Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Happiness Index and Poverty in Finland, Denmark and Switzerland

Happiness IndexThe world of well-being finds bliss in the fight against poverty. In the happiest countries ranking, Finland, Denmark and Switzerland always top the World Happiness Report. Underneath their high happiness index are sophisticated systems of poverty alleviation programs and models of social innovation and inclusion.

Finland: Universal Social Welfare Programs

Finland’s being at the top in global happiness rankings is underpinned by a commitment to universal social welfare programs that guarantee a safety net for all citizens. One such model is the Finnish Education System, famous for its fairness and inclusiveness. Since early childhood education, Finland provides free, high-quality education up to higher education for all, irrespective of socioeconomic background. This egalitarian approach empowers people and mitigates the transmission of poverty from generation to generation.

Moreover, Finland’s Basic Income Experiment is just one more example of how innovative approaches to poverty alleviation work with unconditional cash transfers given to a randomly selected group of citizens. According to the European Commission, “The Finnish basic income experiment ran for two years (2017-2018). The main aim of the experiment was to study whether a basic income would increase participation in the labor market and diminish the bureaucracy relating to social security benefits.

The results show that whereas it had no significant impact on employment, it led to less bureaucracy as well as higher life satisfaction and well-being.” By attending to income insecurity, these programs help foster social cohesion with remarkable success in reducing poverty and further contributing to Finland’s happiness.

Denmark: Flexicurity and Active Labor Market Policies

Part of what boosts Denmark’s happiness index is its adoption of flexicurity: a peculiar concoction of flexible labor markets and comprehensive social security. The Danish Flexicurity Model ensures smooth transitions between jobs with robust unemployment benefits and active labor market policies. One such program is the Danish Active Employment Policy, which includes personalized support and training for job seekers, thus enhancing their employability and, on the other hand, reducing long-term unemployment.

Denmark’s investment in Vocational Education and Training has ensured that the skills acquired are highly relevant and in high demand in the market. This ensures sustainable livelihoods and economic resilience. These initiatives imply that Denmark is on the way toward a dynamic labor market coupled with mechanisms of social protection, which significantly reduce poverty and enhance happiness.

Switzerland: Decentralized Social Welfare

Decentralized governance structures and a deep emphasis on vocational training and apprenticeships are two salient features of Switzerland’s approach to alleviating poverty. Switzerland’s social assistance system, which is managed at the cantonal level, comprises targeted assistance to people in financial difficulties, which is duly attuned to local needs and conditions.

Another characteristic feature of the success story of Switzerland is its Dual Vocational Education and Training system. This all-around program contains theory, in-classroom learning and practical workplace learning experiences. It gives employable skills and hence makes them employable, enhancing their socioeconomic status. Through these initiatives, Switzerland shows the importance of community-driven interventions and skills development in reducing poverty and promoting happiness.

Conclusion

The poverty alleviation programs implemented by Finland, Denmark and Switzerland offer insightful lessons on the crossroads of happiness and socioeconomic policy. From universal social welfare programs to active labor market policies and vocational training initiatives, these countries are vivid examples of ways poverty may be addressed to improve societal welfare.

As the world fights the intractable problems of poverty and inequality, the experience of these three countries with a high happiness index is a lighthouse guide as it shows how innovative policy with inclusive programs can lead to a happier, more equitable future for all.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

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

Photo: Unsplash

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5 Charities Operating in Hawaii

Charities in HawaiiIn the collective imagination, the 50th state is an island paradise full of beaches, palm trees and tiny drink umbrellas. The popular perception can be deceiving, however. Hawaii, despite its veneer of luxury, still hides a sect living in poverty. About 10% of the state’s population lives below the poverty line. When accounting for the cost of living and government benefits, using the Supplemental Poverty measure, the poverty rate in Hawaii jumps to almost 15%, according to a 2018 report. Certain counties are especially vulnerable. In Hawaii County, the poverty rate for 18-34-year-old females is 25%, which is higher than the rate in Mississippi, “the worst in the nation,” according to the same report. Sandy beaches and clear water do not mean the poor disappear. As with all ills, there is hope on the horizon. Hawaii is also a state with a unique slate of charities mobilized across its islands, doing good in a myriad of ways. Here are a select few, just five, charities operating in Hawaii

Aloha Harvest

No one likes waste, least of all wasted food. Aloha Harvest is fighting to fix that. Many Hawaiian charities work to end hunger, but Aloha Harvest takes a unique approach. This Hawaiian charity redistributes food from large corporations like caterers, farms and hotels to the people who need it most. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated that people generated 66 million tons of food waste in 2019 in various places. Meanwhile, Aloha Harvest has distributed almost 1 million ponds of food in 2023.

Hope Services Hawaii

Homelessness is present everywhere in the United States, including Hawaii. Hope Services Hawaii (HSH) offers traditional shelter programs in addition to services like TANF rental housing and case management programs to help people escape homelessness. The charity operates shelters across the state, for demographics like single men, single women and seniors. The slate of shelters is numerous and effective. In the 2020 fiscal year, HSH sheltered more than 700 people, put more than 500 children into housing and helped more than 1,700 people avoid or escape homelessness through all of their programs.

Hale Kipa

Youth are a critical demographic when it comes to escaping a cycle of poverty. Hale Kipa offers multiple services for underserved youth in Hawaii to thrive. Runaway havens, therapeutic foster care and emergency shelters are a few highlights, in addition to community outreach programs. The organization prioritizes youth in crisis (e.g. financial instability) or those in dire need (i.e. the most improvised,) rippling outwards into their families and communities. Even better, all these services are free to those who need them most. Since its founding, the organization has assisted more than 74,000 young people in need.

Waikiki Health

Waikiki Health aims to provide affordable health care for everyone in their island community, by offering health care regardless of ability to pay. Even if a patient cannot pay in full for their treatment, Waikiki Health still provides excellent care, supplementing through community donations, both from individuals and private corporations. It is also conscious of the medical needs and traditions of native tribes and offers native Hawaiian healing rituals at no cost to patients who request them. The organization also offers other health services such as behavioral health and pediatric care.

Hawai’i Food Bank

Food banks across the world are critical to preventing vulnerable people from going hungry. Last on this list of charities operating in Hawai’i is Hawai’i Food Bank. This Feeding America member is best known for its signature Farm to Foodbank program. Beginning during the pandemic, this program donates local produce and traditional food staples to those in need by cooperating with local farms. To date the program has donated more than 7.8 million pounds of local produce, investing more than $10 million in partnership with more than 40 farms and food hubs.

It also offers other programs directed towards children, seniors (a monthly food box and farmer’s market) and a disaster response program. Previous disaster relief efforts involving the organization include the 1992 ‘Iniki eruption, the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent 2023 Maui wildfires. In 2023, Hawai’i Food Bank distributed more than 1.4 million meals worth of food.

Many of the organizations discussed here deal with the most vulnerable, those in need of help to be the best they can be. This slate of charities operating in Hawaii demonstrates people are doing good in every place and time. Even in an area known for its tourism, Hawaii is a hotspot for nonprofits helping people in dire need. Good is a force which is omnipresent and reaches beyond geographic barriers. Always search for people willing to help, in every area and sphere.

– Meredith Wyrick

Meredith is based in Magnolia, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti

Poverty and Mobile Health Technologies in Djibouti The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the concept of mobile health (mHealth) to enhance health care systems delivery globally. mHealth utilizes information and communication technology to provide health care services. In Djibouti, where vast arid landscapes and limited clinical facilities pose significant challenges, mHealth spearheads transformative health care solutions. The country, struggling with infectious diseases and inadequate health care infrastructure, increasingly relies on mobile apps, telemedicine platforms and SMS-based interventions. By harnessing the potential of mHealth, Djibouti is making significant strides in improving health care delivery and advancing toward universal health care coverage.

Enhancing Access to Health Care Services

Many barriers to health access persist in Djibouti, exacerbated by poverty and geographical disparities. The World Bank reports that about 58% of Djibouti’s population lives below the poverty line, struggling to afford basic medical care. Mobile health technologies, however, are providing a vital bridge. Telemedicine platforms such as BaboCare and TelmedDjib enable remote consultations with health providers, effectively connecting patients with medical professionals, especially in rural areas where health care facilities are scarce. These platforms have reported a success rate of more than 70% in consultations conducted via telemedicine.

Empowering through Health Education

Health education is crucial for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Traditional methods of disseminating health information face significant challenges in Djibouti, where illiteracy rates are about 50%, according to the 2022 UNICEF report. Mobile health technologies offer a scalable and accessible solution to these challenges. Apps like AfyaDjib and Sehaty provide targeted health messages and educational content on topics from maternal and child health to infectious disease prevention. These apps have garnered widespread attention and have reportedly increased health literacy among users by 80%.

Disease Prevention Strategies

Disease prevention emerges as a crucial solution to reduce the burden of illness, especially in resource-limited settings like Djibouti. This country, grappling with a high prevalence of communicable diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, struggles partly due to inadequate health care infrastructure. An effective and cost-efficient prevention strategy in Djibouti includes SMS-based interventions. For instance, the United to Beat Malaria campaign disseminates information on preventive measures like using bed nets and indoor residual spraying. According to the organization, this program has protected more than 40 million people from malaria in 61 countries and raised more than $75 million to combat the disease.

Challenges and Future Directions

While mobile health technologies hold great promise, challenges persist in their broad use and sustainability. These services often remain inaccessible to marginalized populations, particularly due to poor internet connectivity in rural areas. Ensuring that mHealth interventions respect cultural norms and include linguistic diversity is equally important. Therefore, future collaborations among government entities, nonprofit organizations and private sector stakeholders are crucial. These partnerships could address these challenges and fully realize the potential of mHealth technologies to improve health care delivery in Djibouti.

Looking Ahead

Djibouti’s commitment to expanding mobile health technologies promises to further revolutionize its health care landscape. As partnerships between governmental bodies, NGOs and private sectors strengthen, these collaborative efforts are set to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of health services across the nation. With continuous innovation and strategic implementation, mHealth has the potential to significantly reduce health disparities and lead Djibouti toward achieving sustainable universal health care coverage.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty Reduction in Uzbekistan

Poverty Reduction in UzbekistanLocated in Central Asia with a population of 36.65 million, Uzbekistan has a poverty rate of approximately 11% as of 2023. Vast swathes of the country are very rural, some with limited access to services. These rural areas are home to almost 50% of the population whose source of income is derived primarily from informal sectors, leaving them vulnerable to economic insecurity. With the assistance of funding from Luxembourg and South Korea, the UNDP of Uzbekistan has developed a range of long-term poverty reduction schemes following SDG1. An integrated approach to poverty reduction in Uzbekistan has brought about major improvements to the quality of life for much of the population. One of the most effective approaches has been funding and economic support for local business startups; a strategy promoting sustainable economic diversification and long-term monetary self-reliance.

The Economy of Uzbekistan

Rich in natural resources with a fruitful agricultural industry, much of Uzbekistan’s economy relies on exports, leaving them vulnerable to fluctuations in international commodity prices. Additionally, the agriculture industry is particularly vulnerable to weather changes. The Aral Sea, an important source of water for agriculture in the region, has faced damages such as drought and salinization.

Foreign remittances also make up approximately 20% of the country’s GDP, which could become a source of economic insecurity if future generations become more distanced. The road to guaranteeing long-term economic security and reducing poverty must involve economic diversification and the improvement of quality of life. Recognizing this, the UNDP has sought to develop an approach which addresses poverty-related issues in a multi-faceted way.

Approach to Poverty Reduction in Uzbekistan

Bringing together a group of representatives for a roundtable discussion, the UNDP of Uzbekistan defined its approach to poverty reduction as one that tackles “the complexities and multiple dimensions of poverty beyond just income,” according to the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative. This involves the strengthening of social protection systems and the effective channeling and distribution of resources to those most in need. This approach recognizes poverty’s multiple dimensions and the importance of a sustainable and holistic approach to improving quality of life in the long term.

One particularly socially engaging scheme saw the UNDP working alongside the Westminster International University in Tashkent. This initiative encouraged university students to design practical poverty reduction strategies which they later pitched to experts. The two winning pitches designed schemes for improving Mentorship Support and Financial Literacy. This scheme is a highly effective example of how governments can engage the knowledge and work of young people in the service of national poverty reduction, improving the country’s quality of life.

Support for Small Businesses

One initiative that has proven particularly successful in improving both quality of life and economic diversity in the region is the provision of funds for local entrepreneurs and small-business startups. The provision of a $30 million loan to support local businesses from the OPEC Fund for International Development is one such initiative that recognizes the importance of SMEs in driving economic growth and boosting economic self-reliance. Recent support for local enterprises correlates with the overall direction of poverty reduction in Uzbekistan. According to Uzbekistan’s Center for Economic Research and Reforms, where the income from local small businesses has risen from 0.7% in 2021 to 2.9% in 2023, national poverty rates have fallen from 17% in 2021 to 11% in 2023.

Support for small and local businesses does not only benefit the country economically but can encourage social inclusion and improve quality of life at an individual scale. Investment and funding for SMEs can be channelled towards, say, sustainable and eco-friendly businesses, providing an incentive for the growth of future enterprises of this nature. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, for example, has directed funding to female entrepreneurs and female-run businesses. This initiative supports women in business and designs an effective model for long-term economic growth, assisting individuals in developing new professional skills that they can apply in different industries. These schemes are not only economically beneficial for the country, but can also be tailored to encourage inclusion and create opportunities, taking an integrated and sustainable approach to poverty reduction.

Multi-Dimensional Approach

An integrated and multi-dimensional approach, which concerns itself with both income and quality of life, has proven highly effective in aiding the process of poverty reduction in Uzbekistan. The UNDP’s approach emphasizes the importance of future-led planning to ensure the most effective resource distribution to address economic imbalances in the nation. By providing economic support and teaching people new skills, strategies such as funding business startups help to facilitate the reduction of poverty in both the immediate and long-term future.

– Aimee Masters

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Everything You Should Know About Poverty in the Philippines

Poverty in the PhilippinesThe Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia, consisting of more than 7,000 islands. The South China Sea bounds it to the west, the Philippine Sea to the east and the Celebes Sea to the south. The country has made gains in poverty reduction but further reduction is necessary. The future of poverty in the Philippines rests on the country’s economic development and the work of government initiatives. Here is everything you need to know about poverty in the Philippines.

The Extent of Poverty in the Philippines

Poverty in the Philippines declined to 22.4% in 2023, down 1.3% from the same period in 2021. However, despite this decrease, the current state of poverty and inequality is startling. The poverty incidence was 22.4% in the first semester of 2023, affecting approximately 25.24 million Filipinos. The poverty incidence refers to the proportion of Filipinos whose per capita income is insufficient to meet their basic needs. On average, a family of five needs at least PhP 13,797 monthly to cover their basic needs, according to the Philippine News Agency. Additionally, the subsistence incidence or the proportion of Filipinos whose income is insufficient to buy basic food needs stood at 8.7%, meaning approximately 9.79 million Filipinos are unable to fulfil basic food needs.

These statistics demonstrate the extent of poverty in the Philippines and provoke the question of why the Philippines continues to struggle from poverty despite its growing economy. The Philippines struggles with a huge disparity in wealth equality. According to the World Bank, the Philippines holds one of the highest Gini Coefficients in the East Asian and Pacific region, sitting at 40.7% as of 2021. This means that, despite economic improvements, those most susceptible to poverty may not see the benefits of economic growth.

The Affected Population

Poverty affects the unemployed and underemployed and those who lack education most in the Philippines as they are unable to find opportunities or jobs which pay a sufficient wage. Environmental instability is also an issue, in regions most vulnerable to natural disasters schools have to shut down, disrupting education. In April 2024, hundreds of schools in the Philippines had to close due to extreme heat, an issue which annually rising global temperatures will exacerbate.

The World Bank estimates that 60% of the land in the Philippines is vulnerable to multiple natural hazards. This causes severe damage to homes and transport infrastructure, interrupting business and education and costing billions to repair. This has been an issue in Mindanao recently, where flooding caused more than 411,000 people to flee.

The State of the Economy

Despite the pessimism surrounding poverty in the Philippines, there is reason for optimism. The Philippine economy grew by 5.5% in 2023, making it one of the best-performing economies in Asia, according to the Philippine News Agency, but high inflation has offset the benefits of income growth on poverty reduction. To overcome inflation, growth must remain consistently high. Currently, economic growth for 2024-2025 could be at an average of 5.8% if growth in the domestic market is achieved. The World Bank expects this domestic market to grow due to the thriving tourism sector and the information technology-business process outsourcing industry. This indicates a bright future for the Philippine economy. For the poorest Filipinos to benefit from the projected growth in 2024, income gains from economic growth must be guided towards reducing inequality.

Positive Progress in Poverty Alleviation

The reduced poverty rate from 2021 to 2023 is a move in the right direction. The government achieved this through initiatives such as the fuel subsidy and the one-time rice allowance, according to the Philippine News Agency. However, greater income equality must still be strived for if President Marcos wants to reach his goal of a single-digit poverty rate by 2028. The Philippine Development Plan of 2023-2028 is one initiative which can help achieve this goal. This plan aims to bring economic and social transformation by reinvigorating job creation and accelerating poverty reduction. It aims to be the mechanism of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and includes programmes to improve education and to upskill the workforce. If The Philippines achieves this plan, it can make further poverty reductions by addressing the key areas where inequality thrives.

To relieve the problem of environmental instability, the government is building new infrastructure under The Metro Manila Flood Management Project. This benefits the Metropolitan Manila area but fails to help other areas susceptible to flooding. This only furthers the issue of inequality, benefiting the city of Manila instead of reaching more deprived areas. More deprived areas struggle to recover from natural hazards, weakening their ability to become more prosperous and resistant to annually occurring hazards. Last year, Bulacan was placed under a state of calamity due to the damage that typhoons and subsequent flooding caused.

Looking Ahead

Despite projected economic growth and current initiatives being in place to address poverty, there remains a significant proportion of Filipinos who are vulnerable to poverty. While there is room for improvement, the country has great potential to reduce poverty further. The progress made in 2023 and the current economic growth projections are a testament to this. The persistence of inequality requires greater attention from the government in addressing areas of education and environmental relief. Initiatives to help those most vulnerable to poverty must be used to ensure more people can benefit from the coming economic growth. In this way, the Philippines can continue to progress in reducing poverty.

– Lauren Alkhalil

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Solutions in the Fight Against Child Marriage in Somalia

Child Marriage in SomaliaAbout 36% of girls in Somalia are married before the age of 18 and 17% are married before the age of 15. Child marriage is expected in a lot of underdeveloped countries and is often a direct product of poverty. Somalia’s government does not have a national strategy or action plan to help combat this issue.

Causes of Child Marriage

Girls Not Brides is a nongovernmental organization committed to action against child marriage by mobilizing communities and drafting solutions. According to the organization, high rates of child marriage can be attributed to many factors, including gender inequality. Somalian girls are often married young to protect family honor. The social norms in the country emphasize the protection of young girls before marriage.

These young women are married for increased protection measures, mitigating instances of sexual violence or abuse. However, gender inequality is only one small portion of a larger problem: poverty. Often, in times of crisis and disaster, families use child marriage as a solution to cope with severe economic hardship.

The European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, a commission that supports countries based on international humanitarian law, reports that at least 6.9 million individuals in Somalia need humanitarian aid this year alone. Nearly half of the population is in severe need. Child brides are one solution to cope with such hardship. Higher rates of child marriage are further exacerbated by food insecurity and droughts, among other significant issues that the county faces.

Government Action and Legislation

The Somali Ministry of Women and Family Affairs created legislation to protect children from marriage. One of these initiatives included the Child Rights Bill. The bill prohibits the marriage of young children and the abuse of children in any form.

Furthermore, the Ministry of Women and Human Rights Development has developed other laws currently in the drafting stage that aim to protect children and implement elements of the Convention on the Rights of the Child into Somalia’s national laws. Adopted in 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child is an expansive treaty on the social, political and cultural rights of children worldwide.

The Humanitarian Relief and Development Council

The Humanitarian Relief and Development Council is a nonprofit, woman-led organization in Somalia supporting women, children and other minority groups facing conflict, poverty, violence and injustice. The organization works directly on the ground to provide community-based mobilization campaigns to spread knowledge and awareness on the harmful effects of sexual gender-based violence and child marriage.

In addition, families also receive health insurance. The nonprofit prioritizes women and children, a vulnerable population, by mobilizing community members to raise their concerns to government officials.

Looking Ahead

According to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Somalia has committed to eradicating child marriage by 2030. According to Girls Not Brides, global progress varies by country. However, the practice continues to decline globally. The organization reports that around 68 million cases have been prevented in the last few years. Progress has been linked to socioeconomic status, meaning economic growth plays a key role in reducing rates of child marriage.

In conjunction with humanitarian aid organizations, government initiatives are one of the few solutions to stop this slowly but surely decreasing problem. Child marriage prevention in Somalia starts with ensuring the rights of children and supporting families in economic hardship.

– Dominic Samaniego

Dominic is based in Fullerton, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty in the Hindu Kush-Himalayas

Poverty in the Hindu Kush-HimalayasThe Hindu Kush-Himalayas (HKH) is a mountainous region spanning several countries and is home to more than 210 million people. The area is known for its gorgeous landscapes, rugged terrains and adventure-based tourism. It is also home to many ethnic minorities and indigenous groups. However, the Hindu Kush-Himalayas region is currently burdened with high rates of poverty.

ICMOD Study

The International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICMOD) has identified distinct patterns in poverty in the Hindu Kush-Himalayas region. ICMOD characterizes its analysis of poverty in the HKH region by looking at Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan, looking solely at the country’s mountainous regions and how poverty manifests in the mountainous areas. ICMOD studies identified that more than 60 million people live in poverty in the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region, noting that this figure did not include China and Myanmar due to insufficient data. Its examination showed that poverty in the mountains was higher than in the nonmountainous regions other than India.

Poverty in Mountainous Regions 

The ICMOD study looked at the different impacts that poverty has on people living in these mountainous regions. One significant finding was that one common determiner of mountain-specific poverty was limited access to resources due to physical determinants, such as access to resources up in the mountains. This can lead to inaccessibility to basic plumbing, adequate food resources and clean water.

The data also shows the region to have inadequate access to infrastructure such as markets, hospitals and bus stops. This lack of access makes it more difficult to address health issues, education and other institutional resources. These challenges have made it really difficult to assess different dimensions of poverty in mountainous regions. It’s not as simple as funding but rather accessibility to the resources themselves.

Combating These Issues

Several initiatives are being taken to combat these inequalities in access and difficulties for the population in the mountainous regions. The ICMOD has enacted an initiative called AdaptHimal, which aims to improve the livelihood of the rural poor in the HKH region through environmental and socioeconomic changes. It enables those living in these regions to integrate themselves into loan projects better and introduce institutions that can target their specific needs.

In addition, the organization has partnered with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) to help developmental needs in this area by medicating risks attributed to environmental effects in the HKH. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has also provided funding and risk assessment to these regions to help them acclimate better and adapt their investments and networks to environmental changes.

Final Remark

Despite work being done to improve infrastructure and resources in the HKH region, there is still more to be done in terms of allocating adequate resources to hard-to-reach areas and mountainous regions in the HKH. This will aid in the decline of poverty and provide better living standards for those in the Hindu Kush-Himalayas.

– Adrita Quabili

Adrita is based in Atlanta, GA, USA and focuses on Politics and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Work of The British Red Cross in Afghanistan

British Red Cross In AfghanistanConsidered one of the poorest countries in the world, Afghanistan is facing a rising humanitarian crisis characterized by ongoing conflict and violence, food insecurity exacerbated by El Niño, displacement of people and economic decline. Ultimately, poverty in Afghanistan is further exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and natural disasters, which leave many Afghans displaced. One major factor that has worsened poverty in Afghanistan has been the high prevalence of earthquakes, which has created instability, destruction and even death.

Ultimately, this has contributed to the collapse of Afghanistan’s health care systems at a time when Afghans need it the most. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), more than 34 million Afghans live in poverty. As a result of a rapid increase in the crisis in Afghanistan due to the security crisis, 23.7 million Afghans will require emergency assistance to survive in 2024.

For more than 30 years, the British Red Cross has been aiding Afghanistan through crises by responding to conflicts, natural disasters and individual emergencies. A part of a global volunteer network, the charity aids Afghans by helping them prepare for and withstand emergencies in their communities. Following is how the British Red Cross is aiding Afghanistan through times of crisis.

Support for Individuals Affected by Earthquakes

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan has become one of the world’s most severe. A country riddled with many burdens, one major hazard for the people of Afghanistan is earthquakes, which the government cannot compensate for due to a high prevalence of poverty. Statistics show that in 2016, more than 56% of Afghanistan’s population lived below the national poverty line; there is no doubt that the presence of frequent earthquakes has had a detrimental effect on the lives of many poverty-stricken Afghans.

In 2023, four large earthquakes measuring a magnitude of 6.3 each struck Afghanistan, claiming more than 2,000 lives, injuring 9,240 and seriously damaging and destroying 1,320 homes. In addition, hospitals have been overwhelmed, education has been interrupted due to school closures and vital resources have become scarce. Ultimately, this has resulted in the need for emergency humanitarian assistance for Afghans who have been injured and displaced.

In response, the British Red Cross is providing emergency resources for people affected by earthquakes. Providing Afghans with vital resources has enabled them to feel secure once again. The charity has provided 10,000 blankets, 4,000 tarpaulins, 6,000 jerrycans and food parcels for 2,000 households. In addition, local Afghan Red Crescent teams responded to the emergency immediately by helping with search and rescue, providing continuous aid to those seriously affected by earthquakes. Long-term support, especially for women and girls, is also provided.

Providing Medical Care

While health care in Afghanistan has always been scarce, recent statistics show that due to factors such as conflict as well as the devastating effects of earthquakes, there has been an alarming increase in the need for humanitarian aid in Afghanistan. Challenges in the health care system include a shortage of professionals, limited supplies and difficulty reaching remote and conflict-ridden areas.

As a direct result of underfunding in the health care system, eight million Afghans will lose access to life-saving health care, nearly 450,000 will lose access to life-saving trauma care and more than 1.6 million will have little to no access to mental health care and psychological support. This is detrimental as the recent effects of conflict have caused a spike in the need for health care.

In response, the British Red Cross has established 140 health teams in collaboration with other nonprofits, reaching nearly 330,000 people nationwide. These teams have provided health care services, such as routine immunizations, in areas other organizations cannot reach.

Looking Forward

Factors such as earthquakes and conflict and an underfunded health care system make it evident that Afghans still struggle to afford medicine and transportation to reach health services. The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan necessitates continuous support from organizations to keep Afghans safe and healthy. With support from the British Red Cross, millions of Afghans have begun to rebuild their lives through the emergency aid provided by the organization. Despite these efforts, conflict and environmental disturbances remain severe issues for the people of Afghanistan.

– Emily Whatley

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

Photo: Flickr

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Hotel Con Corazón Has Heart for Latin America

Hotel Con CorazónHotel con Corazón opened its doors in 2008 after founders Onno Oostveen and Marcel Zuidhof agreed they wanted to impact the world. The pair decided to start their journey in Nicaragua, one of the poorest countries in Latin America.

Hotel Con Corazón’s Heartfelt Journey to Nicaragua

Oostveen and Zuidhof traveled to Nicaragua during a holiday in 2006. While there, they noted the lively potential for tourism and the lack of funding for education. By 2008, the pair had moved to Nicaragua and decided to support the local community by opening Hotel con Corazón. The pair now employs a fantastic team that supports the hotel and even employs teachers for schools.

Empowering Youths in Nicaragua, One Stay at a Time

Hotel con Corazón mission is to provide accessible education for children in need within Latin America. The World Bank has reported that 70% of 10-year-olds in Nicaragua cannot read or understand basic texts. The lack of education for children may result in a lack of earnings in the future. More than 60% of children in Nicaragua are living in educational poverty. Hotel con Corazón aims to give back the chance of a bright future for the youths of Nicaragua. It hopes that youths can stop the cycle of poverty for themselves and their families by doing this.

Since its first hotel opened to the public in Granada, Nicaragua, the hotel company has assisted 250 children annually through primary and higher levels of education. In 2024, the hotel group will have supported an estimated 4,000 children in completing their education. Hotel con Corazón invests 100% of its profits into local education. The hotel is aesthetically designed and boasts a swimming pool and a bar where guests can buy drinks and food. It also has two patios where visitors can relax and enjoy breakfast or lunch. Additionally, it provides free Wi-Fi and entertainment for guests.

Guest profits provide the hotel with funding to support extracurricular activities for youth and parental workshops. In addition to helping youth through education, Hotel con Corazón offers development and income opportunities to several Nicaraguans each year. It further supports the local economy by buying produce from the community and running a commercial business. The hotel group can support 22 employees in its Nicaraguan hotel, where it also offers development programs so that employees have access to further education for themselves or their children. The hotel has made several positive impacts on Nicaragua, supporting the country through poverty in as many ways as it can.

Outreach to Oaxaca

In 2018, the hotel group decided to expand its social impact. Therefore, it opened the first Hotel con Corazón in one of the poorest cities in Mexico. According to the World Bank, 26% of Mexican children are not enrolled in pre-primary education and only 57% of 10-year-olds can read. Oaxaca is rated the second lowest city in Mexico for its education levels. Hotel con Corazón’s Oaxaca branch continues a similar vision as it does in Nicaragua.

The company invests all profits from guest stays and purchases made in bars and its hotel shop into education at all levels in Oaxaca. The hotel supports the Oaxaca Learning Center, which runs a motivational program for 60-70 youths and funds educational costs for those who most need it. Hotel con Corazón is also partnered with Mundo de Talentos, a nonprofit organization that provides children with free occupational guidance. Mundo de Talentos originated in Chiapas, Mexico. In 2023, Hotel con Corazón funded the nonprofit to expand its reach to Oaxaca. This funding enabled the nonprofit to begin its annual program in Oaxaca with 40 students enrolled.

Additionally, Hotel con Corazón has created a learning space within Oaxaca, where young people can learn trading skills that they can use in hospitality work. It offers apprenticeships to unemployed youths who are also not in education and aims to help them find work they can enjoy. For the youths already in education, Hotel con Corazón offers apprenticeships where young people have the potential to train in its Oaxacan hotel.

The Final Resort

Hotel con Corazón has made impressive impacts in changing the lives of youths through education and supporting the countries it operates in through poverty. The hotel group’s latest mission is spreading love in Latin America. It plans to open 10 more hotels in the next 10 years. The aim is to regenerate its educational and motivational schemes for the poorest parts of Latin America that need the most help. It has already begun building three branches in Costa Rica and Mexico. By 2025, its newest branch will open for guests in Monteverde, Costa Rica.

– Raquel Smith

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

Photo: Hotel Con Corazón

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One Home at a Time: Building Generational Wealth in Colombia

One Home at a Time: Building Generational Wealth in Colombia On Feb. 12, 2023, Catalina Velasco, Colombia’s housing minister, announced changes to the government’s Mi Casa Ya program, set to take effect in 2024. These modifications aim to help impoverished Colombians purchase their first home. By prioritizing the most vulnerable families, Mi Casa Ya could address homelessness while building generational wealth in Colombia. More than 6.8 million people suffered internal displacement during the country’s 52-year civil war, leading to an extreme housing crisis and a national poverty rate of 28%. The Colombian Ministry of Housing, City and Territory (MVCT) first implemented Mi Casa Ya in 2015 to tackle this housing crisis.

Background and Expansion of Mi Casa Ya

Mi Casa Ya is a government assistance program that serves to aid low-income families with the purchase of their first property by granting housing subsidies. Originally, Mi Casa Ya only served in three cities: Barranquilla, Bogota and Cali. However, under the Petro administration, the MVCT announced that starting in 2024, the program would expand nationwide and prioritize the country’s most vulnerable populations, particularly the homeless. 

Eligibility and Benefits of the Program

To qualify for Mi Casa Ya, the applicant must meet the following criteria. First, the applicant must not own a home in Colombia. Second, they must not have previously received any sort of housing subsidiary. Third, the applicant must have been approved for a mortgage credit. Finally, they must be registered in the Sisbén IV, the System of Identification of Potential Beneficiaries of Social Programs, which classifies Colombian citizens based on their socioeconomic status. 

Sisbén IV separates individuals into four groups: A (extreme poverty), B (moderate poverty), C (vulnerable population) and D (nonpoor, nonvulnerable). An applicant’s ranking in the Sisbén IV determines how much monetary assistance they will receive with the most economically vulnerable granted the highest amount of financial aid. 

Once deemed eligible for the Mi Casa Ya grant, the applicant receives a downpayment subsidy that varies anywhere between 26 million COP and 39 million COP, roughly $6,000 to $10,000. To reduce monthly payments, during the first seven years, Mi Casa Ya grantees will also obtain interest rate coverage of their mortgage credit.

Impact and Importance of Housing Wealth

Since its inception in 2015, the MVCT has allocated 50,000 Mi Casa Ya subsidies annually. This initiative aims to provide the impoverished with the opportunity to own homes and build generational wealth in Colombia. About 90% of the recipients fall under the Sisbén IV categories of extreme poverty, moderate poverty and vulnerable populations.

According to a 2004 study by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Policy Development and Research, low-income families significantly increase their wealth accumulation after purchasing a home. For the impoverished, “housing wealth is total wealth,” meaning it constitutes their entire net worth. Thus, by expanding homeownership opportunities, governments not only tackle poverty and homelessness but also boost generational wealth for their most vulnerable citizens.

Looking Ahead

The expansion of Colombia’s Mi Casa Ya program marks a promising step toward addressing long-standing housing disparities. By focusing on the country’s most vulnerable populations, this initiative is set to empower countless families through homeownership, fostering stability and economic advancement. As the program rolls out nationwide, there are hopeful expectations for the housing crisis resolution and the creation of more generational wealth in Colombia.

– Naima Rasheed

Naima is based in New York, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr