Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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The United States Announces $39 Million in Aid for Zimbabwe

Aid for ZimbabweIn July of 2024, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced more than $39 million of assistance for Zimbabwe in the face of extreme food insecurity. The landlocked African country has encountered increasing rates of food insecurity following poor weather and droughts. These weather patterns have increased food insecurity in Zimbabwe and impacted the nation’s economy and agricultural infrastructure. Foreign assistance from organizations such as USAID can often make all the difference in the developing world. Here is what you need to know about U.S. foreign aid for Zimbabwe.

Weather Patterns Exacerbate Suffering in Zimbabwe

The Global Hunger Index has identified severe food insecurity in Zimbabwe that has only worsened with persistent droughts. Considering the existing food insecurity in the country, the El Niño weather patterns and the subsequent droughts plaguing sub-Saharan countries have worsened an already severe situation of food insecurity in Zimbabwe. Throughout the 2024 October-May agricultural season, around 80% of Zimbabwe received reduced rainfall, which resulted in the loss of almost 70% of crops across the country. Consequently, the Government of Zimbabwe has predicted that around 6 million citizens will require food assistance in the coming months.

Additionally, hits to the agricultural sector have numerous implications for Zimbabweans’ economy and general livelihoods. Thus, changes in weather patterns imply more than just elevated rates of food insecurity; they can also have resounding impacts across multiple sectors of the country’s infrastructure. The International Trade Administration (ITA), a subsection of the United States Department of Commerce, addresses the importance of the agricultural sector for Zimbabwe’s economy by stating that “Zimbabwe’s economic growth potential largely depends on developments in its agricultural sector.” The farming industry in the country is responsible for millions of jobs, 30% of export earnings, 15% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and the livelihoods of more than 60% of the population of Zimbabwe heavily rely on the success 

USAID’s Plan for Improvement

USAID recognizes agriculture’s critical role in the economy of Zimbabwe and has prioritized foreign aid to the nation for many years. Most recently, USAID announced $39 million in aid to help Zimbabwe address the impacts of weather change on its agriculture, bringing the total foreign assistance for the 2024 fiscal year to $62 million. In 2019 and 2020, USAID provided $86.9 million to combat food insecurity caused by droughts during the 2019-2020 agricultural season.

With the recently announced $39 million in aid from USAID, humanitarian partners will have the funding to support more than 500,000 severely food-insecure people during the 2024/2025 lean season. USAID partners provide food assistance in response to drought impacts, distribute supplies and livestock and improve water quality and sanitation for both consumption and agriculture, making a significant difference for thousands of Zimbabweans facing extreme food insecurity.

Final Note

Zimbabwe has frequently faced severe food insecurity due to its heavy reliance on agriculture for sustenance and economic stability. Weather changes have significantly disrupted everyday life in recent years, prompting USAID to provide critical funding to support the country’s humanitarian partners. In 2018 and 2019, droughts caused substantial crop losses during the agricultural season, leading to similar nationwide consequences as those seen in the 2023-2024 season. These recurring weather patterns have exacerbated Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to food insecurity, underscoring the ongoing need for support from USAID and other foreign aid initiatives.

– Juliana Granville

Juliana is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UNICEF Supports Children in Liberia

UNICEF Supports Children in Liberia 20 Years After the Civil WarIn Liberia, more than 20 years have passed since the second civil war ended in Aug. 2003. Yet, the younger population continues to be deeply affected by the consequences of the conflict, in particular the use of child soldiers. All sides initially deployed children because they were cheap and obedient, making them easy to exploit. Often heavily drugged, these children could constitute up to 50% of the fighting forces.

The Lasting Impact on Former Child Soldiers

A BBC interview with a former child soldier, Miatta, reveals how her childhood was traumatized by the war. At only 14 years old, she was forced to kill. The hurt she endured led her to fall victim to drugs and sex work in her later teenage years, a fate which, sadly, is often met by many child soldiers. Miatta’s story is a testimony to how the livelihoods and futures of a young generation are haunted by this conflict. A UNICEF report reveals that Liberia is witnessing a growing population, with 63% under 25 years old. Yet statistics drawn by Save the Children reveal that challenges still prevail, with 50% of children out of school and 32% suffering from malnutrition. 

UNICEF’s Pivotal Role in Child Protection

UNICEF’s involvement has been crucial in supporting children born into poverty in Liberia. The organization began its efforts in 1986 with a focus on child protection. Additionally, they have financially assisted the government with projects aimed at supporting youth. UNICEF advocates for laws that ensure the safety and rehabilitation of children in violent situations. A key achievement is the passage of the Children’s Law in 2011, which explicitly defines the human rights entitled to children. UNICEF also champions the protection of children’s rights from birth, emphasizing the importance of birth registration to ensure their access to services and legal protections.

UNICEF collaborates with several organizations, including Save the Children and Catholic groups like Don Bosco Homes, to support Liberia’s recovery. During the Ebola outbreak, Save the Children notably provided foster homes and educational kits to ensure the health and education of children. Liberia continues to grapple with the scars left by its civil wars and the traumatic use of child soldiers. Issues like violence, drug use, malnutrition and poverty persist among the youth. However, the dedicated efforts of these organizations, especially UNICEF, offer a glimmer of hope for the future generations of Liberia.

Looking Ahead

Despite the end of Liberia’s civil wars more than two decades ago, the nation still faces significant challenges in rebuilding its society. This is particularly so in the case of supporting its youth. UNICEF, alongside other organizations, continues to play a critical role in addressing the needs of children in Liberia. They focus on protection, education and health. Furthermore, with ongoing efforts to improve living conditions and ensure the rights of every child, these initiatives aim to help Liberia’s young population recover from the lingering effects of conflict and build a brighter future.

– Grace Sammartini

Grace is based in Rome, Italy and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Improving Health Care in Somalia

Health Care in SomaliaHealthcare has become a critical issue for Somalia. With only one government hospital in the capital, many residents are forced to pay substantial amounts for health care. Additionally, health care services are more accessible in urban areas than in rural regions, creating a disparity between these sectors. By 2024, Somalia had also encountered numerous humanitarian challenges exacerbated by poverty. This has included natural disasters such as droughts and severe flooding in 2023, which devastated crops and infrastructure. However, several organizations are working to rebuild Somalia, focusing on improving its health care system.

Medair

Medair provides free health and nutrition services to those who cannot afford care, significantly reducing mortality and morbidity rates, especially among children. It has also integrated health services with education on disease prevention to improve overall community health. Additionally, recognizing the impact of family issues like domestic violence, family separation and child labor on mental health, Medair has established child-friendly spaces in Somalia. These spaces offer a supportive environment where children can receive therapy and other assistance to alleviate stress.

For instance, Medair has been invaluable for people like Fadumo and her son Hassan. Their family relies on the father’s income as a construction worker, insufficient to cover their health care needs. With few hospitals accessible due to general shortages in Somalia, Medair’s support has been crucial. Fadumo joined the malnutrition program for pregnant mothers, which helped her regain her strength. Her son, who was also malnourished, received prompt treatment and was able to recover.

International Committee of the Red Cross

In extreme natural disasters like droughts, families in Somalia often struggle to reach the nearest hospital. To address this challenge, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works to improve access to health care. The ICRC supports four hospitals and 27 primary care centers in Somalia, ensuring they are adequately staffed to prevent check-up delays. Additionally, the organization provides material assistance by ensuring health care facilities have access to clean water and the necessary tools to address malnutrition. The ICRC also offers rapid support for patients who are shot or severely injured.

The ICRC also engages with local citizens to ensure their safety and protection, particularly during conflict. In response to large-scale armed attacks or the use of explosives, the ICRC has a designated plan and delivery strategy to provide extensive support and prioritize care for the most severely wounded.

Somalia’s First Aid and Pre-Hospital Emergency Care program facilitates comprehensive pre-hospital care by recruiting staff and ensuring the correct delivery of medicine. Additionally, the program offers first aid training for communities, empowering individuals to contribute to improving their community’s overall safety and health.

Somali Universal Health Coverage

After three decades of conflict, health care in Somalia has significantly deteriorated, with up to 70% of the population living in poverty. Recognizing the need for improvement, the government has prioritized primary health care as a crucial initiative to enhance community health. This approach aims to provide comprehensive care for individuals throughout their lives, ensuring the highest quality of treatment. Somalia has undertaken several key actions to advance toward universal health coverage.

First, a coordination system was established to ensure adequate staffing at every district level and monitor hospital medicine availability. Emergency preparedness is a critical component of Somali Universal Health Coverage; one approach includes strengthening warning systems to allocate health services before sudden droughts or floods impact food supplies. Additionally, the role of the Ministry of Health has been expanded to regulate better and finance these initiatives effectively.

Final Note

Somalia’s health care system, severely impacted by decades of conflict and high poverty rates, has seen some improvements through various initiatives. Efforts by organizations like Medair and the ICRC, along with government-led actions such as enhanced coordination and emergency preparedness, are working to address critical health needs and provide essential services. Despite progress, significant challenges remain, highlighting the need for comprehensive support and development in Somalia’s health care sector.

– Linda Yoonseo Lee

Linda is based in Phoenix, AZ, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Aid in Yemen: Three Charities Providing Support

aid in yemenAs the civil war in Yemen remains ongoing, so does the world’s largest humanitarian crisis. Since 2014, violence offset by the civil war has led to the deaths of 377,000 people in Yemen, including 10,000 children, as of 2022. The impact of the violence reflects through the depletion of resources and economic collapse, leaving 23.4 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and 17.4 million without stable access to food. The rate of malnutrition in children is also incredibly concerning, with estimates suggesting that every 10 minutes a child will lose their life through malnutrition.

Aid in Yemen

UNICEF report from August 2024 suggests that acute malnutrition in Yemen is “rapidly increasing.” It states that the rate of acute malnutrition in Yemen threatens to surge during the lean-season months between July and October, where agricultural activity is minimal. Continuing the provision of aid in Yemen is therefore more important than ever. Numerous charities are doing crucial work to ensure the delivery of aid in Yemen. Islamic Relief Worldwide, Doctors without Borders and Yemen Relief U.K. are all notable examples of charities whose ongoing work is incredibly important, particularly during these critical upcoming months.

Islamic Relief Worldwide

Founded in 1984, Islamic Relief Worldwide is one of the world’s largest relief and development charities and provided £193 million worth of aid in 2022 alone.

Islamic Relief has been active in Yemen since 1998, having strengthened its programming significantly since the outbreak of the civil war. The organization has helped 800,000 people gain access to safe drinking water, providing support for children and establishing 167 new health facilities in the country. Islamic Relief provided food aid in Yemen to at least 2 million people each month until the World Food Programme (WFP) paused its food distribution into the northern regions of Yemen last December.

Doctors Without Borders

Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders first started in 1971 in France. MSF provides medical care in situations of unprecedented humanitarian disaster, including during disease outbreaks, natural disasters and conflict. It takes care to be impartial in providing medical care and prioritizing assistance to those most in need. It is currently active in more than 70 countries across the world

In 2023, MSF provided significant medical aid in Yemen, supporting 17 hospitals and 18 health facilities across the country. This includes the support of feeding centres in response to the rising rates of acute malnutrition. For instance, they expanded the therapeutic feeding centre in Abs General Hospital in Hajjah from 45 beds to 88. https://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/what-we-do/where-we-work/yemen

A recent MSF publication describes how a health care facility in the neglected mountain town of Mafraq Al Mokha now provides care free of charge, thanks to the support of MSF since 2022.

Yemen Relief UK

Yemen Relief U.K. is a U.K.-based charity solely that focuses on providing humanitarian assistance, alleviating poverty and easing suffering in Yemen. It undertakes several programs and projects to provide support.

It provides a charity bakery through the support of donors, supplying bread to thousands of families daily to tackle food insecurity. Yemen Relief also provides food packs and clean water wells through the support of donors. In Yemen, 1.1 million children have lost a parent in the ongoing conflict, leaving many dependent on humanitarian aid to survive. Willing donors can also sponsor an orphan through Yemen Relief U.K.

Willing donors can also sponsor an orphan through Yemen Relief UK. 1.1 million children have lost a parent in the ongoing conflict, leaving many dependent on humanitarian aid to survive. https://www.yemenrelief.org.uk/yemen-orphan-sponsorship/

The Future of Aid in Yemen

As UNICEF highlights, the continued support of Yemen is crucial in the next couple of months when acute malnutrition threatens to rise.

The rising rate of malnutrition can be mitigated if charities such as Islamic Relief, MSF and Yemen Relief U.K. continue to be supported in providing medical care and aid in Yemen. These charities, among many others, have already had a positive impact on the livelihoods of thousands of families in Yemen. The world’s largest humanitarian crisis has been devastating, yet there is hope for Yemen’s future thanks to the continued charitable work and support being done in the country.

– Joshua Marriott

Joshua is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Poverty Through Education in the Middle East

Education in the Middle EastEducation is a key determinant of economic stability and growth. In the Middle East, where poverty levels are high, access to education can significantly affect an individual’s economic prospects. According to Maher Hamoud, a professor of political economy at the University of Leuven, Belgium, “People tend to be easily manipulated when the level of education is low.” However, the relationship between education and poverty is not merely about individual empowerment; it also affects broader sociopolitical dynamics.

Hamoud notes that “a serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation” to see significant societal changes. Unfortunately, the political instability in many Middle Eastern countries often disrupts long-term developmental planning, leading to inconsistent progress. For example, the 1967 Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel severely interrupted Egypt’s educational programs, demonstrating how conflict can derail efforts to improve schooling and, by extension, economic stability.

Current Educational Programs

Several initiatives throughout the region aim to address disparities. The World Bank’s Arabic Initiative focuses on improving the quality of education in the Middle East. This program emphasizes curriculum development, teacher training and technology integration in the classroom to provide students with the skills needed to compete in a globalized economy.

Amideast is another crucial player in the region. It offers academic opportunities that promote cross-cultural understanding and scholarly achievement. By providing professional training, English language instruction and scholarships, Amideast helps students from underprivileged backgrounds access quality education and improve their economic prospects. The organization’s initiatives have benefitted more than 1,900 exchange and scholarship students and empowered 19,000 youths and women through special programs.

Save the Children, known for its work in crises, has also been instrumental in the Middle East. The organization runs programs that provide schooling to youth in conflict zones, ensuring that even in the most challenging circumstances, young people have the opportunity to learn. These initiatives are crucial in regions where conflict and displacement have disrupted traditional education systems.

New Possibilities to Bridge the Inequality Gap

While existing programs have made significant strides, much work still exists to ensure all youth have access to quality education in the Middle East. One promising approach is the implementation of cash transfer programs, which provide financial incentives for families to keep their children in school. Cash transfer programs give money to increase a household’s income, reduce poverty and improve well-being. They have been successful in other regions and could help reduce economic barriers in the Middle East.

Investments from governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are also essential. Hamoud highlights the importance of sustained efforts, noting that “governments tend to avoid seriously investing in education.” He points to examples like Singapore, Malaysia and Kuwait, where long-term investment in education has led to significant improvements. Similar commitments in the Middle East could yield substantial benefits, facilitating a more educated and economically stable population.

Digital solutions offer another route for expanding educational access. Online learning platforms, mobile teaching initiatives and cyber classrooms can reach students in remote areas or conflict zones. These technologies can also standardize education across the region, ensuring that all students have access to the same high-quality resources. Despite physical and logistical challenges, today’s technology offers avenues to bridge inequality.

Looking Forward

Access to education in the Middle East is critical in reducing poverty levels. While current programs have made significant contributions, there is still a need for innovative solutions and sustained investment. With new possibilities such as cash transfers, investments and digital solutions, the region can work toward a future where every child can receive a quality education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Hamoud pointed out, “A serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation.” With the right strategies, the Middle East can make significant strides toward alleviating poverty and achieving long-term economic stability.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ray of Hope for Visually Impaired Women in Afghanistan

Women in AfghanistanAfghanistan, a country in Central Asia, has been affected by conflict for at least five decades. Years of war have not only destroyed the country’s infrastructure but have also had a profound impact on the physical and mental health of its inhabitants, as well as deteriorated the human rights situation, especially for women in Afghanistan.

Disabilities in Afghanistan

The prevalence of disabilities in Afghanistan has seen a significant increase, primarily attributed to the ongoing conflict, widespread destruction and the lack of accessible medical facilities. The 2019 Model Disability Survey revealed that around 80% of the population aged 18 and above experiences some form of disability, with women disproportionately affected, experiencing a 14.9% higher impact compared to men. Afghanistan has one of the highest numbers of people with any form of disability per capita in the world. This situation is exacerbated by widespread poverty, limited access to education and health care, minimal job opportunities and cultural stigmatization.

Visual Impairment

A report published by The Fred Hollows Foundation has estimated that 1.5 million individuals in Afghanistan are living with some form of visual impairment, with 600,000 of them experiencing complete blindness. A report published in The Kabul Times has indicated that many of these individuals are women. This data underscores the significant impact of visual impairment, particularly among women, in Afghanistan.

In Afghanistan, women face substantial discrimination. They are particularly vulnerable due to limited access to education, minimal job opportunities and economic freedom. These challenges are exacerbated when women also have a disability, as they face even greater levels of marginalization and discrimination in the form of physical and emotional abuse and social isolation.

Ray of Hope

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in partnership with the Welfare Association for the Development of Afghanistan (WADAN), has launched a project in two provinces in eastern Afghanistan. The project focuses on teaching braille, basic math and essential life skills such as cooking and using a cane. Additionally, the project provides psychosocial counseling to empower women to address daily societal challenges and confront violence. In 2022, the project benefited 90 women, with another 200 women currently enrolled, offering them hope for the future. UNHCR and WADAN plan to expand the program further.

The Rayhab School for Children with Disabilities is another initiative supporting disabled Afghans. The school offers primary education, food and transportation for blind, deaf and speech-impaired boys and girls from impoverished families in Kabul. The school welcomes more than 400 children daily, with 40% of them being girls.

The current efforts to address the situation in Afghanistan are commendable, yet they are insufficient compared to the enormity of the issue. Despite this, they serve as a beacon of hope for millions impacted. 

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Japan and focuses on Good News, Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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6 Things to Know about Vietnam’s Economic Development

Vietnam’s Economic DevelopmentVietnam’s economy is steadily growing, with remarkable development following decades of economic reform and strategic investments. Once an underdeveloped nation, Vietnam has significantly reduced poverty. This economic growth is driven by reforms, industrialization, infrastructure development and improved access to education and health care.

Doi Moi

Vietnam implemented the Doi Moi reforms in 1986, transitioning from a strictly communist economy toward a more open market with socialist influences. Before these reforms, the country was considered “underdeveloped.” The Doi Moi reforms modernized Vietnam’s trade economy, setting the foundation for its subsequent economic boom.

Industrialization and Infrastructure Development

Industrialization in Vietnam began in the early ’90s and continues today, driving economic development as the country transitions from a primarily agricultural economy to a more diversified and advanced industrialized one. Vietnam now manufactures products such as cars, electronics and textiles. Between 2020 and now, the country’s manufacturing, construction, services and industrial sectors grew from 81.1% to 85.2%.

Investment in public infrastructure has been one of the fundamental driving forces behind Vietnam’s economic development in recent decades. The country has mainly focused on roads, airports and seaports. Private and public investment in infrastructure has accounted for as much as 5.7% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in recent years. This is the second highest in all of Asia, following China.

Better Access to Education

Since gaining independence in 1945, Vietnam has prioritized education and reduced illiteracy rates. Today, the country places even greater emphasis on improving education. In 2002, the government allocated 3.9% of its GDP to education, which increased to 6.3% by 2014. Vietnam has enhanced access to education by ensuring universal preschool education through public spending and engaging communities and the private sector. The country has also improved learning outcomes, with Vietnamese students outperforming the average students in Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries.

In 2012, Vietnamese youth ranked 8th in science, 17th in mathematics and 19th in reading out of 65 countries. The Vietnamese government also prioritizes equity in education, contributing to these high learning outcomes. The central government allocates more funding per capita to geographically disadvantaged provinces and teachers in these areas are paid more than those working in cities. Vietnam’s progress in education has been a critical factor in its ranking of 48 out of 157 countries on the Human Capital Index.

Better Access to Health Care

Along with the economic growth, the health of the Vietnamese people has improved between 1990 and 2020. Life expectancy grew from 69 to 75. The aged than 5 child mortality rate decreased from 30 to 21 per 1000 live births. While the health care system has improved significantly in the past decades, Vietnam stands before an inevitable challenge: it has one of the fastest-growing aging populations in Asia.

Looking Forward

Vietnam’s transition from a centrally planned to a market economy has transformed it from one of the poorest countries in the world into a lower-middle-income nation. Since the Doi Moi reforms, GDP per capita has increased sixfold. Economic growth is projected to reach 5.5% by the end of 2024. Vietnam aims to become a high-income country by 2045, requiring an average annual growth rate of about 6% per capita to achieve this goal.

Vietnam has experienced significant development over the past few decades, with investments in health and human skills playing a central role in this progress and delivering substantial economic benefits. Despite this development, the country faces significant social issues. Vietnam is dealing with an aging population, persistent inequalities in the education sector and ongoing economic effects from the pandemic. Like many other countries, Vietnam’s economy faced a downturn in 2023 due to post-pandemic challenges. However, Vietnam’s economic development is now on the rise again.

– Sigrid Nyhammer

Sigrid is based in Bergen, Norway and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Organizations Helping Guatemala’s Elderly Population

Guatemala’s Elderly PopulationGuatemala has among the highest poverty rates in Latin America and Guatemala’s elderly population is among the most vulnerable. In Guatemala, poverty was estimated at 55.1% of the population in 2023. According to the most recent data, Guatemala has serious public health issues. A third of the population suffers from health problems, such as chronic illnesses, malnourishment and limited access to health care. Nearly 1 million people in Guatemala are 60 years of age or older and a sizable percentage of them experience health issues.

Furthermore, more than 60% of the elderly population in Guatemala live in poverty. These staggering numbers are particularly alarming given the lack of a comprehensive social security system that provides financial stability to the country’s older people. Recognizing this struggle, several organizations and local communities have stepped up to create programs and initiatives that address the economic, medical and emotional needs of older people in Guatemala.

The Pan American Health Organization

In 2018, under the “Take Control of Your Health Initiative,” Don Manuel and other adults from San Jose la Communidad, Mixco, attended weekly health workshops led by trainers trained by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The initiative aims to help participants manage chronic illnesses like hypertension and diabetes. Participants are taught how to control their blood pressure, eat healthier, exercise more, and maintain strong social connections.

World Health Organization (WHO) and PAHO representative Oscar Barreneche noted that the “program empowers older adults to take control of their health and prevent life-threatening complications.” More than 2,000 patients have graduated from the initiative since it started in 2015.

International Volunteers HQ

International Volunteers HQ is another noteworthy organization that has been making a difference since 2007. It stresses the importance of community involvement in supporting elderly individuals. The organization works closely with local leaders and volunteers to identify needy elderly citizens and provide them with tailored support.

One of its essential programs is a home visitation service, where volunteers visit elderly individuals in their homes. The visitors offer companionship, assistance with daily tasks and monitoring their health. This initiative ensures that older people are cared for while strengthening community bonds as younger generations learn the value of caring for older people. In 2023, the organization’s volunteers dedicated 111,149 hours to care for seniors in 27 countries, including Guatemala.

A Brighter Future for Guatemala’s Elderly

Although the challenges facing older adults of Guatemala are significant, the solutions emerging across the country offer hope. Organizations like the PAHO and International Volunteers HQ are leading the way in providing essential services and advocating for the rights of older people. Moreover, local communities are also showcasing that even small grassroots initiatives can substantially impact the lives of older people.

These efforts are not just about providing immediate or short-term relief. They restore dignity, foster a sense of community and ensure that all elderly in Guatemala can live their final years with care, dignity and respect. As these programs continue to expand, they inspire others to follow suit, increasing the prospects of a brighter future for Guatemala’s elderly population.

– Irtija Ahmad

Irtija is based in Slough, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Peace as Precursor to Eradicating Poverty in Colombia

Peace as Precursor to Eradicating Poverty in ColombiaAfter Colombian voters rejected the Peace Agreement Referendum in 2016, billed as the final effort to establish lasting peace between the government and extremist gangs and guerrilla movements, several groups declared conditional ceasefires. These ceasefires have partially alleviated violence against civilian populations. Poverty in Colombia remains a pressing issue amid these challenges.

Impact of Conflict on Poverty and Infrastructure

By 2030, more than 60% of individuals experiencing extreme poverty will reside in fragile conflict zones. In these areas, violent conflicts harm people and destroy essential infrastructure, housing and food systems, potentially leading to severe human disasters. Such events consistently trigger significant regional economic disruptions that can lead to widespread unemployment and food crises. The United Nations (U.N.) emphasizes that peace is not merely a goal but a necessary precursor to development. Several relief organizations are actively responding to disasters stemming directly from conflicts, which underscores the vital role of peace in development.

Challenges in Peace Implementation

Peace development in areas lacking legitimate treaties to cease violence often remains under the control of local militia and military leaders. Colombia is actively implementing the initially failed treaty and, as of 2021, had completed 23% of the implementation process. Despite this, significant progress remains elusive; the budget proposed nearly 15 years ago is now considered insufficient, and efforts to advance rural land development have stalled.

Environmental and Agricultural Challenges

Colombia is facing a significant increase in desertification, a situation worsened by the country’s long-standing political violence. This has led to a considerable loss of essential forest land and has left rural farmland riddled with environmental and human hazards. A specific man-made danger involves the undocumented landmines scattered across the Colombian countryside. Research indicates that peace in Colombia has shielded rural civilians from becoming collateral victims of environmental warfare.

Beyond the impact of anonymous landmine placements and targeted violence by local militia groups against rural farmers, Colombian farmers have become significantly less productive. This decrease in productivity has led to rising food prices, further poverty in Colombia and increased urban contention. The situation has worsened as large numbers of rural Colombians have started migrating to cities and urban centers, seeking to escape the violence that pervades the countryside.

The Road to Peaceful Development

As peace has gradually taken hold, most plans for rural areas focus on repopulating the countryside and boosting agricultural production. The International Center for Tropical Agriculture has developed a policy to establish sustainable land use systems in rural Colombia, aiming to build a more sustainable agricultural sector. However, despite the implementation of several policies and programs to redevelop the land, violence against environmental activists increased between 2010 and 2019. This violence has disrupted environmental program implementation and indicated that unofficial violence in these areas persists.

Among the initiatives from the original 2016 agreements, implementing programs to rebuild the fragmented landscape of the Colombian countryside has proved challenging due to ongoing violence against activists from local factions. Colombia exemplifies why peace is essential for sustainable development; merely stopping violence is insufficient. Although the 2016 agreements mark a significant step forward, the implementation process—intended to rebuild in the wake of peace—is being obstructed by violence and targeted attacks on both civilians and activists.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to rebuild Colombia’s rural areas face significant challenges due to ongoing violence and threats against environmental activists. Despite the 2016 peace agreements, progress has been slow, with only 23% of the implementation process completed by 2021. Poverty in Colombia remains a pressing issue, exacerbated by the continued violence that hinders sustainable development, particularly in agriculture. This situation underscores the critical need for effective peacebuilding to achieve long-term stability and economic growth in the country.

– Jamie Sackett

Jamie is based in Hutto, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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GMB Akash: Capturing Stories of Real-Life Heroes in Photos

GMB Akash: Capturing Stories of Real-Life Heroes Through PhotographyGMB Akash is a Bangladeshi photojournalist. He launched his career with a profound goal: to spotlight the resilience and hardships of marginalized communities through his photography. After winning numerous international awards, Akash uses his camera to create art and drive social change. His journey began with his father’s old camera, which opened doors to the hidden struggles within society. He specializes in street photography, capturing the raw, unpolished essence of daily life for those facing the greatest adversities. His work has gained recognition in National Geographic, TIME and The Guardian. Akash’s significant project, the book “Survivors,” represents a decade of work and helps support the subjects of his photographs by funneling proceeds back to the communities he features.

A Glimpse into GMB Akash’s Work

Akash’s photography offers an intimate look into the lives of the underprivileged, capturing their challenges and achievements. His ongoing series, “Dreams of Child Laborers,” exposes the difficult realities of children who work long hours for minimal pay. His “Mothers: Angels on Earth” series honors the relentless determination of mothers striving to support their families. In a unique approach, his “Feet Tell Stories” series features photographs of laborers’ feet, illustrating their daily hardships. The “Women in Bangladesh” series presents poignant narratives that compel viewers to rethink their views on poverty and resilience. These projects underscore Akash’s commitment to using his photography to amplify the voices of those often overlooked, portraying their enduring spirit and vibrant humanity despite facing adversity.

Akash founded the First Light Institute of Photography in Bangladesh in August 2013. This institute draws hundreds of students globally, eager to learn from his expertise. In 2023, he launched an exclusive One-on-One Photography Workshop, which has garnered excellent reviews. Participants from Germany, the USA, Spain and Indonesia have attended the program. Akash uses the proceeds from these educational endeavors to fund basic education for street children, underprivileged talented students and child laborers, furthering his mission to uplift those in need.

A Commitment to Action

Akash believes that photography can be a catalyst for positive change. He isn’t content with simply documenting hardship; he actively seeks ways to improve the lives of his subjects. Through his social media and blog, he shares stories of the people he meets and chronicles his initiatives to support them. These ongoing initiatives include providing education for child laborers, micro-loans to help people start businesses, gifting bicycles to students to commute, building water wells and giving wheelchairs to disabled children.

In 2012, GMB Akash published his book Survivors, the result of a 10-year project that showcases powerful stories of resilience and strength. The prestigious Geo magazine reviewed the book, highlighting its impact. He has dedicated the proceeds from the book and related exhibitions to help the individuals featured in it. Akash personally trains and monitors them as they set up small businesses, aiming to make them and their families self-sufficient.

Moving Forward

GMB Akash’s work goes beyond photography; it actively contributes to the well-being of the communities he documents. By using the proceeds from his projects to fund education, start small businesses and provide essential resources, Akash ensures that his subjects receive tangible benefits from their stories being told. His commitment to using photography as a tool for social change highlights the profound impact that visual storytelling can have in advocating for and improving the lives of marginalized individuals.

– Sumaiya Sultana

Sumaiya is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr