Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Nongovernmental Organizations Operating in Kiribati

Nongovernmental Organizations Operating in KiribatiThe United Nations (U.N.) currently lists Kiribati as a Least Developed Country (LDC). The U.N. defines an LDC as one that requires significant international aid to assist its development. This designation is based on three main criteria: an average income below $1,080, a low score on the Human Asset Index, an index designed to assess multiple factors in a country’s education and health outcomes and a high score on the Economic and Environmental Vulnerability Index. Additionally, the designation must be accepted by the country.

Kiribati has made significant strides in its goal of graduating from this distinction and meeting the economic threshold. However, concerns exist regarding its ability to survive independently without the support of the U.N. Situations like this are when the efforts of NGOs become crucial. With volunteer efforts working within Kiribati on a daily basis to provide its citizens with critical, potentially life-saving information, Kiribati can, in turn, place a greater emphasis on not only meeting its goal of graduation but on progressing the country’s development in order to continue the positive strides it has already made.

Nongovernmental Organizations Operating in Kiribati

The impact of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) can be felt worldwide. In developing countries like Kiribati, homegrown efforts often arise to make drastic strides in the fight for good. Here are seven nongovernmental organizations operating in Kiribati.

KANGO

The Kiribati Association of NGOs (KANGO) helps to enact the Kiribati Vision 20 plan, a 20-year development program for the betterment of the islands. One way it does this is via one of the many workshops it holds on the island. In these workshops, participants are first educated about the Kiribati Vision 20 plan. The plan is a blueprint for the country’s long-term development goals and the U.N.’s sustainable development goals (SDGs) for Kiribati.

After the lecture, participants participated in activities, including weaving, sewing and making local handicrafts. Though it may seem pedestrian on the surface, learning to craft in this manner helps the community achieve Kiribati’s SDGs by allowing even the unemployed to contribute to the economy.

ICAAD

The International Center for Advocates Against Discrimination (ICAAD) is an advocacy group working within Kiribati to support marginalized communities on the islands. These include the indigenous peoples of Rabi island, the Banaban people. A primary goal of the ICAAD is to ensure that the voices of the native population are heard. Methods it uses to achieve this goal include artivism projects and interviews with members of the population. Highlighting and elevating the stories of these groups serves to pass on their memories and traditions to future generations, a value that can’t be calculated on a chart.

KFHA

The Kiribati Family Health Association (KFHA) works to provide crucial information and resources regarding family planning and sexual health. In addition to this, it advocates for social justice programs for marginalized groups across Kiribati. By hosting programs relating to reproductive health, critical information can be delivered to those in need of it. The most marginalized communities can receive the tools needed to thrive in times of crisis.

KTU

The Kiribati Teachers Union advocates on behalf of teachers across the islands. Providing a voice for a sector of society that is all too often overlooked, the KTU serves as an organization that can organize, negotiate and advocate on behalf of teachers across the islands. In addition, there are also separate wings of the union, including one dedicated to improving conditions for women teachers and one dedicated to those younger than 35.

Teitoiningaina

Teitoiningaina is a group dedicated to providing women on the island with crucial knowledge and resources regarding subsistence methods. Due to scarce water availability, many in Kiribati rely on water tanks for daily subsistence. In these workshops hosted by Teitoiningaina, composting techniques are among the methods taught to produce greater yields of crops. Attendees are given the ability and knowledge to better provide for their families.

KiriCAN

The Kiribati Climate Action Network (KiriCAN) is an NGO dedicated to raising awareness of the nation’s unique climate struggles. Given the Island’s location, climate and weather concerns are often crucial to its development. Mitigating the potential issues faced by its remoteness is key to the Island’s prosperity. Kirican has a long history of cleanup efforts and educational programs and its efforts to advocate for the planet are well appreciated.

Lifebox Foundation

The Lifebox Foundation, an NGO dedicated to distributing lifesaving medical equipment across the world, has a branch focused on Oceania that operates in Kiribati. Its initial goal was to distribute Pulse Oximeters to underserved communities. Though it has since expanded from this initial goal during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lifebox Foundation demonstrated that this was still a crucial point of its operation.

Pulse oximeters are critical to COVID-19 relief efforts, as a potentially life-threatening symptom of the disease is Hypoxia or an absence of oxygen in the blood. The best tool to detect this lack of oxygen is a pulse oximeter. During the relief efforts, the Lifebox Foundation distributed more than 100 pulse oximeters to medical centers across Oceania, including Kiribati. The help of the Lifebox Foundation was key in such a critical time for Kiribati. Without it, many patients would have been left without this crucial piece of lifesaving kit.

Final Remark

These are just a few ways NGOs can impact the local Kiribati community by directly targeting key issues in the island nation. By addressing these issues on a community level, Kiribati can see its broader goals met in due time. Suppose the finish line is graduating from the LCD status. In that case, nongovernmental organizations operating in Kiribati will be the fuel needed to propel the country to its development goals.

– Malik Vega

Malik is based in Florida, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Affordable Eye Care: The Aravind Eye Care System

The Aravind Eye Care SystemIn a world where quality health care often comes with a hefty price tag, the Aravind Eye Care System shines as a remarkable exception. Founded in 1976 by the visionary Dr. Govindappa Venkataswamy, this institution has transformed from a modest 11-bed facility into a vast network dedicated to affordable, high-quality eye care.

About Venkataswamy

Venkataswamy, fondly known as “Dr. V,” was born on October 1, 1918, in Vadamalapuram, Tamil Nadu In, India. After earning his medical degree from Stanley Medical College in 1944, he served in the Indian Army Medical Corps. However, Venkataswamy retired early due to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Undeterred, he specialized in Ophthalmology and went on to perform more than 100,000 successful eye surgeries. Additionally, Venkataswamy introduced innovative programs to combat blindness in India, including outreach camps and an ophthalmic assistants training program. In 1973, he was awarded the Padmashree by the Government of India for his contributions.

Aravind Eye Hospital

Aravind Eye Hospital was established by Venkataswamy without any initial capital, business plan or safety net, relying primarily on faith in its mission to eliminate needless blindness. Since its inception, Aravind has expanded to include seven tertiary centers, seven secondary centers, six community eye clinics, 80 vision centers and eye banks. The Postgraduate Institute of Ophthalmology and the Lions Aravind Institute of Community Ophthalmology provide essential training. At the same time, Aurolab manufactures affordable, high-quality ophthalmic consumables exported to more than 160 countries.

In the 2022-23 year, Aravind performed more than 704,000 surgeries and had more than 5.7 million outpatient visits. Remarkably, more than 50% of these surgeries were provided either free or at highly subsidized rates to people experiencing poverty. This is made possible via the earnings from paying patients. Aravind’s efficient service delivery and innovative practices, such as an “assembly line” system in operating rooms, enable doctors to perform a high volume of surgeries while maintaining exceptional quality.

Furthermore, Aravind’s outreach program, supported by organizations like Lions Clubs International and Rotary International, extends its services to villages lacking eye care facilities. The model, originally focused on cataract screenings, now provides comprehensive eye exams and necessary treatments, bringing those requiring surgery to the base hospital for free procedures.

Sustainability and Innovation

Aravind has optimized patient care practices to reduce its carbon footprint. Spectacle delivery times and transport emissions have been significantly reduced through an innovative online selection and central lab fitting process. The hospital’s energy-efficient buildings, solar plant and sustainable dining services further align its social, environmental and financial goals.

Enhancing Productivity

Recognizing the scarcity and cost of ophthalmologists, Aravind reassigned routine tasks to mid-level ophthalmic personnel, boosting the productivity of ophthalmologists by more than four times. Medical schools and business schools worldwide have replicated this innovative approach. Moreover, Aravind now provides consultancy services and training to eye hospitals and personnel globally.

Conclusion: A Model for Global Health

Aravind Eye Care System stands as a testament to the power of innovative, compassionate health care. By transforming how eye care is delivered, Aravind not only provides sight to millions but also serves as a model for sustainable health care worldwide. As Aravind continues to expand its reach, the foundation’s vision of eradicating needless blindness and fostering a healthier world becomes increasingly tangible.

– Sandeep Kaur

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

Photo: Flickr

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Improving Waste Management in Southeast Asia

Waste Management in Southeast AsiaThe growth of Southeast Asia in recent decades has been startling. This growth has improved the economies and living conditions in the region and has contributed to reduced poverty rates. However, the rapid expansion of industry and population size has resulted in huge waste production. Six of the top 10 countries with the highest polluting levels are in Southeast Asia. The countries have inadequate waste management systems and are not capable of handling large quantities of waste.

Waste Management in Southeast Asia

Currently, landfills are used, which are not sustainable due to the increasing amount of land mass needed daily. The region is the fastest-growing waste generator among the East Asian and Pacific regions. It has produced approximately a fifth of all waste produced globally. Southeast Asia is projected to produce an additional 300 million tonnes by 2030. The region is the main global center for waste imports after China banned unclean waste imports, adding to the overall tonnage of waste. By 2050, plastic waste is projected to be one-tenth of all waste produced, reaching 12,000 million tonnes.

The United Nations Environmental Assembly has identified pollution as the third great environmental crisis of our time. It stresses the need for improved waste management in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). For ASEAN, investing in sustainable processes is a must if it is to continue growing and improving the livelihoods of its population. The sustainability industry is an area of huge interest to investors as it is in its early stages of development.

The Problem with Waste

Poor waste management causes a multitude of problems, including health risks, pollution, resource depletion, economic losses and environmental degradation. Harmful diseases are spread in areas of inadequate waste management, threatening public health. Economic losses occur as resources are used inefficiently to handle the waste. Subsequently, governments have to act reactively to mitigate the consequences. These consequences of ineffective waste management disproportionately impact people experiencing poverty, who live in the most polluted areas and who feel the effects of poor health and environmental degradation the most.

Finding Solutions with Technology

There is a need for ASEAN to implement more effective waste management strategies to address the consequences laid out above and to promote sustainable development. Innovation and technology are being used to tackle the waste management problem in ASEAN. The gap in the market has drawn sustainable start-ups and investors to the region. Here are three companies that are using technology to improve waste management in ASEAN:

Rezbin

Based in Iloilo in the Philippines, Rezbin won the 2024 ASEAN start-up award. It targets the habit of recycling, providing bins at certain locations where plastic can be donated. Rezbin uses technology to track plastic donations and reward individuals who do. Rezbin’s CEO has stated that it is researching other tech solutions for the waste disposable industry. They hope to move into different areas of the waste value chain in the future.

Octopus

Octopus is a circular economy start-up based in Indonesia. It is a reverse logistics platform that producers can use to track and collect used waste to prevent it from ending up in landfills. The company ensures waste can be collected efficiently, providing incentives for manufacturers to collect and recycle their waste. Octopus hires people who have previously tried to make a living picking plastics for recycling and provides them with a monthly salary. Octopus benefits the ecosystem and individual livelihoods simultaneously.

Magorium

Based in Singapore, Magorium uses technology to convert plastic waste into a material called NEWBitumen, which can be used to build and pave roads. This material can be made from all types of plastic, clean or unclean, reducing the masses of unclean plastic ending up in landfills and cutting out the need to clean all plastics. Magorium provides businesses with the ability to get rid of plastics sustainably without them ending up in landfills, incinerators or the ocean.

The Future

Investment in improving waste management in ASEAN can lead to better outcomes for the region’s economies. The cost of uncollected waste is approximately five times higher than it would be to implement a sustainable waste management system. Start-ups using sustainable technology can help economies implement sustainable waste management systems and create a competitive market focused on sustainable development and waste reduction.

Revenue made from more efficient systems can be reinvested in the local economy and into initiatives tackling poverty. Overall, improving ASEAN’s ability to tackle its waste issue can benefit the poorest of society, who suffer most from the consequences of poor waste management.

– Lauren Alkhalil

Lauren is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Yaks Are Addressing Poverty in Nepal

Addressing Poverty in NepalNepal, recognized as the poorest country in South Asia, had about 20.3% of its population living below the poverty line in 2022, with unemployment projected to reach 19.72% by 2024. An often-overlooked element in the country’s economic landscape is the yak, an animal integral to the economic, religious and cultural fabric of Nepalese society. The yak’s role offers valuable insights into strategies for addressing poverty in Nepal.

The Vital Role of Yaks in Nepal

Yaks play a vital role in supporting life in Nepal, particularly in the harsh, mountainous regions. They provide nutrient-dense milk, butter, cream and cheese, crucial components of the Nepalese diet. Beyond dairy products, yaks supply wool and meat, serve as labor for agriculture and have significant cultural and religious symbolism, particularly among Buddhist communities. In Nepal’s extreme climatic conditions, locals rely on yak dung as a critical fuel source for sustaining life during the winter months.

Economic Contributions of Yak Farming

According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), yaks meet almost all the needs of herdsmen and their families, either directly or through the sale of yak products for income. This highlights the significant role yaks play in Nepal’s economic development. The sale of products derived from yaks, such as dried meat and dairy items, generates essential revenue for agricultural families. Notably, a specific type of Swiss cheese produced in Nepal caters to market demand, providing critical economic support to some of the country’s impoverished communities.

Conservation Efforts and Cultural Importance

Despite their importance, yaks have not always been protected and recent modernization coupled with the abandonment of traditional farming practices has made them increasingly vulnerable. However, conservation efforts in recent years have begun to turn the tide. The previously endangered Wild Yak species has seen some recovery due to various initiatives. For instance, the Himalayan Wolves Project played a crucial role in this recovery by rediscovering the species in 2014 in Limi Valley, Humla district. Furthermore, Joshi Purushotam’s article underscores the crucial role of yak farming in supporting Nepal’s culture, biodiversity and socioeconomic development, emphasizing the need for its preservation.

Looking Ahead

Yaks remain essential to Nepal’s economic and cultural landscape, particularly for agricultural communities in mountainous regions. These animals provide vital resources such as milk, meat, wool and fuel, directly supporting the livelihoods of many Nepalese families. Recent conservation efforts have helped protect the yak population, ensuring its continued contribution to the nation’s development. A sustained focus on yak farming and conservation could be vital for addressing poverty and promoting sustainable economic growth in Nepal.

– Grace Pasqualucci Sammartini

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

Photo: Flickr

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United States Foreign Policy and The Resignation of Josh Paul

Josh PaulOn March 25, 2024, Clint Borgen, the founder of The Borgen Project, interviewed Josh Paul, the former director at the U.S. Department of State in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, as he discussed his resignation and dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war. 

The Israel-Hamas War

On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, a tragedy that deeply affected Josh Paul, as the horrors of the attack and its repercussions on innocent lives made him sick to his stomach. While he acknowledges Israel’s right to defend itself, he could not condone the brutal massacre of Palestinian civilians. His last day at the State Department was on October 18, 2024. 

Three Major Concerns

Paul had three significant concerns that ultimately led to his resignation: 

  1. Scope and Scale of Destruction: He was alarmed by the extensive destruction caused by U.S.-provided weapons to Israel, including both past usage and the further supply of new arms.
  2. Disconnected Policy Premises: Paul expressed his concerns regarding the U.S. policy that still hinged on the viability of the Oslo Accords, which he felt was disconnected from the realities on the ground, such as the siege of Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank. A two-state solution is unlikely as Israeli leaders and a majority of civilians do not support it. 
  3. Lack of Internal Debate: Within the State Department, there seemed to be no interest in discussing the consequences of U.S. actions, particularly regarding Gaza and broader border policy concerns.

Days Leading Up to the Resignation

“Violence will only lead to more violence and more suffering,” Paul said. 

He advocated for a pause and reevaluation of current policies. However, he received mixed responses: while some agreed with him, they also warned that he could be fired and that nothing would change. 

As the days passed and devastation unfolded, Paul’s concerns deepened as he was being asked to approve major arms transfers to Israel. 

“We’re providing the weapons that Israel is using to conduct these operations, but also the diplomatic support that enables Israel to continue to dance above international law and above the United Nations and also the defensive support that protects Israel from Iran, and also the diplomatic encouragement and effort to keep Israel integrated within the region,” explained Paul.

Human Rights Concerns and the Leahy Laws

To provide support for his argument against U.S. participation in Israel’s war with Hamas, Josh Paul highlighted the implications of the Leahy Law, which prohibits the U.S. from providing security assistance to units implicated in human rights violations. He emphasized that urban environments in Gaza were being bombed, intensifying civilian suffering. 

Paul stated, “We’ve seen videos of a child walking with his mother, waving a white flag, and a sniper shooting him.”

Drawing comparisons between the U.S. campaign against ISIS and Israel’s actions in Gaza, Paul noted that the U.S. used far fewer bombs in the overall counter ISIS  campaign, while Israel dropped 22,000 munitions into Gaza within the first few months of the conflict. A task force assessing U.S.-provided weapons in Gaza included Wes J. Bryant, a former Joint Terminal Attack Controller for the U.S. Air Force, who Paul described “had never seen anything like the negligence of Israel’s approach in Gaza.” 

Further, he questioned where the line would be drawn between war and politics, arguing that Israel cannot win the war by bombing Palestinian populations. Attacks such as these only push civilians into joining Hamas. However, it is important to note that there are civilians who do not align themselves with Hamas’ worldview and seek peace and stability in the region. 

Paul noted, “If your family has been wiped out, you might have a bone to pick.”

The Role of AI and Targeting Tactics

Paul discussed Israel’s use of AI systems such as Lavender, which identifies targets based on social media activity,  and “Daddy’s Home,” which strikes targets when they return home to their families. He questioned how Israel defines Hamas, pointing out that the term sometimes includes non-combatants such as humanitarian aid escorts and street cleaners.

Generational Shifts and Political Debate

Paul’s extensive experience working with the State Department, dealing primarily with foreign relations, diplomacy and communications with international countries, has allowed him to observe the generational shift in attitudes towards U.S. relations with Israel, with younger Americans increasingly critical of unconditional support for Israel. This shift, driven by social media and less religious affiliation, contrasts with older generations’ views. 

Paul highlighted the protests on college campuses, and how the administrations’ responses, marked by egregious arrests, angered students’ and prompted retaliation. He recounted a conversation he had with a student at Dartmouth, who shared his perspective on the protests being broken up by riot police. 

“I don’t care about this issue, I don’t see eye to eye with the protestors, but when you start arresting my friends, I’m going to be there the next day,” he stated. 

The Broader Implications

Paul criticized President Joe Biden and his administration, stating, “President Biden has built a reputation on being a man of empathy and compassion, and that empathy and compassion has just been entirely absent for the last seven months when it comes to Palestinian lives.” 

He notes that the conflict has damaged the West’s credibility in maintaining international order and a rule of law, undermining institutions like the International Criminal Court and the United Nations. 

“The United States’ response is going to do damage to our own interests and lead to a world where there is no longer a global standard of international law” stated Paul. 

In order to see change, Josh Paul urges Americans to push the Biden Administration and their members of Congress to take a different approach to the Israel-Hamas War. He reiterated that the only way that the U.S. is going to use its leverage properly is if Americans are pushing Congress to make changes. Paul noted that applying pressure to create change is a marathon, not a sprint and Americans should keep pushing, especially in time for the West Bank.

“It is in America’s interest to have a system that applies to the rule of law,’ said Paul. 

– Lila Russell
Photo: Flickr

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Using Technology to Combat Drought in Kenya

How Kenya Uses Technology to Combat DroughtIn Kenya, only 27 weather stations are operational and they are spread over vast distances. This scarcity leaves many farmers without accurate weather forecasts, particularly rainfall, crucial for their agriculture. Farming in Kenya, a region prone to droughts, depends heavily on timing. The absence of reliable rainfall predictions forces farmers to risk planting seeds that may fail if expected rains do not materialize. This ongoing challenge is compounded by the region’s climate, which is not only prone to erratic rainfall and frequent droughts but is also expected to experience worsening conditions over the next decade.

The Impact of Drought in Kenya

Droughts in Kenya pose severe threats to the livelihoods of the poorest populations, who are predominantly smallholder farmers and pastoralists. These groups rely heavily on rainfall for irrigation and extended droughts often deplete alternative water sources like boreholes and rivers. The primary impact of drought is the destruction of agricultural assets. Without adequate water, crops fail prematurely, leaving farmers without food or income from harvests. Additionally, the loss of crops prevents future planting due to the loss of seeds. Livestock farmers face similar challenges, with water scarcity leading to the death of essential forage and, subsequently, their animals. Recent reports have highlighted extreme conditions, with visuals of even camels perishing from dehydration, symbolizing the dire situation in the region.  

Recurring and intensifying droughts in Kenya have left more than 4.35 million residents of arid and semi-arid regions facing severe food shortages and limited access to clean water, leading to widespread malnutrition. These droughts not only pose immediate threats but also perpetuate chronic poverty. A study from the Technical University of Berlin reveals that households impacted by drought often experience deteriorating living conditions and reduced educational spending up to 10 years later. Moreover, early exposure to malnutrition significantly impairs cognitive development in children, affecting their abilities into adolescence and adulthood.

The Bridge Between Bird Songs and Weather Stations

Information Technology and Indigenous Knowledge with Intelligence (ITIKI), is a groundbreaking drought forecasting tool. This system integrates conventional meteorological data, inputs from locally stationed wireless sensors and indigenous weather indicators, processing all this information through artificial intelligence to deliver highly accurate weather forecasts.

ITIKI stands out among forecasting tools because it uniquely incorporates local indigenous knowledge into its predictions. This allows for highly specific, micro-level forecasts that the Kenyan National Meteorological Services cannot provide. Indigenous knowledge includes local signs that correlate with weather patterns, such as specific bird calls or the behavior of dragonflies, which are traditionally recognized as indicators of imminent rainfall. Residents report these signs through communication channels and the ITIKI system processes this data with artificial intelligence. Professor Masinde, a user of ITIKI, recounts, “My sister and I would hear that bird, we’d have to run home because it would rain precisely three hours later. It’s so precise.”

Kenya’s youth often dismiss indigenous knowledge as outdated, viewing it as a primitive forecasting method. Yet, from a data analysis perspective, indigenous knowledge represents a long-standing correlation between natural phenomena and meteorological patterns, as recognized by local observations. Although these traditional indicators may be too general to serve as the sole method for predicting droughts, when integrated with modern forecasting technologies, they significantly enhance accuracy at the local level by contributing specific meteorological insights.

ITIKI Combatting Drought in Kenya

With a remarkable micro-level precision of 500 meters, ITIKI boasts a 98% accuracy rate for forecasts up to 18 months and 70% for those extending to four years. This precision enables smallholder farmers to receive specific rainfall predictions for their villages, enhancing their agricultural planning. Professor Muthoni Masinde explains the practical applications: farmers can save seeds and funds by not planting ahead of anticipated dry spells, investing in drought-resistant crops if only limited rainfall is expected or even relocating if long-term forecasts predict insufficient rainfall.

The 2019 USAID performance report on ITIKI highlighted its impact on agricultural practices, with 74% of users reporting improved crop yields due to the system’s accurate forecasts. Additionally, all interviewed users expressed their endorsement of ITIKI to other farmers. The adoption of drought-resilient crop varieties increased among ITIKI users, who, leveraging precise weather predictions, often planted before anticipated rainfall, enhancing crop survival rates.

ITIKI’s Future

The ITIKI project, currently operational in Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa, assists smallholder farmers in managing drought in Kenya. According to a USAID report, while ITIKI has been beneficial, farmers have shown reluctance to pay for subscriptions themselves. In response, Professor Masinde has pivoted to a business-to-business model, partnering with government institutions keen on enhancing self-sufficiency among these farmers. Furthermore, Professor Masinde plans to broaden ITIKI’s user base across Africa, refine forecast accuracy and incorporate predictions for other environmental threats like locust invasions. This project offers a promising avenue for enhancing drought resilience and addressing poverty in innovative ways.

Looking Ahead

ITIKI’s integration of traditional knowledge with modern technology offers precise weather forecasting, vital for smallholder farmers in managing drought in Kenya. By providing accurate, village-specific rainfall predictions, ITIKI helps farmers make informed decisions, improving crop yields and reducing losses. As the system expands across Africa and incorporates additional environmental threats, it promises to enhance agricultural resilience and combat poverty in the region.

– Siwon Kim

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

Photo: Flickr

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3 Nonprofits Addressing Food Insecurity in Singapore

3 Nonprofits Addressing Food Insecurity in SingaporeLocated off the southern tip of Malaysia, Singapore, one of Asia’s wealthiest nations, boasts a thriving economy and impressive infrastructure. Despite this, the perception that all of its 5 million citizens live above the poverty line is misleading. In reality, numerous Singaporeans struggle to meet basic needs, with many earning insufficient incomes to secure stable food supplies. Consequently, food insecurity remains a significant concern within the country. As of 2023, more than 10.4% of Singaporean households have experienced food insecurity. Elderly residents, single-parent households and others with limited financial resources are particularly vulnerable to food insecurity.

3 Nonprofits Fighting Food Insecurity

With one in 10 households facing food insecurity, several nonprofits are stepping up to address this pressing issue.

  1. Willing Hearts. Founded in 2003, Willing Hearts began by distributing food to homeless individuals in Singapore. Now, the organization mobilizes volunteers who dedicate four hours per session to prepare meals, including tasks like cutting vegetables, washing dishes and packaging food boxes for distribution daily. In addition to kitchen work, Willing Hearts recruits volunteer drivers to deliver these meals across various neighborhoods. This nonprofit is committed to reducing food insecurity, making it easier for anyone interested to sign up and contribute to their cause.
  2. Food from the Heart. Founded in 2003, the nonprofit Food from the Heart focuses on food distribution in Singapore. In 2021, it positively impacted 59,500 individuals by redistributing surplus bread from restaurants and food vendors. This initiative, known as “bread runs,” has provided more than 14,000 people in need with fresh bread. Additionally, the organization supports children from low-income families by distributing “goodie bags” containing food items. These bags have reached children in more than 40 schools, with more than 16,000 bags distributed. Food from the Heart’s efforts significantly alleviate food insecurity among both adults and children in Singapore.
  3. The Food Bank Singapore. Founded in 2012, The Food Bank Singapore aims to eradicate food insecurity across the nation. This nonprofit gathers surplus food from restaurants, grocery stores, farms and various other sources, distributing these resources to more than 300 soup kitchens and other organizations focused on combating food insecurity. By repurposing surplus food, the organization not only addresses hunger but also reduces food waste significantly. The Food Bank Singapore welcomes food donations and offers volunteer opportunities for individuals to help sort and organize food items in their warehouse.

Looking Ahead

Tackling food insecurity in Singapore continues to be a pressing issue despite the country’s overall affluence. Organizations like Willing Hearts, Food from the Heart and The Food Bank Singapore are vital in mitigating this problem by providing meals and redistributing surplus food to those in need. Their efforts support vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and single-parent families, underscoring the importance of community-driven initiatives to ensure everyone has access to sufficient and nutritious food.

– Poppy Duggal

Poppy is based in Singapore, and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Cooperatives in India

Women's Cooperatives in IndiaIndia’s female population constitutes 48.4% of the total population. As of 2023, only 28.7% of the female population was in the labor force and according to the International Labor Organization (ILO), 81.8% of working women in India are employed in the informal sector. Workers in the informal sector do not enjoy job security or benefits. Legal frameworks do not protect them and they do not possess worker rights compared to those employed in the formal sector.

Women’s cooperatives in India aim to mend this employment disparity by providing legal employment and financial independence to impoverished women working in the informal sector. This thereby empowers them to sustain themselves by participating in social and economic activities. Two significant women’s cooperatives in India are the Self-Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) Cooperative Federation and the Indian Cooperative Network for Women (ICNW).

SEWA

India’s first women’s cooperative, SEWA, was founded in Gujarat by Ela Bhatt in 1972. SEWA brings together women employed in the informal sector and strives to improve their economic conditions, “drive social change,” and fight for female workers’ rights. SEWA’s vision and mission is to empower poor women by ensuring that they achieve “full employment and self-reliance at the collective and the member level.”

As of 2024, SEWA consists of 300,000 women workers, 112 women’s cooperatives and operations running more than six sectors. The organization provides “fair employment and decent work” for women, catering to their needs as female workers. Through its cooperatives, SEWA provides financial, health care, insurance, communication, production and housing services, among others, to benefit women in the informal sector. Overall, SEWA aims to provide economic and social security to poor women through income, employment, access to credit, improved housing, education and access to health care.

ICNW

Initiated by Jaya Arunachalam in 1981, the ICNW is the first South-Indian women’s cooperative “for, by and of poor women.” It provides opportunities for poor women to learn new skills, secure employment and obtain easy access to credit. The cooperative’s vision, mission and objective are to alleviate female poverty, give marginalized women a voice and support women by empowering them to be financially self-reliant.

The ICNW has lent loans amounting to Rs.3,456 million (approximately $41 million) to more than 500,000 women from thousands of slums and villages in three South Indian states: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. The group has 14 cooperative branches spread across South India, ensuring that women working in the informal sector become financially independent, receive credit at low interest rates, learn to fight for their rights as female workers and lead the way to mobilize other women to achieve socioeconomic stability.

Final Remark

As Dr. Patel and Dr. Sethi from the National Institute for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog state, encouraging “cooperative models that integrate capacity building, education, skill, training, engagement of youth and women” can help achieve the “dual targets of [India] becoming a $5 trillion economy while fulfilling commitments of U.N.-SDGs targets.”

Many such women’s cooperatives in India have taken the initiative to lift vulnerable women out of poverty by making them socially and economically self-reliant. SEWA and ICNW are two examples of organizations working toward improving the quality of life of women in India’s informal sector.

– Adya Umesh

Adya is based in Bangalore, Karnataka, India and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Colombia’s Digital Divide: Internet Access Opens up Opportunities

Colombia’s Digital DivideColombia’s digital divide represents a significant barrier to economic development, especially in rural areas. While urban regions enjoy robust internet infrastructure, rural Colombia often remains disconnected. Only 16.2% of people in rural regions have internet access, compared to 63% in urban regions. This hinders access to information, education and economic opportunities, perpetuating cycles of poverty. Bridging this divide through targeted initiatives can unlock transformative potential, fostering digital inclusion that lifts communities out of poverty.

The Digital Divide in Colombia

Colombia faces significant disparities in internet access between urban and rural areas. Urban centers typically have better internet infrastructure and higher rates of connectivity. In contrast, rural communities often lack access to reliable internet services. This digital inequality exacerbates existing socioeconomic inequalities. The lack of access limits opportunities for rural residents to participate in the digital economy and access essential services such as education, health care and financial resources.

Limited internet access directly impacts economic opportunities. Without reliable connectivity, rural residents face barriers to accessing online job opportunities. They are unable to market their products and services and engaging in e-commerce. This hampers entrepreneurship and economic growth in rural areas, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality.

Internet Access and Economic Opportunities

Internet access opens up new avenues for rural entrepreneurs to sell their products and reach a broader market. Online platforms and marketplaces enable farmers, artisans and small businesses to showcase their goods. Accessing the internet allows sellers to connect with customers beyond their local communities. By expanding market access, e-commerce empowers rural entrepreneurs to increase sales and generate higher incomes, thereby contributing to poverty alleviation.

Government Initiatives and Digital Inclusion

The Colombian government has recognized the importance of bridging the digital divide and promoting digital inclusion as a means of fostering economic development and reducing poverty. One such initiative is the Computadores para Educar (CPE) program, which included setting up free public WiFi hotspots at community centers. Previously, the Vive Digital program provided access to computers, photocopiers, scanners, telephones, digital training and affordable internet through 7,000 digital kiosks.

In addition to infrastructure development, the Colombian government has implemented digital literacy programs to enhance digital skills and knowledge among rural residents. For instance, in 2009, the Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (MinTIC) funded the Citizen Digital Certification program. These programs provide training in basic computer skills, internet usage and online safety, empowering individuals to navigate the digital world effectively. By equipping rural residents with the necessary digital skills, these initiatives enable them to fully participate in the digital economy and access economic opportunities online.

Final Remark

Internet access is a powerful tool for unlocking economic opportunities and reducing poverty in rural Colombia. By bridging Colombia’s digital divide and promoting digital inclusion, rural communities can tap into the vast potential of the digital economy, including e-commerce, remote work and freelancing. Government initiatives such as the CPE program and digital literacy programs play a crucial role in expanding internet access and empowering rural residents to harness the benefits of the digital age. By leveraging technology to overcome geographical barriers and foster economic empowerment, Colombia can build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Single Elderly Women in Japan Struggle with Poverty

Single Elderly Women in Japan Struggle with PovertyA recent survey conducted by Tokyo Metropolitan University Professor Aya Abe reveals that 44.1% of single women aged 65 and older in Japan are living in poverty. This rate is notably higher than their male counterparts and is nearly equivalent to the 44.5% poverty rate among working-age single-parent households.

Japan faces growing concerns about its aging population, particularly single elderly women who are at a higher risk of poverty. Current data suggests a stark contrast in poverty risks between genders and marital statuses, with elderly women more likely to struggle financially. Projections indicate that poverty rates for elderly women could increase from 22% to 25% and for divorced or unmarried women, the rate could spike to 50%. In contrast, only about 10% of elderly men are expected to fall into poverty. Widowhood offers limited financial relief, often restricted to bereaved family pensions.

Economic Inequality and Labor Market Challenges

The 2022 Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare report in Japan reveals significant gender and age disparities in “one-person households.” Men constitute 35.9% of these households, with the largest age group being 70 to 74 years old, accounting for 28.7% of single male households. In contrast, women make up 64.1% of one-person households, with the largest demographic being those aged 85 and over, representing 24.1% of single female households.

Despite a doubling of income over the past two decades, Japanese women still earn significantly less than their male counterparts. As of Feb. 2023, the Statistics Bureau of Japan reported that the average monthly income for women was ¥83,896 ($630), compared to ¥345,645 for men. This disparity is exacerbated by the fact that 70% of female workers hold part-time or nonpermanent positions, which typically offer lower pay and limited opportunities for advancement. Consequently, Japan’s ranking suffered in the World Economic Forum’s 2022 Global Gender Gap report, ranking 116th out of 146 countries, primarily due to wage inequality and a scarcity of women in senior management roles.

Societal Norms and Systemic Disadvantages

“Social norms that assume women are being supported by men have led to a system that doesn’t consider women living alone—and persist even today,” said Abe, “Attention on ‘women’s poverty’ often focuses on young women and single mothers. Policies also revolve around child support and are not essentially supporting women.” This disparity stems from the post-war pension system, which was based on the assumption that women would leave the workforce to raise children while men, employed full-time, would secure generous benefits. Consequently, the system inadequately supports single, divorced or never-married women in their later years.

Policy Recommendations and Future Directions

In Japan, the public pension system covers individuals from age 20 to 59, with basic pension benefits starting at age 65, contingent on a minimum of 10 years of contributions. Full benefits are available after 40 years of contributions. Enhancing the income security function of this system can potentially mitigate the risk of elderly poverty.

A RIETI report recommended three frameworks for improving Japan’s pension system. Firstly, it suggested expanding employee health insurance to cover nonpermanent, part-time workers, thereby ensuring more comprehensive protection and reducing the risk of exclusion from the pension safety net. Secondly, raising the pensionable age could increase benefits for those currently receiving low amounts, more effectively addressing elderly poverty. Finally, implementing partial reforms to the existing system could significantly alleviate poverty without the need for a complete overhaul.

The Japanese government is actively promoting “lifelong work” to alleviate the country’s significant labor shortage and to encourage elderly citizens to contribute more toward their medical and nursing care expenses. To support this initiative, the Fiscal System Council is evaluating a proposal to raise the pensionable age to 68. Although the official retirement age in Japan is 65, the country has the world’s second-highest rate of senior employment, with many older adults working informal part-time jobs to supplement their pensions.

Looking Ahead

Japan’s aging population, especially single elderly women, faces severe economic challenges. Despite efforts to improve income security, significant disparities remain in wages and employment opportunities. With proposed reforms like raising the pensionable age and expanding insurance coverage, Japan aims to address these ongoing issues and enhance financial stability for its elderly citizens, striving to reduce poverty and improve their quality of life.

– Cindy Hong

Cindy is based in Milpitas, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash