Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

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Organizations Fighting for Mental Health in Liberia

Mental Health in LiberiaThe world’s outlook on mental health is gradually improving, but there are still many parts of global society that turn a blind eye to disorders of the mind. Liberian institutions often ignore mental health in Liberia. Times change, however and if Liberia is indicative of the rest of the world, mental health is getting the attention it desperately needs.

In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that one out of five of Liberia’s population experienced a mental disorder. Subsequent research by WHO indicates an improvement in Liberia’s mental health, with a notable increase in the mental health workforce. Initially, only one psychiatrist served the country, but as of 2020, Liberia has more than 450 mental health professionals, including four psychiatrists, two psychologists and more than 400 mental health nurses. That said, here are some organizations fighting mental health in Liberia.

LiCORMH

The Liberia Center for Outcome Research on Mental Health’s (LiCORMH) health initiatives target unique, often ignored, areas of mental health in Liberia. For instance, LiCORMH now situates sexual abuse under a “fallout of war,” raising attention to the issue as connected to disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Many of the citizens reaching adulthood today are survivors of a civil war in the country that began when they were children. A study showed that 50% of Liberians are coping with PTSD. The country’s growing dedication to mental health helps these survivors deal with their PTSD.

The Carter Center

The Carter Center, as indicated by its motto prominently displayed on the front page of its website — “Waging Peace, Fighting Disease, Building Hope” — grapples with the challenge of realizing this mission in Liberia’s fight against mental afflictions. The organization has trained an army of public health workers in mental health care, ranging everywhere from crisis intervention to diagnoses of mental health afflictions. Additionally, The Carter Center has played a crucial role in community education on mental health, empowering individuals with tools for self-help. Furthermore, the organization focuses on training health workers in self-care.

John F. Kennedy Medical Health Center

Located in the capital city, Monrovia, boasting 50 years of experience, 1000 employees and 57,000 patients a year, the JFK Medical Health Center is Liberia’s “largest referral hospital.” The E.S Grant Mental Health Hospital, a part of the JFK Medical Health Center, is the only hospital combatting mental health in Liberia. It has enough room to care for 80 patients and the workforce to offer outpatient advice to those suffering from mental health concerns.

Child Resource Institute

Tackling mental health is a lofty goal and its aims and strategies must have broad reach and circumspect plans. The Child Resource Institute connects women and children to programs that enable them to become self-sufficient and proactive members of their societies. Despite its economic goals, the institute’s actions affect mental health, too. It builds pathways for Liberian citizens toward brighter futures.

Final Remark

The struggle is far from over, but support for mental health in Liberia will guarantee that the country continues to move in the right direction and that every citizen receives the care they deserve.

– Antonio Muhs
Photo: Flickr

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Education for the People of Guyana

Education for the People of Guyana In 2023, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) initiated a significant educational reform in Guyana. Funded by a System Capacity Grant from the Ministry of Education, this reform aims to enhance the skills of school and district leaders and to overhaul the mechanisms for allocating resources to schools and districts. This initiative seeks to provide further education for the people of Guyana.

The Evolution of Educational Media

The technical lead of UNESCO’s reform includes placing middle-tier actors in the space of education systems including classrooms. Alongside these actors, maybe having a television system can help provide education for the people of Guyana. In the 1950s, Boston University President Dr Daniel L. Marsh warned about the television craze turning young Americans into a nation of morons.

However, National Educational Television (NET) emerged just four years after his claim, challenging its uniqueness. Educational television aims to blend learning with entertainment and as of 2024, social media has surpassed television as the primary learning source for the youth. Popular children’s programs like Sesame Street and Bluey now offer educational content through YouTube channels, granting free access to young viewers.

Technology Gaps in Guyana

Unfortunately, many areas do not have access to the internet or a television license. The country of Guyana, whilst it does have access to both TV and the internet, is reportedly below the regional benchmark for example despite a significant increase from 13.8% in 2007 to 37.3% in 2019 the overall internet usage is minimal indicating a gap in technology advances between Guyana and other countries.

In many countries, a television license is not required unless one watches taxpayer-funded or local television, such as the BBC in the U.K. or Fox News in the USA, which is available for free viewing.

Guyana’s primary television network, Channel One, offers its audience news, talk shows and events at no cost. The nation also features a variety of channels available either through subscription or for free. While areas like Guyana’s capital, Georgetown, enjoy relatively better access to technology and current events, rural regions face significant challenges. These hardships are often a result of poverty exacerbated by climate change impacts on the natural environment and oil spills in Guyana’s waters.

Bridging Guyana’s Educational Gap

For regions impacted by poverty with limited access to technology, such as televisions or the internet, portable televisions equipped with VHS or DVD inputs can prove invaluable. Video-based learning enhances communication skills through visual and auditory stimulation and supports the acquisition of fundamental academic skills in reading, writing and mathematics.

The Common-Sense Census: Media Use by Tweens and Teens reports that television media educates and entertains 62% of children globally, with 58% of teenagers also acquiring many of their skills from television. Despite a minor decrease, a significant majority of young people worldwide still rely on television for learning. Therefore, equipping educational settings with a DVD or VHS player connected to an electric cable can provide access to numerous educational videos without the need for Wi-Fi or internet access.

The country of Guyana makes primary education mandatory with approximately 1000 students enrolled a year. The idea of using visual materials in education seems to be becoming a reality as in 2011, Guyana’s Ministry of Education set up an organisation called the Guyana Learning Channel which became widely available to Guyana families providing them with a mixture of physical and virtual education content.

The Learning Channel, unlike private schools in Guyana, offers its educational services for free, dedicating itself to enhancing resources through the recruitment of teachers and community outreach that involves students’ families. Since 2020, the Learning Channel has broadened its curriculum beyond basic math and literacy to include science, chemistry and language classes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it offered online classes for students with Wi-Fi access and with support from the Guyana Ministry of Education, it provided radio and television programs for students without internet access.

Looking Forward

The education of young people is considered worldwide as a vital importance as it goes beyond teaching Maths and Literature. It also provides them with social interaction, promises them a higher-paid job in the future and keeps them away from destructive influences. Education for the people of Guyana is also receiving a focused push.

The ongoing efforts by the Guyana Ministry of Education, alongside partners like Learning Channel and UNESCO, shine as crucial steps toward securing a brighter future for Guyana’s youth. By investing in education, these initiatives not only aim to reduce poverty and criminal activity but also open up global opportunities for all children. As this collaboration continues, it holds the promise of crafting a safer, more prosperous world for the next generation.

– Phoebe Vaughan
Photo: Unsplash

The Second Term of Nayib Bukele: Impact on El Salvador

Nayib BukeleEl Salvador does not have a long and glorious history of political stability. Over the past five years, Nayib Bukele and his “Nuevas Ideas” Party have managed to massively reduce both violent crime rates and emigration abroad. His landslide re-election on February 4, 2024, was officially confirmed as a supermajority on February 19 following a hand count, which is unsurprising.

Security Policy

Domestic security was a significant plank on Bukele’s re-election campaign platform. The reduction of violent crime in the country has been startling. So, too, are the numbers behind it: 76,000 Salvadorans have been jailed, around 1% of the country’s population. The vast majority have been incarcerated without due process.

The suspension of civil liberties in March 2022 allowed the Bukele administration to move quickly and efficiently. This crackdown has been, it seems, almost universally popular in a country that was, until recently, considered one of the world’s most dangerous and arguably was the most significant factor in Bukele’s landslide re-election.

However, behind the overwhelming public support, key voices have called these policies unsustainable and unlawful. Human rights groups have highlighted instances of both torture and death in custody (218 deaths). The United States (U.S.), El Salvador’s largest trading partner, has raised concerns about human rights violations. Additionally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has put its mooted billion-dollar bailout on pause due to, among other factors, Bukele’s “State of Exception.”

Economic Policy

One of those above “other factors” has been Bukele’s attempt (beginning in late 2021) to introduce cryptocurrency as El Salvador’s principal form of money, replacing U.S. dollars. During his first term, Bukele used his preferred choice of communication, social media, to drum up investment for his plan to turn the country into a cryptocurrency haven.

However, through the bluster and rhetoric, it is clear that El Salvador will still rely on its ties to foreign investors and trading partners. Hesitation by the U.S. to continue its aid program ($629 million between 2019 and 2022) due to fears over the increasingly undemocratic direction the country was heading has led Bukele to start a high-wire policy of cozying up to China. This brinkmanship has resulted in closer diplomatic ties with the U.S., with both superpowers competing for influence in the region.

Since 2019, the start of the first term of Nayib Bukele, extreme poverty has doubled and El Salvador’s national debt stands at a record high of $25 billion. Most foreign investors see the cryptocurrency dream as risky to gamble on. Bukele’s desire to minimize U.S. influence in El Salvador is historically understandable. However, the more reckless and authoritarian his policies become, the less inclined he will be to help the U.S. or the IMF.

The Election

Bukele’s supermajority is confirmed, winning 54 of 60 seats. The hand count revealed irregularities in the electronic voting system. Opposition parties have raised concerns over fraud, manipulation and intimidation at various points in the electoral process. However, it is doubtful that these concerns will be followed up on.

The election of Nayib Bukele to the office of President for a second term was unconstitutional until the rule on second terms was scrapped. One of the many issues with his re-election from a democratic perspective is that Bukele will have unprecedented power (even more so than in his first term) to change the constitution. In many ways, the “world’s coolest dictator” has followed the classic authoritarian playbook and many believe he will continue to do so.

Final Remark

A combination of authoritarian security policies and reckless economic decisions have left El Salvador in a precarious position. However, the next few years will reveal how foreign aid to the country can best be spread around to foster stability.

The potential for a more democratic path to stability in El Salvador exists if the U.S. strategically influences the situation through judicious financial measures rather than the old-school method of going in all guns blazing.

– Rory Giles
Photo: Flickr

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Bangladesh’s Health Workers Restore Vision for 2 Million Adults

Bangladesh's Health Workers Restore Vision for 2 Million AdultsBangladesh’s health workers have played a pivotal role in improving community well-being. Community Health Workers (CHWs) have restored clear vision for 2 million adults in less than two decades. Since 2006, the social enterprise VisionSpring, in collaboration with BRAC Bangladesh, has trained 32,000 volunteers. These trained individuals bring primary diagnosis for presbyopia—a common cause of farsightedness in adults—to remote communities.

Presbyopia is an age-related refractive vision error that makes it difficult to focus on subjects at a closer distance and affects income avenues. At the moment, 1.8 billion of the world’s population is affected by the epidemic. An estimated 826 million are close to visual impairment due to the lack of access to affordable vision correction.

Presbyopia in Bangladesh

One in every two adults in Bangladesh loses livelihood opportunities due to presbyopia, yet appropriate eyewear can significantly mitigate this impact. BRAC and VisionSpring have expanded their efforts to conduct vision tests and distribute spectacles across 61 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts through the Reading Glasses for Improved Livelihoods (RGIL) initiative.

This program has equipped volunteers with the skills to evaluate visual impairments in remote communities, provide affordable reading glasses and make referrals for advanced eye care to ophthalmologists and optometrists. These volunteers receive compensation based on the number of spectacles they distribute.

The Role of Bangladesh’s Health Workers

Moreover, community health workers lie at the heart of primary health care in rural Bangladesh, assisting with family planning, adolescent hygiene, vaccinations and safe antenatal and prenatal care. Health worker’s acceptance within communities fosters participation in the program. Regular visits create a feedback loop that allows for timely adjustments and sustained effectiveness.

Morseda Chowdhury, director of the BRAC Health Nutrition and Population Programme, lauds the contribution of community volunteers to this achievement. He states, “This is a perfect example of an effective public health intervention scalable in a low-resource setting. A multitasking CHW can be utilized to tackle a stubborn problem that impedes the quality of life as well as reduces productivity and thus the economic potential of a country.”

Vision Correction in Addressing Poverty

Vision impairment disproportionately affects poorer economies. In Europe, only 4% of the population experiences presbyopia, but in lower-income countries, up to 94% suffer from poor vision. Studies indicate that presbyopia decreases individuals’ quality of life by 22%. Adults with farsightedness face challenges in performing daily tasks, from winnowing grain and cooking food to maintaining hygiene.

A World Economic Forum survey reported that near-vision impairment affected the earnings of 23% of office workers in Bangladesh. The study also found that workers in Rwanda with poor vision faced termination three times faster than their counterparts. Additionally, 2011 research indicated that inadequate vision correction among the global working population under 50 contributed to an annual productivity loss of $11 billion.

A randomized control trial by VisionSpring, Orbis and Queen’s University Belfast observed a 21.7% increase in productivity among presbyopic tea pickers in India using corrective lenses. The success of the Reading Glasses for Improved Livelihoods (RGIL) program in Bangladesh has paved the way for lower- and middle-income countries to promote the distribution of reading glasses. This neglected yet affordable solution helps restore employment and reduce poverty in the global south.

– Soham Mitra
Photo: Flickr

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UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report’s Call to Action

UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report’s Call to Action Throughout our human history, education has always stood as a fundamental pillar for progress, equity and empowerment. However, as we progress into the 21st century, a formidable chasm emerges—one that threatens to jeopardize the very foundations of this cornerstone. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Education Monitoring Report’s Call to Action serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need to bridge this gap.

In fact, the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report highlights a critical concern—a $97 billion funding shortfall necessary to meet the ambitious Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) by the year 2030. This analysis delves into the critical need to address this educational funding gap and the intricate challenges introduced by the COVID-19 pandemic, identifying key strategies for creating a more equitable future in education.

The $97 Billion Question

The 2023 UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report illuminates a significant financial shortfall obstructing the achievement of global educational goals by 2030. To guarantee universal access to quality education at the pre-primary, primary and secondary levels in low and lower-middle-income countries from 2023 to 2030, an additional $97 billion in funding is necessary. This figure is particularly concerning compared to the initial annual financing gap of $39 billion estimated for the period from 2015 to 2030.

This shortfall poses a risk of leaving numerous countries behind in their commitment to SDG 4. This dire financial situation necessitates a comprehensive reassessment of how education is financed globally, with sub-Saharan Africa most in need, facing a $70 billion yearly shortfall to meet its educational needs: it is estimated, that around 20% of children of primary school age and nearly 60% of upper secondary school age are currently not attending school.

A Crisis Within a Crisis

The onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic has deepened pre-existing educational inequities, bringing to the forefront additional complexities in both funding and educational access. On top of the GEM Report, insights from UNESCO and the World Bank shed light on the significant toll the pandemic has taken on educational outcomes, with projections indicating potential losses amounting to $21 trillion in lifetime earnings for learners at the moment.

This alarming scenario underscores the critical need for a substantial increase in pre-primary teaching staff in economically disadvantaged countries and a concerted effort to address the widespread learning deficits that have emerged globally as a result of the pandemic.

A Rallying Cry for Action

Responding to emerging crises, the World Bank has outlined a five-pillar strategy to revitalize global education. This strategy focuses on preparing and motivating learners, enhancing teacher skills, improving the relevance and availability of learning resources, creating safe and inclusive schools and managing education systems effectively.

This plan demonstrates the Bank’s dedication to systemic reform and outcomes-based methods, providing a guide to navigate the current challenges toward a future where everyone has access to quality education.

Furthermore, the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report emphasizes the crucial role of technology in unlocking the full potential of education systems worldwide. This includes digital learning platforms, online resources and teacher training in ICT, aiming to reduce the pandemic-induced funding gap by up to 75%.

It highlights three foundational pillars necessary for the effective integration of technology in education:

  1. Access to Technology: Ensuring universal access to digital tools and the internet is fundamental. In fact, without widespread access, the benefits of educational technology cannot be fully realized, perpetuating existing inequalities.
  2. Governance and Regulation: The establishment of robust governance frameworks and regulatory mechanisms is essential to guide the use and integration of technology in educational settings. These frameworks should address quality assurance, data privacy and equity concerns.
  3. Teacher Preparation: Teachers are at the heart of educational transformation, and preparing them with the necessary skills and resources to integrate technology into teaching practices is vital. This includes training in digital pedagogies and providing ongoing professional development opportunities.

Investing in the Future

The UNESCO Global Education Monitoring Report highlights a journey fraught with challenges yet brimming with opportunities for transformative reforms. Tackling these obstacles requires evidence-based policymaking and enhanced international cooperation, now more critical than ever.

These actions represent a worldwide commitment to ensure education is an inalienable right, available to everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status.

– Matilde Liboni
Photo: Pixabay

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Heart for Africa: Fighting Hunger in Eswatini

Heart for AfricaIn Eswatini, hunger remains an urgent and pressing issue, with a significant portion of the population struggling to obtain reliable access to food. Recent reports indicate a persistent rise in hunger rates across the nation, with roughly 30% of the population affected by severe food insecurity.

Despite efforts to address this, the hunger challenge along with other health concerns continues to cast a shadow over the lives of many Eswatini citizens. However, amid these realities, nonprofits such as the Heart for Africa Organization have emerged as helpful allies committed to combating hunger and malnutrition through innovative and sustainable initiatives. Its unwavering dedication and support signal a potential turning point for the communities fighting hunger in Eswatini.

The Genesis of Heart for Africa

Janine and Ian Maxwell founded Heart for Africa in 2003, driven by a desire to find purpose following the September 11 attacks in the United States. Janine’s journey took her to Africa, where she confronted the harsh realities of hunger and illness.

Witnessing the daily battles of children, mothers and grandmothers for survival propelled Janine to use her corporate experience for a greater cause. Together, Janine and Ian established Heart for Africa, a nonprofit organization committed to tackling hunger, poverty and disease in Eswatini.

Addressing Eswatini’s Pressing Needs

Janine and her husband’s founding of Heart for Africa quickly positioned the organization as a critical player in addressing Eswatini’s severe challenges. Its focus on this particular nation stems from its acute hunger and health crises. Eswatini, home to just more than one million people, faces some of the world’s harshest conditions, with an average life expectancy of merely 29 years, a stark contrast to the United States (U.S.), where the life expectancy stands at 78 years for its 320 million inhabitants.

This dramatic difference underscores the health care disparities that contribute to nearly half of Eswatini’s population living below the poverty line. Given these dire statistics, Heart for Africa’s commitment to providing hunger and medical aid is both urgent and essential for improving the lives of Eswatini’s residents.

Addressing Child Hunger in Eswatini

In 2009, Heart for Africa launched a feeding program in partnership with rural churches in Eswatini, aiming to feed orphaned children within these communities. More than 350 churches sought support from this initiative, with selections favoring those in the country’s most remote areas. This marked a significant effort to combat child hunger and provide essential aid, laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

By its tenth anniversary in 2019, the organization had not only continued to feed hungry children but had also introduced “well-child check-ups” at its church partner sites to monitor health and wellness. Heart for Africa aims to eliminate malnutrition among the populations it serves through its network of 30 church partners. Additionally, there are plans to increase the feeding program from two to seven days per week at all partner churches, furthering its commitment to nurturing the well-being of Eswatini’s children.

Project Canaan: Combating Hunger

Heart for Africa has introduced initiatives like Project Canaan, focusing on long-term solutions to hunger in Eswatini. This comprehensive land development program introduces various approaches to teaching agriculture by utilizing outdoor and greenhouse crop production, dairy farming, livestock raising and fruit and crop production where feasible. The produce supports Eswatini’s populations, with participants working in sustainable communities.

In addition, Project Canaan aims to foster self-sufficiency and long-term resilience against food insecurity and poverty within local communities. It includes employment training and educational programs to equip community members with sustainable agricultural practices, empowering them with essential skills and knowledge for their future.

Agricultural Projects by Heart for Africa

At the core of this nonprofit is a deep-seated commitment to effect real change in the lives of people and communities throughout Eswatini. Heart for Africa is at the forefront of transformative change through its wide array of innovative programs and unwavering dedication, tackling crucial issues and driving sustainable development.

In addition, this commitment has led to significant infrastructure developments, including the construction of a greenhouse in 2015. This project is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance and diversify agricultural activities, signifying a move toward sustainable farming practices and the cultivation of high-value crops like vanilla. This venture not only promises future income but also creates numerous job opportunities, given its labor-intensive nature.

Food Security through Innovative Farming

Another development that benefits those struggling with hunger in Eswatini is the 30 acres of irrigated fields maintained by Heart for Africa where food is grown for local communities. This farming practice was recently incorporated into the organization’s strategic approach to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agriculture. Since Eswatini currently imports 95% of its fruits and vegetables, the country’s population must shift toward growing food to reduce the reliance on and cost of importation.

In addition to the irrigation fields, Heart for Africa has developed 140 acres of dry fields for maize silage and hay production. This is also integral for fighting hunger in Eswatini since it ensures a sustainable resource for livestock, further contributing to food security and economic stability in the region.

– Caleb Ilayan
Photo: Unsplash

Transforming Waste in India Into Sustainable Jobs

Waste in IndiaSalma, a home-based waste sorter in the Bengaluru neighborhood of Nayandahalli (India), finds dignity in her profession. “I do it with pride when I pick or sort waste,” she says to an independent researcher, Pinky Chandran. This pride stems from recognizing the value within what society deems as waste. With expertise spanning years, Salma can categorize waste into at least 75 distinct types, showcasing the skill inherent in her profession.

The Importance of Waste-Pickers

People like Salma are the backbone of recycling initiatives in many developing nations, collectively known as the informal recycling sector. These waste pickers and recyclers contribute significantly, representing 1-2% of Asia’s and Latin America’s urban populations. Roughly 20% of the waste produced in India is recycled by an estimated 1.5 to 4 million waste pickers, mostly Adivasis and Dalits. Adivasis are indigenous or tribal peoples of India with distinct cultures and traditions. Dalits are marginalized groups traditionally regarded as “untouchables” within the Indian caste system, facing discrimination and social exclusion.

Despite their indispensable role, waste-pickers endure discrimination, health hazards and economic insecurity. Exposure to hazardous materials daily causes them to face various health risks without health care schemes. Privatizing waste collection further exacerbated their plight, leading to many job losses and income instability. Yet, amid these challenges lies an economic opportunity. The waste management market in India is forecasted to reach $13.62 billion by 2025, with a promising growth rate of 7.17%, which means transforming waste into sustainable jobs has enormous upsides.

Under the prevailing system in India, waste pickers face limited prospects for advancement. However, one social enterprise, “Ashaya,” aims to overturn this reality by prioritizing human development.

Unlocking the Human and Economic Potential of Waste Management

Ashaya’s “Without” project aims to transform trash into long-term jobs. This results from founder Anish Malpani’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions for social, economic and environmental problems. Ashaya has grand hopes rooted in humble beginnings. The enterprise’s mission is to increase the value of “waste.” It is considered a resource by those in the waste-picking business and redistributes that value to stakeholders in the supply chain. By concentrating on the frequently disregarded and neglected waste-pickers and utilizing their potential in conjunction with internal technical advancements, they want to build from the bottom up.

Furthermore, Ashaya’s passion is to bring transformative change. They focus on post-consumer metaled Multi-layered plastic packaging (MLP), such as flexible plastic like candy bar wrappers or chip bags. That is how they created the world’s first pair of sunglasses entirely out of “impossible” to recycle MLP. Ashaya transforms MLP waste into high-quality materials by directly sourcing waste from pickers. For this transformation, they offer a premium incentive for MLP and integrate informal workers into the supply chain.

Most of Ashaya’s employees are former waste-pickers. Waste pickers experience stability and dignity through formal agreements and increased wages. Their incomes rise from 1.2x to 3x compared to the informal sector. Moreover, partnerships with cooperatives ensure that 10% of sales support the education of waste-pickers children, fostering long-term community development.

The Way Forward

As for the future, Ashaya expects sub-district-level decentralized “Material Cradles” to act as long-term recycling hubs. These hubs, supported by centralized research facilities, will drive technological advancements to enhance waste value. Through its “Cradle” programs, Ashaya seeks to offer an alternative to profit-driven enterprises, prioritizing social impact and environmental sustainability as the cornerstones of its vision.

As Ashaya continues its journey, the promise of sustainable livelihoods for waste-pickers heralds a transformative era in India’s waste management landscape by transforming waste into sustainable jobs.

– Spencer Springob
Photo: Flickr

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How The BOGO Model Is Fighting Poverty

BOGO ModelThe Buy-One-Give-One (BOGO) model has gained traction in recent years as consumers increasingly demand sustainable and socially responsible business practices. This approach ensures that with every product purchased, a similar item or benefit is donated to communities in need. Despite initial skepticism about its impact on poverty reduction, the BOGO model is making strides in sustainable poverty alleviation, demonstrating its ability to marry profitability with meaningful social impact.

The Rise of the BOGO Model

The BOGO model is often traced to TOMS, a California-based company founded in 2006. TOMS gained widespread recognition for its application of the innovative business scheme, pledging to donate a pair of shoes to a person in need for every pair sold. Following promising success, TOMS expanded the program to include a range of other products including sunglasses (through a partnership with Seva Foundation).

Blake Mycoskie, the founder of TOMS, initially sought to aid children restricted by lack of footwear in getting to school. While partnering with IMA World Health, TOMS initiated its BOGO scheme in Haiti in 2011, distributing hundreds of thousands of pairs of new shoes to children in need in an attempt to break the cycle of poverty.

Evolution and Impact of TOMS’ Giving Model

TOMS was compelled to reassess its approach after facing financial challenges nearing bankruptcy. In 2019, the company decided to move away from the BOGO model to a broader social-giving approach, donating 1/3 of its profits to community-led philanthropy. Overall, despite criticism and financial pressure, the company has made an outstanding dent in the realm of poverty alleviation through the remarkable scale of provision of footwear, sight restorations and access to safe water using the one-one model.

To date, TOMS has provided:

  • Nearly 100 million pairs of shoes
  • 780,000 sight restorations
  • 722,000 weeks of safe water

Analyzing the Critiques of the BOGO Model

While the BOGO model initially garnered praise for its direct impact on impoverished communities, criticisms arose regarding its long-term effectiveness and unintended consequences on local markets.

According to a study of the model, consumer interest is boosted by 60% when tied to charitable donations, but this enthusiasm drops to 52% when consumers consider potential negative outcomes such as aid dependency. During an independent impact study specific to TOMS shoes, several key insights were revealed. The study, which focused on TOMS Shoes’ charitable efforts in El Salvador, sought to address two main questions that have been subjects of criticism toward the BOGO model.

TOMS’ Response to Criticism and Adaptation

The study first examined the effect of distributing free shoes on local markets, discovering that for every 20 pairs of donated shoes, local vendors sold one less pair. It then evaluated the impact of receiving donated shoes on the children. While 95% of the children viewed the shoes positively and wore them regularly, evidence of transformative effects on children’s lives was minimal.

In fact, some concerning findings emerged, such as a slight increase in dependency among the children who received the shoes. Despite criticisms, the study praised TOMS’ responsiveness and commitment to enhancing its program. Through flexibility and transparency, such as offering sports shoes and exploring alternative distribution methods, TOMS demonstrates a commendable approach to poverty alleviation, showcasing the strength of adaptation for continuous improvement in the field.

BOGO Model Evolution: Spotlight on B1G1

TOMS’ move away from the BOGO model does not mark the end of one-for-one schemes but instead signals a shift toward newer strategies that focus on long-term effects and include nonproduct-based contributions.

The model has evolved to counter dependency and negative impacts on local businesses, now emphasizing donations that precisely meet the needs of recipient communities. Leading this transformation is ‘B1G1’, a social movement from Singapore, launched in 2007, that has engaged in 330 million projects worldwide to combat poverty.

So far, through its collaborating businesses, the B1G1 community has provided:

  • 375,020 days of access to income-generating tools
  • 21,214 micro-loans to support impoverished communities
  • 8.2 million days of access to education for disadvantaged children
  • 4 million education tools such as textbooks and stationery.

Combating Poverty: The Initiative’s Impact

These initiatives foster self-sufficiency by promoting job creation and entrepreneurship, vital elements for stimulating economic growth, enhancing productivity and increasing innovation.

  • The B1G1 initiative provides an accessible and seamless opportunity for businesses to integrate their activities (from a product sale, customer interaction, or a special milestone) into specific poverty-reducing projects. These include providing access to education, food, shelter, health care and income-generating opportunities.
  • B1G1 empowers long-term planning by ensuring a consistent stream of contributions, unlike ad-hoc efforts or passive approaches, providing charities and communities with reliable resources.
  • B1G1 encourages growth for businesses navigating an increasingly socially conscious market, encouraging teams to showcase efforts through live website counters, customizable widgets and more than 5,000 apps for integrating business activities with distinct recurring impacts.
  • B1G1 allows nonproduct field businesses to contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty. This diversification ensures that a wider range of societal needs are addressed, beyond those typically associated with fashion-related issues.

Looking Ahead

At the moment, initiatives like TOMS and B1G1 highlight the Buy-One-Give-One (BOGO) model’s significant role in poverty alleviation, underscoring the value of transparency and adaptability in ending poverty cycles.

As its approach to reducing poverty matures, the BOGO model’s evolution teaches that impactful change demands collaboration across all societal sectors. By offering sustained support to impoverished areas within a framework of social enterprise, these initiatives successfully contribute to breaking the poverty cycle.

– Freddie Ledger
Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Guatemala

Charities Operating in GuatemalaAlthough Guatemala has experienced continued economic stability, this has not yet translated to robust poverty reduction. The country’s poverty and inequality rates are among the highest in the Latin America and Caribbean region. In addition, Guatemala has a large and underserved population that is primarily rural, Indigenous and unemployed. 

In 2023, the World Bank estimated that in Guatemala’s population of about 17 million people, 55.2% could be considered poor. Many efforts and programs to improve the living conditions of the country’s poor have arisen from its abhorrent circumstances. Poverty in Guatemala is estimated to increase by three or four times without the intervention of charities and organizations. These are 5 charities operating in Guatemala that work tirelessly to fill this need. 

Charities Operating in Guatemala

  1. Many Hopes: Many Hopes is a global community of volunteers and fundraisers committed to rescuing and raising children away from the influence of injustice. Thomas Keown established the organization in Boston and started it as a rescue home for girls in Kenya. The charity has grown significantly and has partnered with local leaders in six countries in Africa and Latin America, one of which is Guatemala. Its mission is to equip children to become adults who break cycles of injustice and poverty. The organization runs an onsite elementary school that educates 160 students; it also provides vocational training opportunities and college scholarships. They also provide medical care, food and holistic mental and emotional support to children under its care. 
  2. Creamos: This innovative organization is centered around women’s empowerment and has been active since 2008. Creamos focuses specifically on supporting the thousands of women who live in communities surrounding the Guatemala City Landfill (RSCG). According to the organization’s website, women living on the periphery of the RSCG experience the effects of poverty at a more extreme level. Many compete for scarce resources, have a low education level and experience historical employment discrimination because of where they live. The organization’s goal is to empower the community in three main ways. Firstly, it provides these women with a safe work environment where they can make a livable wage by sewing or making jewelry sold on the website. Creamos also provides the community with psychological support and offers adult education programs. This gives women the flexibility to complete their studies so they can spend more time with their work and families. Creamos has created 151 jobs and has more than 600 active participants supported by the organization’s programs. 
  3. SOS Children’s Villages: Since 1976, SOS Children’s Villages has supported youth without parental care or who are at risk of losing it in Guatemala. Its goal is to assist children impacted by poverty and violence and to support them on their way to independence. The organization currently provides housing for 260 children and young people. In addition, it provides thousands of children and families with nutritious food. Further, SOS Children’s Villages gives many Guatemalan children a space to learn in kindergarten and offers opportunities for further education. 
  4. Water For People: Since 1997, Water For People has helped Guatemalan communities access water, sanitation and hygiene. However, due to the high poverty level in El Quiché, it has mainly focused its efforts there since 2007. The organization works with the district government to build piped water supply systems and to train communities to maintain the systems. It also encourages a system that provides families with the products and services they need to build better bathrooms, as well as loans to finance the improvements. In addition, Water For People treats schools in Guatemala as part of the wider community. So, not only are children taught good hygiene practices in school, but the lessons are combined with education. This reinforces the practices at home and promotes sanitation in the community.
  5. Organization for the Development of the Indigenous Maya (ODIM): ODIM is a charity that started providing humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Stan, in 2005. The organization works on the belief that “compassionate, competent and comprehensive medical care and education” are needed in even the poorest of places. ODIM provides access to affordable primary and preventative healthcare for impoverished communities and Indigenous people. There are two clinics from which the organization runs, and combined, they provide a total of 3,000 treatments each year. ODIM also promotes education and integrative and preventative care that the communities would not have access to otherwise. 

A Vision for the Future

With 66% of the population living on less than $2 per day, poverty is a constant reality for most Guatemalan citizens. These 5 charities operating in Guatemala have sparked meaningful change. From empowering women in impoverished communities to breaking cycles of injustice and poverty, these organizations provide critical and indispensable support by addressing various issues that many Guatemalans face daily.

– Danielle Schaafsma
Photo: Unsplash

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Understanding Poverty in Estonia

Poverty in EstoniaEstonia has faced significant challenges in the struggle against poverty over the last few years. Poverty in Estonia has risen in recent times. The Eastern European nation has a population of roughly 1.3 million, with the most recent statistics establishing that around 22.8% of the population is at risk of living in poverty. While these numbers are daunting, solutions are being worked on by various parties, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), that will help ensure long-term recovery for the population.

Issues Being Faced

The high poverty levels in Estonia cannot be attributed to just one key factor. Several issues are contributing to the current crisis. However, one significant issue is the political divide facing the nation. Estonia’s rural and urban sectors are experiencing a high level of division as the Centre Party (representing the majority of the rural areas) lost more than half of its seats in parliament. At the same time, the Reform Party has seen electoral victories resulting in increased power and influence.

According to the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, roughly half of the Estonian population lives in the underrepresented rural regions, which also contain around two-thirds of municipalities. These rural communities lack many of the social and welfare services available to the urban areas of Estonia. Rural communities lack social programs and need to catch up in basic modern amenities. According to a survey by EUROSTAT, only 89% of rural Estonian households have access to the internet.

Urban Areas

While the division between resources available to rural and urban sectors contributes to Estonia’s struggles, this divide does not mean that urban areas are not also struggling. The amount of people living in relative poverty in Estonia has grown dramatically in the last few years. According to the most recent statistics, 48,000 Estonians live in absolute poverty, a rise from 18,000 in 2021. Additionally, the data indicates that nearly 303,900 Estonians now experience relative poverty, an increase of about 3,000 compared to the figures reported in 2021.

Another factor contributing to Estonia’s economic situation is the influx of immigrants arriving in the country. Low birth rates and declining quality of life have affected Estonia’s population. While immigration has positively impacted maintaining a healthy population count, the influx of immigrants has strained resources and heightened regional disparities. According to the Centre for Eastern Studies, around 49,400 immigrants arrived in Estonia in 2022. Immigrants tend to stick to Urban areas, which could further exacerbate the growing disparities between urban and rural communities already struggling to share social resources, potentially worsening poverty in Estonia.

Possible Solutions

Despite Estonia’s struggles, solutions are being proposed to right the ship and alleviate economic pressures on citizens. WHO has proposed several adjustments that could lead to more affordable health care for the most disadvantaged members of Estonian society. In summary, WHO suggests that the Estonian government adjust the Estonian Health Insurance Fund (EHIF) in the following ways:

  • Close the gap in population coverage by changing the basis for entitlement to EHIF benefits to residents
  • Increase and fine-tune benefits to better serve the people in most need
  • Increase protection from all copayments, especially for households with low incomes
  • Abolish balance billing for primary-care services to ensure that access does not depend on the ability to pay
  • Reduce out-of-pocket payments in long-term health care
  • Reduce out-of-pocket payments for outpatient medicines through incentives to prescribe and dispense the cheapest alternatives, price regulation and improvements to how over-the-counter medicines are sold and used

These suggestions from WHO are based on data gathered from various surveys conducted in Estonia from 2015 – 2023.

Wrap Up

Estonia is facing a period of hardship and uncertainty. Political unrest, a struggling population and regional divides are putting intense stress on the country’s economy and people. Yet, solutions are being presented to achieve lasting improvements in the struggle against poverty. As time marches, hope for Estonia’s recovery remains with assistance from guiding forces outside the country, such as WHO, working to solve poverty in Estonia.

– Beau Sansom
Photo: Flickr