Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Renewable Energy in Romania: A New Way To Fight Poverty

Renewable Energy in RomaniaRomania is a semi-presidential republic located at the crossroads of Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, with a population of more than 19 million citizens. Like many other developing countries, much of its population suffers from energy poverty, defined as a lack of access to modern energy services in homes that negatively impacts one’s physical health, mental well-being and living standards. Nevertheless, Romania has been steadily progressing toward the European Union’s (EU) goal of full electrification with the breakthrough of new renewable energy projects.

The Extent of Energy Poverty in Romania

Almost a third of the Romanian population (28%) is affected by energy poverty, experiencing difficulties paying their bills on time and being unable to heat their homes properly. Moreover, about 7% of all households have no access to affordable energy sources at all. This issue partially stems from economic struggles, including regional disparities, weak institutions and skilled labor shortages, resulting in severe inequality throughout the country.

According to the World Bank, Romania’s Gini index of equivalized disposable income reached 34.3 in 2020, the fourth highest in the EU. The bottom 40% of society is largely disconnected and lives in impoverished, rural areas, which limits their access to productive jobs. However, there is hope for the future as Romania’s poverty rate declined significantly from 27.8% in 2015 to 10.7% in 2020, with economic growth accelerating due to rising disposable incomes, increased private consumption and new EU-financed investments.

Clean Energy: Out With the Old, in With the New

Despite growing concerns, Romania’s solar and wind energy output has remained flat since 2014 due to a lack of funding. However, in March 2024, the European Commission approved funding for €3 billion (approximately $3.24 billion) under the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework to support the construction of new solar photovoltaic facilities and onshore wind farms.

The fund will be split between installing three gigawatts of solar energy and two gigawatts of wind energy. One gigawatt of solar or wind energy can power approximately 750,000 homes per year, representing a significant step forward to supporting clean energy sectors and reducing fossil fuel dependencies.

These new solar and wind farms will also promote equality, as they will be built in remote rural areas with the highest rates of energy poverty. They will allow for decentralized power generation that will help stabilize and prevent future disruptions or blackouts. Opening up new solar and wind plants will also allow for new job opportunities, not only providing long-term benefits for energy usage but also regarding education and training.

Furthermore, compared to traditional fossil-fueled power plants, solar and wind farms require less continuous maintenance and simultaneously benefit the environment, so through this plan, more homes will have access to reliable, clean and affordable power without electricity and restore their heating systems. An expert from the Romanian Energy Poverty Observatory stated, “Energy is a basic need. The poorest consumers prefer to put less food on the table but not stay in the dark or cold.”

Thus, not only will this plan raise the standard of living within the communities, but Romania as a whole will experience both economic and societal benefits with an increase in productivity and the overall standard of living within all communities.

Big Plans for the Future

Looking ahead, the Social Climate Fund has initiated discussions about a €6 billion (about $6.48 billion) fund for Romania to continue supporting efforts to reduce its energy poverty rate to the national level, set to occur from 2026 to 2032. The fund has a diverse range of purposes, which include transitioning the rural community’s inefficient housing structure from thin panel-type building blocks and adopting new heating appliances rather than continuing to rely on a mix of wood, gas and coal.

Moreover, it will help vulnerable groups pay energy bills and access transportation services. This action, alongside other subsidized government programs, will allow Romania to have the needed support in combating increasing consumer costs and reaching its aim of raising the share of renewable energy consumption to 30.7% by 2030.

– Kewe Chen

Kewe is based in Memphis, TN, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Tuvalu: Poverty Caused by Natural Disasters

Poverty caused by natural disastersTuvalu, one of the world’s smallest countries, is an island nation vulnerable to natural disasters due to its topography. These disasters not only cause immediate loss of life and displacement but also result in long-term agricultural challenges. Saltwater intrusion renders the land uncultivable, leading to a loss of income and increased dependence on imported food, further entrenching the population in poverty. Cyclones increase the risk of vector and waterborne diseases, which can incapacitate the surviving population and hinder their ability to earn a living. In response, Tuvalu has implemented measures to protect its infrastructure, thereby shortening the restoration process and helping to shield the nation from poverty caused by natural disasters.

Infrastructure and Development Initiatives

The National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2021-2030 and the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (TCAP) have reclaimed land in the capital city of Funafuti, which has helped keep the island from drowning. Engineers are actively monitoring the site and progressing work in other areas, thus improving working conditions, increasing safety and certainty and raising living standards. The reclamation project also includes a drainage system protecting the city from heavy rains. Another enhancement is the harbor facility that ensures continuous access to the Funafuti Lagoon. Additionally, this initiative has created employment opportunities for citizens that are receiving targeted training to enhance their skills and contribute to the domestic economy.

Strengthening Island Resilience

Further protective measures such as constructing Berm Top Barriers shield the outer islands from high waves and saltwater penetration, safeguarding vital agricultural resources and freshwater supplies. This effort safeguards the harvests of taro, breadfruit, pawpaw and bananas in Nanumea and Nanumaga, thereby preventing food scarcity and hunger. It also prevents groundwater contamination, preserving water quality for home use. The 1,330-meter-long barrier will not only block 10-meter-high waves but also address the displacement of more than 300 people from the last cyclone in 2015.

Revitalization and Environmental Restoration

The TCAP plans to revegetate the land with coconut plants and Pandanus tree seedlings, sourced from local suppliers to stimulate economic activity. Beyond these efforts, TCAP collaborates with the NGO Fuligafou to conserve coral reefs and restore fish populations. Coral destruction has led to the migration of fish, impacting the income and protein sources of local communities reliant on fishing. The restoration process incorporates both modern and indigenous coral restoration techniques. In the long term, these efforts aim to revitalize the local fishing industry and provide new opportunities to alleviate poverty.

Looking Ahead

As Tuvalu fortifies its defenses against the harsh realities of the changing climate, its innovative infrastructure projects provide both immediate relief and long-term sustainability. The initiatives in place, from coastal barriers to environmental restoration, promise to enhance resilience and reduce the potential for poverty caused by natural disasters. With ongoing international support and local commitment, Tuvalu is paving the way toward a more secure and prosperous future for its residents.

– Hafsa Dijoo

Hafsa is based in Sharjah, UAE and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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KSRelief-WHO Funding Agreement for Sudan, Syria and Yemen

KSRelief-WHO Funding Agreement for Sudan, Syria and Yemen Ongoing conflicts in Sudan, Syria and Yemen have devastated public health institutions and affected millions. In Sudan, more than two-thirds of main hospitals are out of service, leaving 11 million people in need of urgent health care since April 2023. Syria faces a similar crisis, with more than 12.2 million people needing immediate medical attention due to inadequate health facility services. In Yemen, about 46% of health facilities are nonfunctional or partially operational, affecting 21.6 million people, at least two-thirds of the population. In response, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSRelief) is actively providing crucial support and resources to address these health care challenges.

International Aid and Collaboration

On May 25, 2024, KSRelief signed an agreement with the World Health Organization (WHO) to fund WHO’s critical health response operations in Sudan, Syria and Yemen to the amount of $19.4 million. Before signing the funding agreement, both organizations worked extensively to alleviate the pain the people in Sudan, Syria and Yemen endured.

At Jordan’s Zaatari camp for Syrian refugees, KSRelief has been operating medical clinics where doctors have provided health care assistance, including treatment for sinus and middle ear infections, to 2,349 Syrian patients. Similarly, WHO has been reinforcing disease surveillance in Sudan and Yemen to help countries such as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia respond effectively to the health crises in these countries. KSRelief’s funding support to WHO’s critical health operations in Sudan, Syria and Yemen facilitates medical care on the ground.

Funding Dialysis Treatments in Sudan

KSRelief’s efforts includes providing $5 million to supply 100 dialysis machines and strengthen dialysis centers in Sudan. Currently, 77 renal dialysis centers in Sudan are only partially functioning and cannot provide life-saving dialysis treatment for the Sudanese people. According to the International Society of Nephrology, there are approximately 8,000 Sudanese people and more who have been relying on dialysis to stay alive since the conflict started. 

Healing Syria After the Earthquakes

On Feb. 6, 2023, a devastating earthquake in Syria destroyed many buildings, including essential hospitals and health clinics, affecting 8.8 million Syrians and resulting in the deaths of 5,954 Syrians. KSRelief supported WHO with a $4.75 million contribution to provide necessary medications and supplies to around 350,000 Syrians in need urgent health care. The funds allocated to Syria will also help WHO restore diagnostic capacity and ambulance services, assisting an estimated 4.1 million Syrians.

Countering Disease Outbreaks in Yemen

KSRelief is providing $9.5 million to support WHO’s operations in Yemen, focusing on strengthening responses to disease outbreaks like cholera and measles. Yemen currently faces over 40,000 suspected cholera cases and more than 34,000 cases of measles and rubella as of August 31, 2023. This funding also aims to help WHO enhance health care facilities in Yemen by improving their sanitation and hygiene services, thereby boosting their capacity to tackle disease outbreaks. These ongoing efforts are expected to benefit approximately 12.9 million Yemenis in urgent need of care due to the public health crisis.

Multilateral Collaboration to Address Critical Health Issues

KSRelief’s critical financial support to WHO’s health operations aims to ensure the safety of Sudanese, Syrian and Yemeni people who dream of a stable and secure future. The ongoing efforts highlight the impact multilateral collaboration between countries and organizations could have in addressing global health issues.

– Abdullah Dowaihy

Abdullah is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Strengthening Health Care Centers in Saint Lucia

Strengthening Health Care Centers in Saint LuciaLocated in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is a small island nation with a population of just under 200,000. Like many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), it faces challenges such as limited technology and overwhelmed health care services, making its population vulnerable to poor health. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension and diabetes reportedly account for approximately 82% of the country’s deaths.

Causes of Vulnerability

SIDS are particularly vulnerable to NCDs. According to a 2023 World Health Organization report, of 15 countries experiencing a 30% higher mortality rate from NCDs, eight are SIDS. This heightened vulnerability stems from several factors, including governance issues, educational gaps and economic inequality. Their isolated locations restrict trade and access to resources, while small populations limit their ability to develop extensive health care facilities and secure sufficient funding. The high cost of medical technology further strains their GDPs.

SIDS faces frequent natural disasters like hurricanes and cyclones, which annually cost 1% to 8% of their GDP, leading to infrastructure damage that requires ongoing reinvestment and rebuilding of national services. Additionally, these nations often suffer from brain drain, as many skilled professionals emigrate in search of better opportunities, further depleting the health care workforce.

Strengthening Health Care Centers in Saint Lucia

With funding from the World Bank, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs in Saint Lucia has implemented a Performance-Based Financing mechanism for health care centers. This scheme distributes funding to wellness services across the island, aiming to improve access to primary-level health care for patients and reward centers for their treatment provision. By allocating funds based on data-driven performance metrics, the ministry makes strategic investments to maximize effectiveness.

Long-term investment in health care services enhances their efficiency and resilience in recovering from unprecedented events and shocks. Recent years have highlighted the importance of such resilience, with many countries struggling to handle crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This resilience is especially critical for SIDS, given their increased vulnerability to natural disasters like hurricanes. These meteorological events strain the economy and necessitate frequent strengthening of infrastructure.

A recent World Bank report found that individuals suffering from non-communicable diseases spend about 36% of their income on health care annually, a figure that rises to nearly 50% among those experiencing higher levels of poverty. Improved health services allow individuals to consult local providers instead of resorting to more expensive hospital care. Strengthening health care centers in Saint Lucia boosts economic conditions on both national and individual levels.

Looking Ahead

Saint Lucia, like many SIDS, faces significant challenges in managing NCDs due to its limited health care resources and economic constraints. The government, with World Bank support, has introduced a Performance-Based Financing mechanism to improve primary health care access and efficiency. Strengthening these services can potentially reduce health care costs for individuals and enhance the island’s overall economic resilience. This approach aims to mitigate the impact of natural disasters and health crises on the nation’s vulnerable population.

– Aimee Masters

Aimee is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Role of AI in Reducing Poverty

Role of AI in Reducing PovertyThe fight against global poverty is breaking new ground with the help of artificial intelligence. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an amoral tool that is equally capable of both harm and help. However, there are many noteworthy ways in which it contributes to global poverty reduction. The emerging tool has already helped improve access to health care and education. Additionally, it has assisted in disaster response mitigation, particularly in regions where access is otherwise limited. For example, let’s consider the role of AI in reducing poverty in Brazil, Kenya and Bangladesh.

Health Care in Brazil

AI-based diagnostic systems can provide timely and remote access to health care> It can reduce the burden of preventable disease and improve overall health outcomes. These systems can bridge the gap between people and essential resources in remote or marginalized places.

In Brazil, AI is currently being used to improve health care access. One example is ViBe Saúde, a Brazilian telemedicine startup that uses AI algorithms to facilitate consultations between medical professionals and patients. The initiative has proven especially beneficial in rural regions where access to health care services is limited.

Education in Kenya

AI-powered educational systems can adapt to offer personalized learning experiences, which is particularly helpful in regions with limited educational resources. In Kenya, Bridge International Academies, a company that provides for-profit education, is using AI-powered digital learning platforms to help disadvantaged populations break the cycle of poverty.

Remarkably, since 2015, Bridge students who have sat for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam have consistently scored above the national average. Furthermore, its alumni are now in top universities in Kenya and the United States (U.S.).

Disaster Response in Bangladesh

Climate AI’s predictive analysis and relief coordination capacities can help mitigate the impact in disaster-prone regions and reduce their socioeconomic impact. Bangladesh, for instance, is highly susceptible to cyclones, floods and landslides, which can devastatingly impact vulnerable populations. AI-powered chatbots provide real-time information and enable timely evacuation and response efforts, further aiding in disaster management.

The Bangladesh government has used AI to enhance preparedness and response efforts. For example, the Bangladesh Meteorological Department uses AI algorithms for disaster risk management (DRM) to analyze weather data and issue early flood and cyclone warnings. “DRM is constantly upgraded through machine learning and artificial intelligence,” writes Abdullah Shibli, a reporter at The Daily Star.

Unemployment (And Re-Employment) in Bangladesh

While celebrating the accomplishments of the role of AI in reducing global poverty, it is also crucial to acknowledge its potential to exacerbate it. An epitomic example of this is AI’s capacity to automate the manufacturing sector. In Bangladesh, garment manufacturing is a significant source of employment and economic growth. As with many cases of hyper-industrialization, automation would cause underemployment in Bangladesh.

However, rather than exclusively displacing workers, AI also has the capacity to create more job opportunities. According to the World Economic Forum, by 2025, “approximately 85 million employees are anticipated to lose their jobs, while 97 million new roles may emerge.” This example illustrates the nuanced truth underlying robotics: AI’s capacity to promote harm or help is dependent on how we choose to use it. There is no reason to fear AI, as the future of its potential is a matter of our responsibility.

– Sheridan Smith

Sheridan is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Acumen: Alleviating Poverty in Developing Nations

AcumenAcumen is a nonprofit global venture fund that uses entrepreneurial approaches to solve poverty. Founded in 2001 by Jacqueline Novogratz, Acumen invests in early-stage companies that provide critical goods and services to low-income communities in various sectors, including health care, education, energy, agriculture and housing.

Green Growth

Acumen reimagines India’s green job revolution. As workers in the waste supply chain struggle to make ends meet due to health and safety issues, Acumen drives innovation in waste collection through coordination, recuperation and reusing. The nonprofit aims to improve salaries and working conditions while moving forward.

By playing upon available technology, Acumen protects waste workers in India by creating access to credit and improving traceability through its investing for impact approach. Recycling waste to create greener products increases worker salaries while improving health and safety in the value chain.

Education Facility in East Africa

Acumen’s innovative approach to making a difference in the education sector is impactful. It funds and supports early-stage social enterprises that provide affordable, high-quality education to underserved communities. Since 2012, it has supported 12 companies, impacting 17 million lives.

By investing in impact, Acumen backs ventures that leverage technology to enhance learning, including companies that develop digital learning platforms and educational software that can reach students in remote areas. By focusing on teacher training and capacity building, the organization improves the skills and knowledge of educators as these initiatives help enhance the overall quality of education.

Agriculture

By supporting companies that help farmers in developing countries access markets more efficiently, Acumen ensures that farmers can sell their produce at fair prices. This includes enterprises that connect farmers directly to buyers, reducing the reliance on intermediaries. The organization supports ventures that develop and distribute agricultural technologies such as improved seeds, irrigation systems and farming equipment, which increases crop yields and farming efficiency.

Through its support of initiatives offering training and capacity building for farmers, including education on farming practices, sustainable agriculture techniques and business skills, Acumen helps farmers sell products and grow in the market. By reducing post-harvest losses and increasing profits, Acumen ensures farmers get their products to market in good condition through its investing for impact approach. Acumen has supported 52 agriculture companies, impacting more than 43 million lives.

Energy

Acumen also invests in renewable energy solutions that distribute technologies such as solar power systems, biogas plants and wind energy solutions, which help to bring clean energy to communities that lack access to reliable power. The charity works with enterprises that provide training and capacity building in renewable energy technologies, help create local jobs, build technical skills and ensure the sustainability of energy projects.

Since 2007, Acumen has deployed more than $89 million for clean energy and supported more than 40 off-grid energy companies, ultimately impacting more than 306 million people globally. This demonstrates Acumen’s commitment to ending energy poverty, especially in developing countries.

Conclusion

Acumen’s innovative approach to investing for impact has demonstrated significant success in alleviating poverty in developing countries. Its strategic funding and support of social enterprises allow it to empower disadvantaged communities and help catalyze sustainable development effectively. Its commitment to patient capital, rigorous impact measurement and leadership development underscores a holistic strategy that goes beyond mere financial investment to create lasting social change.

– Rika Mokal

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

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Austria

HIV/AIDS in AustriaIn 1983, the spread of HIV/AIDS made Austria sound its alarm bells. Though the country only saw six cases that year, that number jumped to 381 by 1985. Since then, there have been huge strides in both treatment and acceptance that give HIV/AIDS victims a chance at a normal life.

Every Statistic Represents a Life

The alpine nation of Austria only makes up a small percentage of overall HIV/AIDS infections. According to the Austrian HIV Cohort Study, since the beginning of data collection in 1985, there have approximately been a total of 11,154 HIV diagnoses; 3,510 resulting in AIDS. Overall 2,859 people have succumbed to the disease.

The same study furthermore shows that throughout the years new infections have consistently stayed under 500, hitting their peak in 2008 with 415. In 2023 newly reported cases totaled 114, and currently, Austria ranks 120th worldwide in overall HIV rates in adults.

Like in most other countries, medical treatments and prevention are paramount in the battle against the HIV/AIDS epidemic. In Austria, 98.2% of patients are currently receiving antiretroviral regimens, and in 2022, 232 people were taking non-occupational antiretroviral drugs to impede the spread of the illness. This was an increase from 144 in 2016. Medications such as PrEP have also seen an uptick, from five prescriptions in 2016, when it first became available, to 1,270 in March of 2023, according to the Austrian HIV Cohort Study. Therapeutic advances like the previously mentioned means that contracting HIV/AIDS in Austria, and globally, is no longer a death sentence.

Additionally, expecting mothers get screened for HIV/AIDS as part of the Mother-Child booklet to qualify for childcare allowance. This allows for women to receive financial assistance and should the test be positive, gives providers a chance to provide care for both mom and baby.

Nobody Should Be Left Behind

The government assists citizens who are unable to work due to illnesses or other hardships. This comes in the form of the “Sozialhilfe” (social help) or “Mindestsicherung” (minimum security) to cover basic living costs. However, this keeps people just below the poverty line.

Depending on how the virus progresses, people with HIV/AIDS in Austria can continue to work, and it is illegal for any employer to discriminate against anyone with a positive status or ask any employee if they have HIV/AIDS. These laws are part of the de-stigmatization of the disease, and not ostracizing victims as was the norm during the beginning of the epidemic. Austria never saw the devastating numbers that other countries did, but it soon became a large part of the effort to advocate for more tolerance for people who are afflicted by the virus.

The Life Ball

In 1993, 10 years after the first diagnosis of HIV/AIDS in Austria, Gery Keszler and Torgorm Petrosian founded the organization called AIDS LIFE. In that same year, it held the first Life Ball in Vienna’s city hall. Petrosian himself was affected by the disease and the goal was to raise funds for national efforts to support others suffering from HIV/AIDS. Just one year later, the event already rose to international recognition and now collected donations for international relief.

Always held under a different theme, the ball becomes a magnet for fashion designers like the late Vivienne Westwood. AIDS LIFE then began to expand and in 2001 worked with other international projects, notably The Elton John Aids Foundation. The Life Ball then began to attract more and more celebrities and politicians, who joined the fight against the illness.

Although, wider publicity helped ease the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS and for those who had contracted the virus, the ball took a pause in 2016 to return in 2017 with a refocused effort not on the spectacle but on “Fighting AIDS & Celebrating Life!” AIDS LIFE also rebranded itself to LIFE+ and launched the Know Your Status campaign to normalize HIV testing.

The fundraiser occurred the last time in 2019 and throughout its 26 years of existence, LIFE+ collected more than $34 million in donations.

For those who are also experiencing homelessness and/or drug addiction there is the Lighthouse organization in Vienna. Since 2000 the nonprofit has run a supported housing project, the only one in the country for people with HIV/AIDS. Its main mission is to highlight the humanity of people cast aside and to help their clients regain their lives.

Looking Ahead

Anybody can make a difference. No matter the cause, no matter how big the challenge, all it takes is one person with an idea. In the case of the Life Ball, it was two people, but Keszler’s and Petrosian’s story shows that small efforts can snowball into positive systemic changes and advances that might not have seemed possible.

– Melissa Harper-France

Melissa is based in Saint Paul, MN, USA and focuses on World News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Hunger and Anxiety Amid Uncertainty: Food Insecurity in Haiti

Food Insecurity in HaitiOn May 28, 2024, after the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry and the interim rule of Michel Patrick Boisvert, Gary Conille, a United Nations (U.N.) Development Specialist and former Regional Coordinator of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has been named Haiti’s Prime Minister. This transition in leadership comes at a critical time for Haiti, which has long grappled with political instability and gang violence. Several international actors hope that the new leadership will be able to bring structure and legitimacy to the national government amid the violence within the nation while addressing extreme violence and its impact on food insecurity in Haiti.

General State of Food Insecurity in Haiti

According to the World Food Programme’s (WFP) report, more than four million Haitians are affected by food insecurity, with nearly 1.5 million requiring urgent aid to survive. The cost of food in Haiti has been rising at an unsustainable rate, with average prices being 30-70% higher than in other Caribbean countries. This increase is due to a steady decline in agricultural production caused by years of land degradation and severe deforestation, which has led to an increased demand for imports.

Within the capital city of Port-au-Prince and its surrounding metropolitan area, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) through the WFP has played a crucial role by providing necessary food assistance for those who have been internally displaced due to gang violence. Currently, there are more than 80 displacement camps within the area and the WFP has directly given aid to nearly 100,000 persons in need.

Environmental Challenges

Haiti is predominantly tropical and mountainous, with 65% of its land considered suitable for agriculture. However, due to extreme deforestation for farming and fuel purposes, the country’s arable land has lost necessary nutrients and root patterns, which allow for healthy soil and seed stability. Additionally, being located in the hurricane belt, the country experiences severe storms and frequent major flooding, worsening the environmental challenges.

The extreme environmental degradation of traditional farmland has led Haiti to increase importation. The country imports more than 700,000 tonnes of rice and wheat for consumption, as agricultural production has been halted or delayed due to current violence. A way to increase food production and assist in replenishing arable land is to develop the average one-quarter-hectare farms to model bush and tree-based permaculture.

Permaculture can be defined as the development of agriculture in an environment that promotes biodiversity and the incorporation of crops into the general ecosystem; permaculture has been shown to improve environmental stability by protecting necessary topsoil erosion and increasing nutrients within soil compositions.

The practice of permaculture has seen success in the Caribbean, with farms in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Cuba. These examples show an increase in equitable treatment of laborers and the distribution of resources, which contrasts with the current Haitian model of agriculture, where only 60.9% of farmers have access to mechanized assistance and irrigation.

Political Challenges

On March 4, 2024, Haiti declared a state of emergency after more than 3,000 prisoners escaped from its National Penitentiary, located within Port-au-Prince. By April, the violence being perpetrated by the sum 200 gangs operating within Port-au-Prince had severely limited aid distribution as gangs took control of the only airport as well as the country’s largest port.

After President Jovenel Moise’s assassination in 2021 and the subsequent loss of parliamentary legitimacy, the Haitian government has become increasingly outdated and powerless. In this time of turmoil, Henry governed from abroad through decrees, facing criticism from both Haitian citizens and the international community about his legitimacy.

Sanctions and travel restrictions imposed by the international community severely damaged the country’s growing tertiary market economy. Similarly, the general violence has done nothing but exacerbate food insecurity in Haiti, with only 5% of the population receiving humanitarian aid.

Final Remark on Food Insecurity in Haiti

While the issue of food insecurity in Haiti has several facets, the current state of political instability means that no permanent solutions are viable, as the development and implementation of proper environmental change are time-consuming and arduous. However, in March 2024, the U.N. expressed the need for political stabilization to be developed for and by the Haitian people, with limited international interference.

– Jamie Sackett

Jamie is based in Hutto, TX, USA and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Mental Health in Andorra: A Country Focused on Improvement

Mental Health in AndorraWhen people think of European countries, they most likely don’t think about health issues, considering that these countries are frequently world leaders in terms of health. However, countries always have their issues and Andorra is no different. Thankfully, Andorra has demonstrated commitment to resolving its issues with mental health.

The Lack of Data

Despite being nestled between France and Spain, Andorra has a surprising lack of data on its mental health services. As of 2020, there was no data on the total amount spent on mental health per person, the suicide mortality rate or the community-provided mental health services that are available.

Even though nearly one-fifteenth of Andorra’s population has a mental disorder and a quarter of the country’s research focuses on mental health, data on the subject is scarce. This lack of information is concerning, given the vital importance of mental health.

As of 2019, a study found that for more than 20 years, consistently, 14% of the population or around 14,000 people, reported having a mental disorder in Andorra. During COVID-19, Andorra saw an increase in anxiety and depression symptoms. Of note, the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2020 profile on Andorra found that only one program is available to the public and this program could not be determined as either effective or ineffective.

Moving Forward With Hope

Despite the lack of available data, there is good news in terms of treatment options. The Andorran government covers the cost of various mental health treatments and care. It is committed to strengthening its early child developmental programs. Additionally, it has shown its support in deepening mental health aid available to the public.

The main Andorran hospital, Our Lady of Meritxell Hospital, provides professional help, including options for medication, psychiatrists and therapy. Similarly, a private psychological center, Andorra Psychological Center, offers workshops and various therapies run by licensed professionals.

Many nonprofit organizations are also helping to combat mental health challenges in Andorra. These include Caritas Andorra and the Andorran Red Cross, which both offer mental health aid through their social services. Specifically, they provide support groups and various talk therapy options. However, according to a 2011 study, inpatient services are rarely available, if at all.

What Else Is Being Done?

The Andorran government implemented the National Plan of Action on Children and Adolescents 2023-2026 to protect the world’s future through children. This plan was highly successful, to such an extent that a United Nations (U.N.) Special Representative and pediatrician Dr. Najat Maala M’jid praised Andorra for its child protection efforts. According to M’jid, a part of this program’s success is due to two specific protocols: the identification and prevention of child abuse.

In 2022, the European Social Charter published conclusions on Andorra’s social policies. The report highlighted the need for Andorra to implement various protections for its population’s civil rights. Specific concerns around mental and physical medical aid are mentioned. The primary focus was on Andorra’s response to COVID-19. The European Social Charter found that Andorra could offer more programs and assistance to people struggling to maintain a healthy mentality.

Final Remark

Andorra has committed to fulfilling the rights and requests of the European Social Charter, as evidenced by the Andorran Minister of Health (Albert Font) cosigning a memorandum. This memorandum will deepen cooperation and improve the environment for both Spain and Andorra regarding mental health conditions. It is evident through this memorandum that Andorra is fighting for better mental health services for its people.

– Paige Tamasi

Paige is based in Los Gatos, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Poverty and Electricity in Indonesia

Electricity in IndonesiaAs of March 2023, Indonesia faces significant challenges, with 25.9 million of its populace living in poverty. The country struggles with inadequate housing, insufficient access to clean water and frequent food shortages. Additionally, 30 million people lack reliable electricity in Indonesia, for heating or cooking. The government recognizes the urgency of this issue. It is striving to provide essential electrical services to households in dire need.

Generating Wealth Through Electricity

On March 1, 2024, BPS reported an 8.47% increase in food prices, significantly affecting staples such as rice, peppers and oils. This price hike further exacerbates the challenges faced by Indonesia’s impoverished communities. In response, many are focusing on energy costs to secure adequate heating and cooking resources.

Proper energy access can boost household income by 21% and reduce the yearly poverty rate by 1.5%. The installation, training and maintenance of energy facilities and outreach properties generate jobs. Between 2.1 and 3.7 million jobs are estimated to be created by 2030 in Indonesia’s mission for cleaner and more efficient energy. Significant employment and distribution of energy in Indonesia are under review as it transitions to clean energy compared to its recent 61.5% reliance on coal for energy.

The Renewable Energy Skills Development Project

With clean energy in scope, Indonesia is heavily investing in skills development through the Renewable Energy Skills Development Project. This initiative aims to train and increase the number of qualified staff for the planning, maintenance and design of energy plants. This will ensure that expertise is more accessible. By providing education and higher-paying job opportunities in the energy sector, the project not only improves energy accessibility but also boosts household incomes.

The positive impacts are substantial. Developing a skilled renewable energy workforce positions Indonesia as a global leader in sustainable energy. Additionally, it will enhance energy security and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Economically, higher household incomes increase consumer spending, stimulate local businesses and foster economic growth. Improved financial stability leads to better access to education and health care, enhancing overall quality of life.

The focus on renewable energy attracts innovation and foreign investment, further driving economic development. This comprehensive investment in skills development and renewable energy ensures sustainable economic growth, better living standards and a healthier environment for future generations, highlighting the extensive benefits of this strategic initiative.

Policies and Electricity in Indonesia

Indonesia’s Electricity Law ensures affordable, high-quality electricity, prioritizing domestic energy for sustainability. Law No. 15 of 1985 allowed limited IPP participation, expanded by Law No. 20 of 2002. However, this was revoked in 2004 to keep control under the government. Law No. 30 of 2009 confirmed PLN (State Electricity Company) as the primary provider, though private businesses can now obtain supply licenses. Regulations from 2006 to 2013 introduced feed-in tariffs for renewable energy, requiring PLN to purchase from small- and medium-scale sources.

The Indonesian government plans to leverage the power sector to achieve emission reductions in line with NDC targets. With a current 5% growth in demand driven by a 5-6% increase in electricity consumption, Indonesia has significant potential for solar energy. The government aims to achieve a primary energy mix of 23% from new and renewable resources by 2025, increasing to 31% by 2050. This is outlined in Presidential Regulation No. 22/2017 on the General Plan for National Energy (RUEN). This transition is supported by the 2022 regulations that endorsed energy transfer policies.

– Demi Olin

Demi is based in Huntington, WV, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

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