIV/AIDS control projects because it identifies that support for high-risk individuals is its target. High-risk populations include sex workers, pregnant women who have HIV and children whose one parent has HIV. Building on existing HIV/AIDS relief programs, EpiC improves management, accurate health information and funding.

Rolling out HIV testing and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), setting up a total market for open access to condoms and ART and decentralizing access to HIV/AIDS-related services to local and private sectors with appropriate funding health care providers to smaller regions are current EpiC’s actions. EpiC also prioritizes providing services to lessen the stigma and violence surrounding HIV/AIDS in health care and law enforcement.

EpiC’s Success

In 2022, EpiC achieved its goal of 95-95-95 in Laos. This means that 95% of people living with HIV/AIDS are aware of their health status. Additionally, 95% of those receive treatment and among individuals who receive treatment, 95% have suppressed viral infection and have no risk of passing the virus to others.

Moving Forward

With EpiC strategically set in place, the future is looking bright for HIV/AIDS patients and the health condition of developing countries, especially Laos. EpiC has made positive changes toward open access to HIV/AIDS control services to vulnerable communities through joint efforts and critical strategies.

– Jimmy Nguyen

Jimmy is based in Savannah, GA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Causes of Mental Health in Estonia

Mental Health in EstoniaThe people of Estonia have been grappling with mental illness for years. With a population of 1.3 million, approximately 20% are affected by anxiety and depressive disorders. Several factors contribute to the high rate of mental illness in the country, including gender, economic status and the impact of COVID-19. However, a significant factor is the existing policies regarding mental health.

Gender Differences

Worldwide, women are at a higher risk for certain mental illnesses than men. Women are more likely to have mental distress like anxiety, depression, eating disorders and more. At the same time, men are more likely to have Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism.

A 2021 post-COVID-19 survey in Estonia revealed that 31% of women in the study had developed depression, 25% had anxiety and 44% experienced sleep disorders. While women showed higher rates of certain mental disorders, men had a significantly higher rate of alcohol addiction at 34%, compared to 17% among women.

The Effects of Socioeconomic Status

The economic status of certain demographic groups in Estonia also correlates with higher levels of mental distress. According to the National Library of Medicine, “lower personal income was associated with higher rates of all mental health complaints (stress, depressiveness, overtiredness and suicidal thoughts) among employed adults in Estonia.” Economic status is not the only socioeconomic factor contributing to the rise in mental distress in Estonia.

Education has also been identified as a high-risk factor for mental health disorders. “The mental health of Estonian students has never been as critical as today.” Compared to other European countries, Estonia’s student population has twice as many reported mental health 0issues. In 2021, 5% of students across Europe were admitted to university with mental health problems, while Estonia’s rate was 9%.

COVID-19

COVID-19 significantly contributed to a global increase in mental distress and Estonia is no exception. The country continues to feel the effects of the mental strain left by the pandemic. According to the Health Systems and Policy Monitor, a 2022 study revealed that one in four adults in Estonia is at risk of developing depression in the aftermath of COVID-19.

Furthermore, a survey conducted by the National Library of Medicine found that elite athletes in Estonia experienced high levels of mental distress when COVID-19 hit. Female athletes showed higher distress levels than their male counterparts. With competitions canceled, training facilities closed and face-to-face coaching suspended, stress levels among athletes soared.

Policies

Estonia’s mental health services have improved in recent years due to continuous policy changes. Initially, the country had only drafts of policy documents for mental health services. However, as mental distress increased among its citizens, Estonia updated and strengthened its policies to address the growing need.

The Health Systems and Policy Monitor (HSPM) Network has provided an update on future policy changes aimed at improving mental health in Estonia. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and the rise in mental illness among low-income groups, policymakers have made mental health initiatives a top priority. A new “Mental Health Action Plan” is set to take effect from 2023 to 2026.

The Mental Health Action Plan details anticipated changes in the field of mental health. The plan emphasizes the Ministry of Social Affairs’ (MoSA) role in implementing these changes. It recognizes that addressing issues in mental health will require additional actions beyond what is currently outlined and achievable within the plan’s timeframe.

Conclusion

Mental distress can affect individuals regardless of gender or socioeconomic status, highlighting a widespread issue. However, positive strides have been shown, as evidenced by the significant improvements in Estonia’s mental health services in the past 10-15 years.

– Ashley Diaz

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

Photo: Flickr