Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

NRC Reshaping Education in Venezuela

NRCVenezuela’s vastly underfunded education department reflects the backwardness of the country’s primary and secondary education. In recent decades, nationwide political and economic turmoil has allowed unstable education policy to occur, causing 85% of public schools to lack internet access, 69% to suffer constant electrical shortages and 45% to go without running water. A generation of young Venezuelans are left out of the education system and these academic deficiencies could result in further pulling the population into poverty. To ensure this dismal future does not befall the nation, the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), a humanitarian, nongovernmental organization based in Norway, has set up an intricate program to structurally redefine the education system in Venezuela for the good of incoming generations of Venezuelans.

NRC’s Role in Venezuela

The NRC had already identified the beginnings of a protracted crisis in Venezuela when it established its presence in 2005. In 2019, it installed an independent office in Caracas to efficiently deal with the consequences of the worsening political and economic crisis. Such steadfast commitment has made it one of the most prominent NGOs in Venezuela, with an annual budget of $10 million, which helps provide various humanitarian resources to impoverished Venezuelans.

Education Efforts

Educational possibilities are some of the prime resources the NRC provides to the Venezuelan population. The NGO’s concern with education stems from the belief that it bestows a generation of Venezuelans with productive skills that allow them to lift their entire community out of poverty. The NRC education program focuses on returning students to school after lengthy absences. Students often drop out of school due to their inability to afford education, deteriorating school infrastructure, lack of capable teachers and child labor. The NRC individually addresses these issues to ensure that the Venezuelan education system achieves progress in the right direction.

To foster a more welcoming and hygienic environment, the NRC improves the infrastructure in public schools by conducting repairs and introducing innovations that reduce overcrowding, among other things. Teachers receive training to handle high capacity classes and higher academic requirements, enriching the educational experience for Venezuelan students. Educational materials such as stationery supplies, textbooks and field trips are also provided to teachers and students alike, further improving the quality of education and making it more affordable for Venezuelans from impoverished households.

Political Collaboration and Impact

The NRC also works at a political level, collaborating with the Ministry of Education to establish a long term plan to reform primary and secondary education and to ensure student displacement challenges are addressed in Venezuela. Additionally, the NRC provides humanitarian resources such as food, water and livelihoods to the people of Venezuela alongside educational opportunities. Its WASH program has provided water security to more than 37,000 Venezuelans in both private and public spaces, particularly public schools. 

Ultimately, the NRC educational program has helped more than 11,000 Venezuelan children return to school. However, that is only about a fraction of the 1.5 million out-of-school children in the country. Since their work has been so productive in such a short period, NGOs like the NRC deserve more funding from states like the United States (U.S.) to bolster their efforts at reforming education in Venezuela, allowing even more children to learn skills that can lift them out of burgeoning poverty.

Looking Forward

The NRC has been persistent in its efforts, as evidenced by an increase in its funding to $10 million in November 2023. While its path forward has been slow and incremental at times, the organization’s commitment to lifting Venezuelans out of poverty serves as a humanitarian model for similar NGOs.

– Parth Mishra
Photo: Flickr

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Human Traffickers Thrive Amid Global Conflict

Human TraffickersThere are several reasons why people flee their home countries. War, persecution, climate disaster, hunger and extreme poverty all create circumstances that encourage people to seek out a better, more stable life. UNHCR noted more than 110 million forcibly displaced persons by the end of 2023. Human traffickers thrive amid global conflict, preying on displaced and vulnerable refugees. In a new host country, refugees may not be familiar with the legal system or language and are unlikely to have stable housing or income. The overwhelming majority of refugees reside within camps, with limited educational or job opportunities. Many are unable to gain legal status in their host country and are therefore unable to make an income.

Human Traffickers’ Tactics

Traffickers take advantage of vulnerabilities, particularly situations of poverty, using deceptive tactics to lure refugees into fraudulent travel and employment arrangements. For example, women and girls are commonly presented with vague job opportunities, with the promise of financial stability, only to be sold, trafficked and abused. Smugglers who promise refugees a safe journey and admittance into host countries, often turn around and demand more money. With little to no money to give, it is not uncommon for smugglers to exploit displaced individuals through sex trafficking.

Women and Children at Risk

Displaced children become vulnerable to child marriage and sex trafficking in exchange for food or clothes. Syrian children are often subject to child marriage, including to members of various terrorist organizations. These arrangements can lead to sexual slavery and forced labor. Similar reports of Afghan girls forced into arranged marriages have existed since the Taliban takeover. It is not uncommon for Afghan girls to face further exploitation in sex trafficking by their new husbands.

Romania has received more than 80,000 Ukrainian refugees since February 2022, when Russia invaded Ukraine. In a World Vision survey in Romania, 97% of participants had heard of instances of human trafficking. Over half of these people have identified women as the most at-risk population.

According to the International Rescue Committee, by the end of 2022, 52% of all global refugees came from three countries; Syria, Ukraine and Afghanistan. All three of these countries are struggling with conflicts and authoritarianism. Conflict weakens a country’s political stability, hence increasing economic vulnerabilities. To properly address and shut down human traffickers thriving amidst global conflict, greater awareness surrounding authoritarian government structures is necessary.

Taking Action Against Human Trafficking

The Global Protection Cluster (GPC) is a “network of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), international organizations and U.N. agencies, engaged in protection work in humanitarian crises including armed conflict and disasters.”

The GPC, in terms of human trafficking, aims to ensure that partners and governments tasked with protecting people from trafficking are well-equipped to handle the task. It created the Task Team on Anti-Trafficking in Humanitarian Action in 2017. The Task Team is co-led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UNHCR.  Task Team members include InterAction, the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) and other major humanitarian organizations.

– Sophia Loizos
Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know About Poverty in Azerbaijan 

Poverty in AzerbaijanAzerbaijan’s economic landscape, which it’s energy sector significantly shaped, stands at the crossroads of prosperity and disparity. In order to delve into the intricacies of poverty in Azerbaijan, it is crucial to understand the broader context of its political economy and the role it plays regionally. This article combines insights into poverty issues with a comprehensive overview of Azerbaijan’s economic sectors and regional significance, as well as successes in alleviating poverty in Azerbaijan through government initiatives.

Background on Poverty and Inequality in Azerbaijan

In Azerbaijan, as of 2021, 5.9% of the population lived below the National Poverty Line, and the total unemployment rate stood at 6%. While absolute poverty has decreased in the country over successive decades, concerns persist regarding relative poverty and perceived inequality. Rural-urban disparities contribute significantly. It was reported that in 2009, there were notable gaps in access to gas supply and sanitation between urban and rural areas.

Gender disparities and a rigid political landscape further complicate Azerbaijan’s social fabric, as women bear the burden of unpaid care work and face higher unemployment rates. The political elite’s focus on energy and security issues, rather than democratic values, poses challenges to broader societal inclusion. These complex challenges highlight the need for comprehensive strategies addressing economic and social dimensions of poverty in Azerbaijan.

The Resource Dilemma

Baku’s architectural grandeur echoes the wealth derived from the oil and gas sector, constituting 91% of total exports in 2022. The PSA (Production-Sharing Agreement) of 1994, known as the “Contract of the Century,” has been pivotal in Azerbaijan’s economic trajectory. However, this wealth has not seamlessly trickled down, leaving citizens outside Baku grappling with financial challenges and underscoring the need for equitable wealth distribution. Notably, as of 2022, the top 10% of earners commanded 674 manats per month, while the bottom 10% struggled with an income of 183.4 manats per month, illustrating stark economic disparities.

Consumer Confidence and Economic Sentiments

While urban-rural disparities persist, a deeper analysis of the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) reveals pessimism among respondents about the country’s economic trajectory. Negative sentiments and a lack of transparency result in calls for policy reforms to restore confidence in government economic strategies. Results from a study with 500 participants in 2022 indicate that 44% mentioned worsening financial circumstances in the past 12 months, 80% believed the country’s economy deteriorated and 96% observed an increase in prices. Regarding future expectations, 28% predicted worse financial conditions in the next 12 months, 61% thought the country’s economic state would worsen and 81% anticipated rising prices.

Regional Economic Dynamics

Looking at the broader picture, Azerbaijan’s economic influence transcends its territorial confines. The transformative deal of 1994, focusing on oil resources,  catapulted Azerbaijan into a regional economic powerhouse, leaving an enduring impact on key sectors like transportation and energy infrastructure. In the wake of this ground-breaking agreement, defining regions and skillfully managing relationships became even more critical, adding layers of complexity to the quest for sustained economic stability.

Azerbaijan’s strategic alliances, notably with Turkey, play a pivotal role in its economic narrative. Potential threats arise from political challenges in pipeline transportation routes, making it crucial to balance mutual dependence while managing socio-economic relations for sustainable economic routes and regional leadership.

Positive Progress in Poverty Alleviation

Azerbaijan’s robust state initiatives, including the ‘National Programme on Women’s Issues‘ and the ‘State Strategy on the Development of Education,’ have yielded substantial progress in poverty alleviation. The ASAN Service, recognized with the UN Public Service Award, significantly streamlined public services.

Notable successes include Azerbaijan being considered a high human development nation since 2010, and from 2003 to 2015, the country saw a decline in women’s unemployment from 12.7% to 5.9%; a 100% literacy rate among 15-24 year-olds; and a reduction in the absolute poverty rate from 49% to 4.9%. The State Statistical Committee reported a significant decrease in the poverty rate from 61.5% in 1995 to 4.8% in 2019, highlighting the nation’s commitment to addressing poverty challenges.

Looking Ahead

As poverty in Azerbaijan continues to pose problems, the state simultaneously grapples with its role as a regional economic powerhouse. The PSA’s impact on the energy sector, while monumental, necessitates economic diversification and a move toward a comprehensive modern economy.

Turkey’s economic transformation could serve as a source of inspiration for Azerbaijan. The call to diversify sectors, import technologies and exchange expertise sets the stage for long-term economic trends. The transition to a knowledge-based economy, geopolitical savvy, and societal inclusivity could unlock a future where Azerbaijan thrives as a model of economic resilience and regional cooperation.

–Arshiya Eslamdoust
Photo: Flickr

Menstruation and Misery in Africa’s Mozambique 

Menstruation in MozambiqueMozambique, located in South East Africa with a population of 30 million people, has seen progress in reducing poverty. The poverty rate fell from 70% in 1996-1997 to 46.1% in 2014-2015. However, the rapid population growth has counteracted this improvement, leaving the absolute number of people in poverty relatively unchanged.

Notably, poverty has a more significant impact on women in Mozambique compared to men. Women face distinct challenges, with one of the most pressing issues being the management of menstruation due to their limited incomes.

The international poverty line is set at $2.15 per person per day, implying that a large part of the world is unable to fulfill basic needs related to nutritional and health security. Many women in developing countries find it exceedingly difficult to allocate their income to period management in the face of dietary and familial needs. In such a situation, the health and well-being of countless women are jeopardized due to an inability to access underwear, sanitary pads and soap. Menstruation in Mozambique continues to remain a severe challenge for poor women and young girls.

Need for Improvement

According to a 2021 research paper, less than 20% of schools across Africa (including Mozambique) provide basic services such as sex-separate facilities, water supply, doors with a lock and waste disposal bins, indicating the severe need for improvement.

The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the problems associated with menstruation in Mozambique. Because of falling income and output, many women could no longer practice safe and hygienic menstrual management. The government supplied “dignity kits” in response to the problem. Such kits include washable menstruation pads, underwear, whistles and lights that help women suffering from period poverty.

“Fátima Hassan, a 16-year-old teenager, fled…to Pemba City with her mother to escape from violent attacks. Now living in a safe place, she was one of 300 women and girls who took part in a COVID-19 prevention and control session and received a female ‘dignity kit,’” UNFPA reports.

Between April 2019 and May 2020, the government of Mozambique and UNFPA distributed more than 16,500 dignity kits. Recent data from refugee camps in several low-income countries show a more satisfactory level in terms of performance.  Most women reported being satisfied with the menstrual services and physical facilities in Mozambique and Iraq. At the same time, less than half of the females in refugee camps in Cameroon, Malawi and South Sudan could say the same.

However, the divides between women and men still loom large in the nation’s fight against poverty.

For example, The National District Development Fund in Niassa was an important source for financing and investment in rural projects and initiatives. In allocating the funds, the project prioritized “agriculture rather than businesses, women rather than men and associations rather than individuals.” However, with time authorities were directing the scheme toward men and businesses, losing the rural and female-oriented focus.

Helvetas Mozambique

Helvetas Mozambique has been operating in Mozambique since 1979. Its focus has been on the northern region with a special focus on rural issues. The organization’s work includes building wells and increasing access to potable clean water for the local communities as well as improving agricultural efficiency and output.

The IDP Wash Project began through the efforts of Helvetas Mozambique. With support from UNICEF, the IDP Wash project spans across 11 communities in Cabo Delgado’s Ancuabe district, focusing on enhancing access to safe water, and sanitation and promoting hygiene in the well-being of the population.

In late 2021, the Marrupa host community witnessed the establishment of its first-ever water infrastructure—a concrete tower housing a 10,000-liter tank, powered by solar panels. This significant development, benefiting more than two thousand families, marks a collaborative effort toward sustainability, with the community pledging to maintain the system through contributions determined in upcoming Water Supply Committee meetings.

Looking Ahead

Menstruation in Mozambique is still a taboo subject. Continuing government efforts to provide dignity kits alongside more awareness could reduce the stigma surrounding menstruation in the country.

– Udyan Negi
Photo: Pixabay

US Solar Collaboration to Power the Developing World

US Solar CollaborationAs the greater community of nations constantly collaborates for sustainable, alternative energy solutions, one key issue that has been at the forefront of these discussions has been developing nations’ inability to take advantage of the road toward alternative energy. Due to the experimental and expensive nature of alternative energy and the need for more infrastructure, the world leaves developing nations behind in its collective pursuit of new methods of harnessing energy to power the increasingly industrialized planet. The United States (U.S.), particularly U.S. solar companies, can mitigate the absence of resources by expanding its solar power grid and forming a symbiotic relationship with the developing world. U.S. solar collaboration can be an innovative form of global poverty relief that grows the U.S. solar industry and its profits, expands developing nations’ economies and provides the globe with new energy sources.

This crucial shift could transform many nations where access to electricity is greatly underdeveloped. Nations like Cambodia where 75% of the population lives in rural areas could have their livelihoods transformed through American solar collaborative efforts.

Global Solar Expansion and US Opportunity

Developing countries present immense opportunities for U.S. solar collaboration. Since CarbonBrief indicates that developing countries have new driving potential in solar energy output, communities are more open to seeking affordable and sustainable energy sources. As leaders in innovation and technology, U.S. solar companies are in the most strategic position to contribute to this global paradigm shift. Solar Energy International, an organization numerous U.S.-based solar companies attend, is an example of one of the newest trends by U.S. companies, taking advantage of the increasing affordability of solar technology and the growing demand for alternative energy sources. Consequently, U.S. companies have acquired new opportunities to engage with the developing world in this project.

Examples of Successful Collaboration

USAID lists a notable instance of U.S. solar collaboration leading development efforts as partners within the private sector that the agency works with to power Africa. Several U.S. companies have partnered with USAID to support energy growth in Africa, “committing toward more than $40 billion in investments into African energy markets,” including energy grids within sub-Saharan Africa.

Additionally, 60Hertz Energy is a U.S.-based startup that implemented computerized maintenance management software systems to streamline operations and maintenance for solar infrastructure that can withstand extreme environments. As it works to establish itself in sub-Saharan Africa, it has developed a presence in Benin, Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Uganda, according to USAID. The work that 60Hertz Energy commits itself to would improve the quality of life for residents and could position the U.S. solar industry as a key player within the emerging alternative fuel paradigm.

In another instance, Acumen, a U.S.-based nonprofit impact investment fund, has invested $88 million into 82 different companies that provide “agricultural inputs, quality education, clean energy, health care services, formal housing, safe drinking water and sanitation services to low-income” recipients in East Africa, West Africa and Latin America, according to USAID. This strategic effort by the U.S.-based fund to finance various companies could make a direct impact by providing a multifaceted approach that can harness results favorable to the African solar power industry and showcase the benefits of cooperation by multiple firms.

Economic Growth and Sustainable Development

Beyond the numerous advantages for U.S. companies, solar infrastructure that originates from the U.S. to assist developing nations can potentially contribute to economic growth and sustainability in other ways. As part of the World Bank’s commitment, recipient nations that achieve affordable, reliable and modern energy services, including alternative energy sources to achieve that objective, could provide a catalyst that improves the living and working conditions for all of humanity. The most vulnerable demographics, particularly those most affected in developing countries without access to modern energy sources, will be most served by transitioning to a net-zero-emissions energy system. Therefore, a sustainable energy grid substantiated by U.S. solar could provide these benefits. In doing so, sustainable communities could create stability across the continent to empower communities and foster entrepreneurship. The U.S. would have a crucial role in building upon its geopolitical status if it were to commit itself to these arrangements.

By embracing the symbiotic framework between the U.S. and its private sector with the opportunities offered by the developing world, U.S. solar could become the forefront of sustainable growth, leading to the global prosperity many of the world’s poor need.

– Arman Ahmed
Photo: Wikimedia

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Craftsmanship Meets Community to Tackle Poverty in Namibia

Poverty in NamibiaSince 1992, Penduka has worked in a range of ways to tackle poverty in Namibia. Started by Dutch occupational therapist Christien Roos and five other women, Penduka now plays a pivotal role in Namibia by empowering women through their craftsmanship and supporting communities with the hospitality industry.

The British Council reports that millions of new jobs and billions of dollars in profits are created by social enterprises each year. Penduka aims to empower vulnerable populations in Namibia, both economically and socially, with increased access to the labor market. It primarily seeks to alleviate poverty by selling handicrafts made by female Namibian artists.

Poverty in Namibia

According to the Namibia Multidimensional Poverty Index Report of 2021, approximately 43.3% of Namibia’s population live in multidimensional poverty. Unlike the traditional monetary poverty rates, multidimensional poverty refers to the demographic and social status of people. According to Auditor General Junias Kandjeke, 44% of Namibian households headed by women are impoverished, primarily due to gender inequality caused by unequal distribution of resources and limited educational opportunities.

Poverty rates have decreased since 1990, when Namibia gained independence from South Africa, but fundamental challenges such as economic gender inequality and high levels of unemployment remain — factors exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2022, the CIA Factbook estimated that approximately 50% of Namibians are unemployed. 

In 2012, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Magdalena Sepúlveda, stressed that despite the existing legal support for Namibian women, they still are economically and socially vulnerable. Gender-based violence and limited access to employment for women contribute to the issue of gendered poverty in the country. 

Empowering Women Through Craftsmanship

Local craftsmanship is one of the most important sources of income in developing economies. Globally, the artisan sector is worth more than $32 billion a year, serving as the second-largest employer in developing countries. Penduka offers the women of Namibia opportunities to gain experience in embroidery, sewing, jewelry making and pottery through workshops and training sessions. This empowers the women to join existing companies or create their own, selling locally and globally. Penduka offers continual professional development and support to these women, encouraging peer learning to strengthen community. 

Supporting Communities Through Business

In addition to the manufacturing of handicrafts, Penduka’s philanthropic project includes the retail and hospitality sectors. Namibia is known for its captivating landscape distinguished by the Namib Desert and the Central Plateau. To capitalize on this tourism draw, the organization trains women in inventory management, customer service, food service and general hospitality. Penduka operates a retreat center, campground and tour company, managed and staffed by Namibian women. These efforts ultimately aim to build a sustainable economy in which Namibian women can gain financial independence through equitable employment in a variety of industries.

Looking Forward

To offer continuous support for Namibia’s women in underserved communities, Penduka is breaking the cycle of unemployment and poverty. Over the past 30 years, it has encouraged resilient, sustainable development for social, political and financial gender parity. Penduka now operates in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, the US and South Korea, employing the same social enterprise model that has flourished in Namibia. Currently, the work of Penduka looks set to keep translating this vision into reality for the social and economic well-being of Namibian women.

– Grace Mun
Photo: Unsplash

How Does Higher Education Affect Poverty in Malaysia?

Higher Education in MalaysiaLocated in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is one of the founding partners of the ASEAN trade bloc, with a population of 34 million. The island nation is a developing economic power within the region, with an expected steady 3.9% economic growth rate as of the first three quarters of 2023. The commonwealth country now has one of the most diverse population demographics in the world. However, access to higher education in Malaysia is a limiting factor for further economic development and significantly affects upward mobility. Education is key to lowering poverty rates.

As a low to middle-income country, Malaysia has seen an increase in poverty rates, growing from 5.6% in 2019 to 6.2% in 2022. This increase can be credited to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increase in global unemployment and a prominent decrease in international trade. New research papers from UNESCO display how global poverty rates would be reduced if all adults completed secondary education. Education allows the underprivileged to obtain higher-paying jobs, allowing many to break the poverty cycle. The following are key facts about higher education in Malaysia and how it may affect the poverty rates in the country.

Talent Drain & Race Based Admission in Malaysia

In the past two decades, Malaysia has experienced a significant talent drain, and this trend is often attributed to the racial quota system in the country’s public university admissions. This policy has led to the rejection of high-achieving students from Malaysia’s pre-university programs, even as some of them secure places in prestigious international universities like Harvard and UCLA. Consequently, many Malaysians choose to pursue higher education abroad, resulting in a brain drain that can negatively impact the country.

The exodus of talent has the potential to reduce Malaysia’s attractiveness to foreign direct investments (FDIs), as a skilled workforce is a crucial factor for foreign companies when deciding where to invest. This, in turn, could limit the creation of job opportunities within the country, making it more challenging for individuals to escape poverty in Malaysia.

The race-based admission restricts many locals’ access to higher education, with a racial quota for 90% of places to be reserved for Malays. This quota is disproportionate to the country’s demography. It is divided into three main groups: 62% Malays, 21% Chinese and 6% Indian as of 2015. As a result, many cannot access public universities, which affects their ability to achieve social mobility and lift themselves out of poverty in Malaysia.

Lack of Maturity in the Higher Education System in Malaysia

The Malaysian education system is still relatively new compared to other education systems, such as the U.K. and the U.S.. The Malaysian education system has seen significant change throughout the past century due to colonialism, shaped to promote their colonial goals by implementing British and Japanese ideals and culture. Due to the history of change, the new education system in Malaysia still lacks maturity and experience, which may harm the hireability of Malaysia’s domestic university students, affecting their ability to obtain higher-paying jobs and thus making them unable to alleviate poverty in Malaysia.

Affordability & Inequality in Higher Education System in Malaysia

There has been a notable increase in the number of undergraduate students discontinuing their studies at Malaysian universities for various reasons, with a significant proportion citing financial challenges, including high tuition fees and costly accommodation. This emerging pattern exacerbates existing societal inequalities in Malaysia by impeding social mobility due to the reduced affordability of higher education. Consequently, this trend hampers their educational attainment and career prospects, thereby limiting their ability to escape poverty in the country.

Looking Ahead

There has been an increase in effort to limit the talent drain away from Malaysia, with more grants given to fully sponsor talented students in their domestic and overseas studies while guaranteeing that they will work in Malaysia after graduation. This policy also contributes to the government’s plan to improve the affordability of higher education. Furthermore, there have been significant efforts to get rid of race-based admission within Malaysia’s education system, with increased commentary about moving away from reserving 90% of places in pre-university programs for Malays. This change could decrease poverty in Malaysia as access to higher education increases for ethnic minorities.

While it is evident that there is a lack of maturity within the Malaysian education system, the government has established the “Malaysian Higher Education Blueprint,” which is due for completion in 2025. This program is part of their aspiration to rank the Malaysian education system among the highest quality. The blueprint consists of 10 planned changes that will be executed to improve outcomes for graduates through schemes such as partnerships with firms through internships to improve the hireability of domestic graduates. This plan can potentially lower poverty rates in Malaysia in the long run by increasing job opportunities within the country.

– Matthew Fung
Photo: Flickr

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Exploring Books on Poverty in India

Books on poverty in IndiaIn India, a country of about 1.4 billion people, poverty remains an enduring and multifaceted challenge. The complexities associated with poverty and its intersectionality have been vividly documented and explored over the years through the lens of literature. By immersing the reader into the world of poverty and presenting its challenges firsthand, books on poverty provide a comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted nature while concurrently fostering awareness. 

Books possess the ability to confront the prejudices surrounding poverty by humanizing the experiences of the economically disadvantaged in a nation. They serve as catalyzing agents, inspiring action for poverty alleviation. Fundamentally, books facilitate the initiation of discussions on the theme and reality of poverty, engaging not only academics and policymakers but also the general public. 

Everybody Loves a Good Drought

“Everybody Loves a Good Drought” serves as a wake-up call, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the harsh realities marginalized communities face. The book title, dripping with bitter irony, reflects Palagummi Sainat’s visceral response to the deplorable conditions witnessed during his reporting tenure for the Times of India between 1993 and 1995. This is where the heart of the narrative lies, exposing the intricate web of poverty, exploitation and resilience in some of India’s most destitute villages. The book uncovers a hidden division of labor, shedding light on occupations and practices that remain obscured even to many within India.

People Without History: India’s Muslim Ghettos

In the fabric of India’s diverse landscape, narratives of resilience and adversity often remain untold. “People Without History: India’s Muslim Ghettos,” authored by Jeremy Seabrook and Imran Ahmed Siddiqui, is one such book that unveils the intricate lives of individuals residing in the impoverished suburbs of Kolkata. This book sheds light on the challenges faced by these communities, predominantly comprising Muslims and their remarkable endeavors to carve out a livelihood amid dire circumstances. What sets this account apart is its portrayal of uncelebrated triumphs and unacknowledged tragedies that coexist within these neglected districts.

Behind the Beautiful Forevers

Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter, National Magazine Award recipient for Feature Writing and MacArthur Fellow Katherine Boo’s compelling work, “Behind the Beautiful Forevers,” transcends the boundaries of traditional nonfiction and immerses the readers into the gritty realities of poverty within the slums of Mumbai, India. This book attempts to capture the essence of life in Annawadi, a small enclave inhabited by around 3,000 people, situated amid the opulence of the Mumbai International Airport and luxury hotels.

The book unfolds over a meticulous three-year study, focusing on the lives of two families. Remarkably, Boo’s storytelling places women and children at the forefront, acknowledging their pivotal roles and amplifying their voices as the most faithful and reliable sources of information. Her deliberate choice to focus on children as narrators, devoid of the adult biases of religion, caste or politics, adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. Thus, “Behind the Beautiful Forevers” compels readers to confront uncomfortable truths about societal disparities.

Conclusion

Literature serves as a powerful medium for illuminating the often unseen and ignored aspects of society and paints vivid portraits of individuals and communities living in poverty. These books do the same, allowing the reader to access an entire reality different from their own to understand the different identities existing within India and the world.

– Manasvi Kadian
Photo: Flickr

How Ultra-White Paint Is Cooling Rising Temperatures in India

Rising TemperaturesAccording to a study by The Lancet, rising temperatures and increasingly frequent heat waves have increased heat-related deaths in India by 55% from 2004 to 2021. Those most at risk are impoverished and lower caste, without easy access to water to cool their homes and keep themselves hydrated.

The Impact of Rising Temperatures on Lower-Caste Women

For much of India, fetching water is traditionally a woman’s role. As such millions of lower caste women are made to fetch hours up to 10 times a day in extreme heat, making them ‘doubly susceptible’. This hard labor is necessary for helping their families and themselves survive extreme temperatures. These trips are made especially difficult by some upper caste communities who cut off the lower caste’s water supply, believing that Dalit and Adivasi people, who are of the lowest caste, will pollute the water by touching it. This prejudice forces Dalit women and girls to go further for water, causing potential health issues and girls to miss school.

Unaffordable and Inaccessible Water

Water is difficult to access for millions of families across India and is often unaffordable. In some communities, Dalits are charged $9 monthly to access mechanized wells. According to Oxford University Press, the average Dalit household income is between $240 and $270 annually. Therefore, water access eats up a large portion of lower caste household’s income and is completely unaffordable for many. Due to water being difficult to access and often unaffordable, many ration their daily intake, bearing the effects of dehydration like “dizziness and exhaustion.”

Caste System and Disaster Relief

India’s Heat Action Plans, which aim to reduce heath-related death and health complications, have been found by the Centre for Policy Research to be unequally implemented in lower caste communities. Unequal implementation of relief is a common experience for India’s impoverished. Caste often determines what treatment you will receive during natural disasters. During floods and cyclones, Dalit and Adivasi people are often refused shelter by temples and relief shelters due to their caste. Lower castes are also disadvantaged as their communities are often in geographically vulnerable positions, in poorly built homes that are difficult to access due to the lack of paved streets.

The Ultra-White Paint and Rising Temperatures

While increased heat in India is dire for many lower caste households, a few low-cost high-impact solutions exist. Painting lower caste homes Ultra-White is one of these solutions. The program, started by the Mahila Housing Trust aids in reducing the effects of extreme heat in India. The Mahila Housing Trust provides hundreds of impoverished families across India with cans of Ultra-White paint, which, when applied to roofs, can cool the interior by up to 8°C. In doing so, the Ultra-White paint reduces the likelihood of heat-related health complications. As many lower caste households live in brick homes with poor ventilation, the heat accumulated by these structures during the day makes them unbearable, with many resorting to sleeping outside. 

Looking Ahead

With the addition of Ultra-White paint, however, indoor temperatures are much more bearable allowing people to spend more time indoors, protected from extreme heat. Likewise, lower indoor temperatures mean that households require less water to cool their homes and stay hydrated, reducing the need to fetch water as frequently. While Ultra-White paint is not a perfect solution and needs to be reapplied annually or biannually, it is the cheapest and most effective aid found by the Mahila Housing Trust, which is committed to remedying the effects of extreme heat on lower-income households. Through aid and innovation, there is hope that India’s most vulnerable can be better protected from extreme weather conditions and alleviate their dire impacts on their lives.

– Jaydin Ruch
Photo: Flickr

Social Programs Help Panama

social programs help PanamaPanama, a country found in Central America, is located south of the Caribbean Sea, with its neighboring nations being Costa Rica and Colombia. The Panama Canal allowed the nation to prosper through economic growth from its logistical hub. This hub is a trade and financial center, with the World Bank projecting Panama’s GDP growth rates to be around 6.40% for 2024 and 6.50% for 2025.

Despite the economic growth projections, Panama suffers, like other nations, from disproportionate income distribution. This income inequality affects rural indigenous groups as well as Afro-Panamanian populations, with estimates showing that less than 15% live outside of poverty. The Ministerio de Desarrollo Social (Ministry of Social Development) assists low-income families and poor people with disabilities through financial and mental health services. These social programs help Panama receive much-needed aid for greater income equality between its socioeconomic groups.

USAID Partners With Panama to Tackle Poverty

From the mid-60s through 1982, Panama collaborated with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to enhance the well-being of its citizens. Through initiatives focused on agricultural diversification and research, numerous families experienced a rise in income. Simultaneously, public infrastructure projects, including the development of streets, roads and water and sewage systems, were implemented, contributing to a reduction in deforestation. These changes ensure that future generations will prosper through Panama’s natural resources.

USAID assistance continued through three legacy institutions, hoping to sustain Panama’s natural resources. Of these, two have demonstrated notable success. For instance, the Chagres National Park Fund actively funds the management of the Chagres River Basin. This basin plays a critical role in supplying the necessary water required for the operation of the Panama Canal, accounting for 45% of its operational needs and approximately 80% of the water is utilized for human consumption in Panama City, home to around 1.5 million residents. The second successful initiative, the Darien National Park Fund, is dedicated to protecting the 1.4 million acres that struggled under deforestation. These social programs help Panama establish opportunities for its citizens to flourish and learn to operate with minimal external assistance.

Red de Oportunidades Provide Economic Support to Poor Households

Red de Oportunidades, aptly named Network of Opportunities, seeks to dismantle the cyclical nature of extreme intragenerational poverty in Panama. This initiative is directed towards mothers in extreme poverty with children between the ages of 0 to 18. These households will receive around 50 Panamanian Balboa per month so long as they fall under these conditions.

Guardian Angel Programme Helps Panamanians With Disabilities

In addition to assisting low-income households, the Guardian Angel Programme established an economic allowance for those with severe disabilities. Not only money transfers but the program will require participants to attend “lectures, courses and seminars for psychological and medical orientation and accession to the education system in the case of minors.” By providing these resources, social programs help Panama provide sessions to help integrate severely disabled people into their society to live healthy and balanced lives.

Conclusion

The synergy between USAID programs and Panama’s Ministry of Social Development has substantially addressed the immediate needs, leaving little room for massive overhauls. What is essentially needed now is tuning and improving the current programs. This is to ensure the indigenous people of Panama continue to receive the necessary resources to become economically stable and learn to be effective citizens of Panama.

– Luis Lujano-Garcia
Photo: Unsplash