Archive for category: Global Poverty

Key articles and information on global poverty.

Period Poverty in Barbados

Period Poverty in BarbadosMost girls begin menstruating at the age of 12, however, it is also common for a girl’s first cycle to happen as early as 10 years old or as late as 15 years old. Afterward, young girls and women can anticipate having a period for about 40 years of their life. For these 40 years, all women must have access to feminine hygiene products such as pads or tampons to ensure their health is not at risk. Despite this, as many as 500 million women do not have access to essential feminine hygiene products or sanitary facilities. These women often also lack hygienic bathroom facilities to use during their cycles and have to deal with any cultural or societal stigmas that treat their periods as impure or unclean. Period poverty occurs globally and Caribbean countries such as Barbados are no exception.

Period Poverty After COVID-19

According to a 2020 UNICEF report, about 21% of women in Barbados live in poverty, while specific groups of women, such as single mothers or women with disabilities, “continue to be disadvantaged.” These facts make it clear that many girls and women are facing poverty in Barbados and, consequently, period poverty.

According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), short and long-distance travel restrictions during COVID-19, along with the shutdown of multiple health centers, still affect reproductive and sexual health services for Latin American and Caribbean countries. This has resulted in a continued lack of care available to women suffering from conditions like endometriosis, as well as restricted access to female hygiene products such as pads and tampons.

Katrina Endometriosis Fund Association (KEFA)

Katrina Endometriosis Fund Association (KEFA), founded in 2016, has made addressing and preventing period poverty in Barbados one of its top priorities. The association began hosting the Endo Drive in 2018, which collects feminine hygiene products and distributes them to young girls and women, according to Loop Barbados News. This drive benefits hundreds of women on the island and the number of women reaching out to the organization for assistance has grown tremendously.

According to the founder, Katrina Alleyne, 2022 alone was full of successes for the Endometriosis and Women’s Health Association. The association broadened its reach to ensure that as many women and girls received sanitary napkins and other care packages as possible. KEFA intends to broaden the reach of its services even further this year while fully launching its BodyTalk project within schools. The BodyTalk project will educate many young girls in Barbados on what to expect during puberty and menstruation, Loop Barbados News reports.

The Lady Box Project

The Lady Box Project is another nonprofit organization based in Barbados that aims to aid women suffering from period poverty. The organization’s Instagram page describes it simply as a group of friends on a mission to end period poverty. The Lady Box Project is pursuing this goal by collecting donations of feminine hygiene products and assorting them into boxes before distributing them to vulnerable girls and women. The boxes are packed generously with pads, tampons, soaps and even menstrual cups before reaching thousands of Barbados women.

During its first year of operation in 2021, The Lady Box Project distributed more than 16,000 packs of sanitary napkins. It continues to support young girls and women by issuing boxes to those receiving services through organizations such as the Barbados Alliance to End Homelessness, the Barbados Family Planning Association, the Barbados Shelter for Abused Women, and many more.

Continuing to Fight Period Poverty

Period poverty is still affecting many girls and women in Barbados. Organizations such as Katrina’s Endometriosis Fund Association and The Lady Box Project are working hard to combat this issue and their efforts are ensuring that more women have access to essential feminine hygiene care products.

– Kimber Peters
Photo: Flickr

New Opportunities: 10 Key Facts About Poverty in Chad

Facts About Poverty in Chad
With an estimated 200 ethnic groups who speak about 100 languages living within its borders, the central African nation of Chad is one of the most diverse countries in the world. The nation is also one of the theorized places of origin of humankind, an idea substantiated by a ~7 million year old humanoid skull discovered within Chad‘s borders.

Throughout its history, Chad has been a central part of some of Africa’s greatest empires, a French colony and an independent state marred by internal and external conflict. Chad is an incredibly complex nation with many factors that contribute to poverty and instability. Here are 10 of the major facts about poverty in Chad that will hopefully demonstrate how the country could benefit from foreign aid.

10 Key Facts About Poverty in Chad

  1. After gaining independence from France in 1960, Chad fought in a civil war for almost 24 years. France, Libya, the Arab-leaning northern regions and the African-leaning southern regions of Chad were just a few of the major parties involved in this conflict.
  2. Lake Chad is an expansive freshwater source that provides for millions of people living in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, Niger and Nigeria. The lake is central to food and water supplies, land support and nutrient recycling, regulatory groundwater replenishment, carbon sequestration and air purification. Over the past 45 years, Lake Chad has lost 90% of its volume and surface area.
  3. Diminishing rainfall, water pollution due to increasing oil exploitation and commercial rice and cotton farming and the absence of government environmental regulatory programs all contribute factors to the destruction of the Lake Chad Basin. With 80% of Chad’s working population employed in the agriculture industry, the disappearance of the lake significantly contributes to the country’s poverty levels.
  4. Even though it is among the world’s poorest nations, Chad provided refuge to 1.3 million forcibly displaced persons as of September 30, 2023.
  5. The presence of Boko Haram in Chad has periodically closed the border to Nigeria, a main outlet for trade, and slowed economic growth in the lake region. The instability created by Boko Haram’s terrorism further exacerbated long-standing tensions between ethnic communities and the civil conflict in Chad.
  6. Reports for 2017 illustrated that 28% of Chad’s population struggles with food insecurity. That is approximately 4 million people — 98% of whom live in the Sahelian belt that stretches across West Africa from Senegal to Chad. In fact, malnutrition rates are above emergency levels for children between the ages of five and nine in the Sahel region of Chad.
  7. To help improve food security and reduce instances of malnutrition in the Sahel region of the Lake Chad Basin, the World Food Programme has supported 1.4 million of the region’s most vulnerable. The group accomplishes such an admirable feat by providing cash-based transfers that can be used to purchase food at local markets and improve the regional economy.
  8. In 2011, the richest 20% of Chadians accounted for about 48% of total consumption expenditures, while the poorest 20% of Chadians accounted for only 5%. The increase in these wealth disparities can be attributed to the growth in the oil industry, as the increase mainly benefited oil-related investment in urban capital; meanwhile, the rural industry of cotton production went into decline.
  9. The poverty gap index, a measure of how much the average income of impoverished people falls below the poverty line, shows huge discrepancies between urban and rural areas in Chad. Rural areas have a 22.6 poverty index gap, while urban areas stand at 6.6. Rural poverty is more severe due to low levels of education, large numbers of children per household and climate change’s direct effect on income and employment. Overall, the incidence of monetary poverty was twice as high in rural areas than it was in urban centers in 2011.
  10. As of 2023, 42.3% of the Chadian population lives below the national poverty line.

Hope for Continued Effort

Poverty in Chad has improved incrementally over the last 50 years, but there is much progress to be made especially when compared to many other developing areas. These 10 facts about poverty in Chad show an incredible opportunity for foreign aid to improve infrastructure and stability.

– Carolina Sherwood Bigelow
Photo: Flickr
Updated on: February 29, 2024

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Music Organizations Empowering Disadvantaged Children in India

Disadvantaged Children in IndiaAnyone who listens to bands, plays an instrument or composes songs will know that music is more than a hobby. It can reduce stress and anxiety, increase auditory perception and even increase chances of good sleep. The positive effects of music on development have gained traction in research circles over the past 50 years, with studies showing that its practice can instill feelings of leadership, responsibility and empathy in children. A program named El Sistema, which was rolled out in the ’70s, demonstrated that music could completely alter the paths of disadvantaged children, removing them from the path of risk and causing self-esteem to boom. It will come as no surprise, then, that music is a powerful tool in uplifting those in poverty. In India, where nearly 170 million people live below the poverty line, four Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) are demonstrating how music empowers disadvantaged children, working to bring creativity, confidence and opportunity into their lives.

Inspire India

Inspire India is a subsidiary of the larger Shankar Mahadevan Academy Initiative, an organization operating in 60 schools worldwide. The initiative’s hopeful mission is to inspire, uplift and even “design moments of extreme joy” for the children they reach. A more accurate description would be designing moments of joy for all who encounter them, supporters and beneficiaries alike.

The smaller branch of Inspire India is no different. Founded on the ambition to foster musical ability and passion among children from vulnerable families, the organization currently operates centers in Delhi and Mumbai, with plans to open thousands more nationwide. Their programs play a crucial role in revitalizing neglected creativity by nurturing the talents of the children they engage with, providing them with the space to flourish. Through these initiatives, Inspire India fosters confidence and resilience in the participating children, empowering them to confront life’s challenges with strength and determination.

Child’s Play

Founded by Dr. Luis Dias in 2009, Child’s Play India has a clear goal: to “install positive values and provide social empowerment to India’s disadvantaged children.” Its method of choice to get there is a little more unexpected. The organization aims to reach its goal “through the teaching of classical music to the highest possible standard.”

Dias’s inspiration came from one fateful night at the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) proms when two unusual orchestras from Venezuela and South Africa took the stage. Having spent his last year wondering why India, with such a big population, was falling behind smaller countries in its musical standard, the appearance of these groups was a lightbulb moment for one simple reason: they were entirely made up of disadvantaged children.

Consequently, Dias formed the concept of Child’s Play. He began to teach classical music to disadvantaged and street children in Goa, believing that the music would, in turn, allow them to develop discipline and self-esteem. By allowing them to lean into their creativity and believe in their excellence, the organization has provided more than 500 children with a newfound confidence and the promise of a future career.

Anahad

Registered as an NGO in 2013, Anahad is a studio and a community of musicians. Anahad, on a mission to uplift underprivileged communities, harnesses available production technology to preserve traditional folk music and empower the musicians who create it. An interesting example is the story of Dapu Khan, one of its musicians, whose collaboration with the organization has directly resulted in a substantial increase in income.

Khan, passionate about education but denied the chance himself, spent what little money he had on his children’s learning. When he met with the Anahad group, he explained his belief that Rajasthani folk music could touch the souls of its listeners, advocating for a broader platform to reach more souls. Anahad provided Khan with his first chance to work independently, without a third party or manager. The NGO equipped him with digital platform skills, assisted in setting up a website and facilitated the recording of two of his songs. The launch yielded a remarkable effect, leading to Khan securing wedding contracts, performances in Germany and the U.S. and a viral YouTube video that attracted collaboration offers from celebrities.

Manzil Mystics

Manzil Mystics was initiated by six musicians who themselves struggled with challenging upbringings. The organization operates through three primary branches: education, employing music for Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) in schools; gender, raising awareness about women’s health and rights; and livelihood, establishing a career pathway for aspiring musicians and structured support to help them achieve their goals.

Manzil Mystics runs various programs across India, each illustrating how music serves as an empowering force for underprivileged youth. One such initiative is the Performing Arts and Kids Happiness (PANKH) program, which involves visiting schools and teaching children how to write and sing songs. The sessions are fun and designed to build confidence and unleash children’s curiosity.

Learning music through programs like PANKH not only imparts musical skills but also aids children in developing cognitive and socio-emotional skills. It actively engages them in the learning process and enhances their empathy. PANKH goes beyond a singular focus, serving as more than just a music education initiative. In addition to teaching music, it provides safe spaces for children and young adults to discuss topics such as reproductive health, gender and other social issues. Furthermore, PANKH offers English language instruction and helps students acquire digital technology skills that will be valuable for their future careers.

– Peggy Hughes
Photo: Flickr

Poverty Levels and Remittances in South Korea

Remittances in South KoreaEconomic growth and globalization have transformed South Korea, symbolized by its thriving urban centers and technological advancements. While the country continues to make impressive strides in economic progress, a new concern has emerged – the intricate relationship between remittances in South Korea and poverty levels. As the nation undergoes unprecedented development, the dynamics of remittance flows have become a focal point for researchers and economists seeking to unravel their far-reaching implications on the well-being of the South Korean population.

Poverty as a Result of Remittance Fund Disparity

Despite the transaction value of $4.9 billion projected in South Korea’s Digital Remittances market in 2024 — typically coming from developed countries — the distribution of these funds raises concerns about economic disparities and potential implications for poverty. Though the market is anticipated to expand, the average transaction value per user is estimated at $320,440, suggesting a concentration of larger remittances among a certain segment of the population. With a total of 176,400 users expected by 2027, there is a risk that a significant portion of South Korea’s population might not benefit from these remittance transactions.

According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), South Korea has the fourth-highest wealth disparity out of 38 developing global economies measured. OECD reports that in 2018-2019, the relative poverty rate in South Korea reached 16.7%, meaning one in six South Koreans lives on less than half the median income for the country. A large portion of those living in poverty are over the age of 65 and thus unable to find adequate employment. Many have little to no savings and reside in rural areas.

Unequal Distribution Among Population Centers

Disparities in accessibility and distribution of remittances means that certain regions benefit more readily than others, amplifying existing inequalities. Urban centers often become primary recipients, leaving rural and less affluent areas with fewer resources to combat poverty. This geographical imbalance underscores the importance of investigating not only the overall impact of remittances but also their specific regional implications.

The symbiotic relationship between economic progress, remittances and poverty levels requires a comprehensive and empathetic approach. As the economic landscape evolves, policymakers, economists and communities must collaboratively address the multifaceted nature of poverty. By acknowledging the interplay between urban prosperity and rural challenges, South Korea can craft targeted strategies that uplift the entire nation, ensuring that the benefits of economic success are shared equitably among all citizens.

Challenges of Unequal Access to Remittance Funds

The challenge of unequal distribution of remittances in South Korea is not solely geographic but also demographic. Certain demographic groups, such as migrant workers and marginalized communities, may face barriers to accessing the benefits of remittances in South Korea. 

Discrimination, lack of financial infrastructure and limited awareness of available support mechanisms can impede the equitable distribution of remittance funds, perpetuating social and economic disparities. While the research around reducing remittances disparity has yet to produce a solution, several non-government organizations (NGOs) are dedicated to addressing the issue in South Korea.

ChildFund Korea started in 1948 as a prominent international NGO. It has been instrumental in addressing the challenges of poverty in South Korea, particularly those stemming from the uneven distribution of remittances. Through its multiple regional headquarters, community welfare centers, foster care centers, child protection agencies and Hansarang Welfare Institutes for the Disabled, ChildFund Korea provides sustainable financial, physical and emotional support to help vulnerable children and families. The organization’s commitment to child protection and rights is widely recognized both within the Republic of Korea and internationally.

The Korea Trust Fund (KTF), in partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG), committed $15 million over three years to address fragility, conflict and violence (FCV), particularly in Asia and the Pacific. Established in 2009 with a primary emphasis on investment lending, the KTF facilitates project preparation and implementation support in key development sectors through catalytic grant projects. Additionally, the fund promotes innovative engagements for development in FCV by strengthening knowledge exchanges, cutting-edge analytics and capacity building, including partnerships with non-traditional actors like tech companies, in an effort to increase the distribution of remittances in South Korea.

Conclusion

As South Korea continues its journey toward economic prosperity, the impact of remittances on poverty levels is imperative to track. By acknowledging the challenges posed by unequal access and incorporating remittance considerations into planning, the nation can strive for a more equitable distribution of resources and a reduction in poverty levels for the well-being of its citizens.

Collaboration between government entities, financial institutions and non-profit organizations is paramount in creating a comprehensive strategy that not only recognizes the pivotal role of remittances in alleviating poverty but actively works toward fostering inclusive economic development.

– Mahima Bhat
Photo: Unsplash

Global Poverty Investment: Top 10 Benefits for U.S. Companies

Global Poverty InvestmentIt is crucial to recognize the significant impact that global poverty reduction can have on the United States (U.S.) and its thriving economy, particularly for companies operating on a global scale. By proactively investing in poverty reduction efforts worldwide, companies can unlock a multitude of benefits that not only contribute to their long-term success but also drive local and national economic growth. In this article, we will explore the various advantages that companies can derive from these poverty reduction initiatives, underscoring the mutually beneficial relationship between poverty alleviation and sustainable business development.

Skilled Workforce Development 

Mostly confined to the world’s poorest countries, close to 600 million people will be looking for jobs. As global poverty initiatives build more stable nations, companies can broaden their horizons and expand their markets. With multinational U.S. companies establishing themselves in developing nations, these companies can easily find employment, which contributes to skilled workforce development. Consequently, a domino effect emerges with individuals from developing nations building on their professional skills and companies expanding their abilities to cater to customer needs through an expanded workforce.

Benevolent Corporate Image 

Through management quality, strong public relations teams and branding during commemorative dates, corporations always seek to develop their corporate image and avoid scandal. In doing so, they aspire to receive as much profit as possible based on its reputation and operations. Corporations can develop their image into one of benevolence through global poverty investment. In doing so, their corporate social responsibility is enhanced, and a positive public image is fostered, resulting in increased customer loyalty as consumers increasingly prioritize socially responsible businesses.

Continued Economic Growth 

The economy of developing nations can transition from being entirely dependent on receiving aid toward building its economy through the presence of U.S. companies. As companies diversify their market access and operate in different cultural and economic landscapes, they gain valuable influence to cater their products to diverse consumer needs. In doing so, U.S. companies can build their reputation and influence around helping overseas economies, resulting in new and profitable market ventures.

Diverse Market Access 

With global poverty investment diversifying market access for several U.S. companies, their horizons and market potential are broadened. In doing so, corporations can receive higher profits from new, stable U.S. trading partners. Additionally, the local and nationwide economy can enhance itself, promoting a more transformative geopolitical status for the United States to achieve in global trade. A stronger United States means a more considerable presence for U.S. companies abroad.

Improved Supply Chains

Aid can mitigate geopolitical tensions and promote stability. As a result, U.S. companies can expand their markets with new trade partners for the United States, expanding on new supply chain routes. Such benefits can boost a U.S. company’s revenue and mitigate supply chain shortages, especially in a pandemic economy.

Diversification of Business Strategy 

As U.S. companies develop circumstantial, new strategies in collaboration with local communities in developing countries, management can create new insights into community cooperation and interaction. From this, U.S. companies can adapt and utilize what has been learned all across the board to promote innovative business practices. U.S. companies that invest in overseas projects can outmaneuver their competition if practical strategies emerge.

Encouragement of Public-Private Partnerships 

Private corporations have immense opportunities to develop lasting partnerships with public firms, governments and non-governmental organizations. These partnerships can expand on other benefits listed in this article and amplify impact. In doing so, sustainable, large-scale initiatives like IBM’s partnership with the United Nations develop. Through its partnership, IBM complements the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of objectives the UN is renowned for hoping to fulfill. IBM will utilize its technological and innovation capabilities to develop solutions that directly contribute towards the UN’s success in these SDGs. For example, artificial intelligence and cloud computing will be integral in global development and sustainability, as shown by the resulting environmental sustainability that has emerged from IBM’s cooperation.

Access to Raw Materials and Resources 

Through partnerships with developing nations, raw materials and resources previously inaccessible could be relatively more accessible through U.S. corporate investment. Corporations can profit from investments in these business partnerships with developing countries. Consequently, operational efficiency, production cost reduction and a stable supply chain can enhance the global economy. For example, Tesla has acquired natural resources for developing sustainable, alternative energy sources that have previously been rendered inaccessible due to ill-equipped and unavailable technology.

Innovation and Technology Transfers

International investments can facilitate innovation and technology transfer between U.S. companies and partnering firms. With exposure to new technological ecosystems, corporations can develop new networks for conducting business. For example, Microsoft uses Sony, Panasonic and Toshiba products for its operating system, Windows. 

Increased Consumer Choices

If nations become more stable and develop their goods and services, they can sell them in American markets, giving American consumers a sizable choice. From smartphones to automobiles, consumers can pressure American companies to drive their innovation in response to the competition, leading to technological advancement, new revenues and multiple customer options. The competition benefits consumers and U.S. technological advancement, positioning the United States as a global industry leader.

The lucrative benefits outlined for U.S. companies resulting from global poverty investment illustrates the transformative power that international poverty aid and social responsibility can offer. Through these initiatives, these companies stand to gain far more than the aforementioned net profit. From fostering skilled workforces and enhancing corporate images to tapping into diverse markets and promoting innovation, the effects of such investments extend across the business world.

– Arman Ahmed
Photo: Flickr

School Feeding Programs in Yemen

School Feeding Programs in YemenReceiving an education is a characteristic of childhood all around the world. But for children suffering from hunger, enjoying all the benefits education can offer may not be possible. While education is vital for integrating into society, the need for food outweighs the need for education. Food falls under the category of physiological needs, the basis of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, making it a number one priority. Once hunger is remedied, children can focus on education. For schoolchildren in Yemen, where 2.2 million children under the age of 5 suffer from malnutrition, a nutritious school lunch can make all the difference. The World Food Program (WFP) in collaboration with Hayel Saeed Anam Group and Tetra Pak is providing school meals to help children reach their full potential.

Why Feeding Programs Matter

School feeding programs positively impact children and their families on multiple levels. The promise of a school lunch increases enrollment and attendance and often results in better cognition and educational achievement. The fresh produce needed from local farmers for these lunches drives demand, increasing the diversity and availability of local produce as well as increasing the income and food security of households. Children also carry the long-term benefits of better health and productivity into adulthood.

The Critical Situation

With one of the highest child malnutrition rates in the world and 17 million people facing food insecurity, Yemen’s situation is dire. Eight years of civil war have exacerbated initial food production challenges and water scarcity. In such unstable conditions, consistently receiving a meal at school keeps children in the classroom and brings them a sense of normality.

While schools in urban areas are better equipped to handle many students, classrooms averaging 40 to 50 children, Yemen’s rural areas suffer from a lack of resources to fix schools often damaged by conflict. Providing school meals in these areas impacts the morale and health of students immensely.

WFP Leads Feeding Efforts

WFP launched its school meals program in Yemen in 2018, with a focus on the first 8,000 days of childhood, according to WFP. Initially serving 110,000 students per month, the program has grown to accommodate 600,000 monthly and expects to grow further in the coming years. The meals provide the necessary nutrients needed to prevent diseases and increase focus in the classroom. They also provide incentives for families to keep their children in school when they otherwise might send them to work to contribute to the family income.

The fortified, shelf-stable biscuits the WFP distributes through school feeding programs in Yemen provide a boost of energy. Locally sourced date bars are also on the menu. Utilizing local produce promotes agricultural development and improves the economy. The economic benefits increase when school meals are provided, as parents can focus on investing in their family’s livelihoods.

HSA Group and Tetra Pak Join Forces to Distribute Fortified Milk

A new partnership is working alongside school feeding programs in Yemen to solve the hunger problem. Yemen’s largest private company, Hayel Saeed Anam (HSA) Group and packaging company Tetra Pak have joined forces to create a school milk initiative. Their initiative will provide fortified milk to 10,000 children in Yemeni schools daily.

Tetra Pak’s aseptic packaging keeps milk fresh for up to 12 months, reducing the impact of distribution delays from transport challenges caused by damaged infrastructure. Meanwhile, HSA Group’s Humanitarian Development Program manages the distribution of the milk to schools in collaboration with UNICEF and the WFP.

Tackling the issue of hunger is daunting, but school feeding programs in Yemen are making progress. The WFP’s country director in Yemen, Stephen Anderson, has heard from many adult Yemenis who have expressed gratitude for the school meal program’s positive impact on their childhoods. “For them, this is something good in their past. They know someone made an investment in them,” says Anderson.

– Isabella Rothe
Photo: Flickr

Period Poverty in the Maldives

Period Poverty in the MaldivesThe Maldives, the smallest country in Asia, has made notable progress in advancing women’s rights throughout recent years. However, sexual and reproductive health remains a heavily uncharted topic in the country due to religious sensitivity and national policy. One significant issue of concern is period poverty in the Maldives. Women not only face economic challenges in affording menstrual products, but they also battle an overarching societal stigma around the topic of periods.

Period Poverty

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, adequate sanitation facilities and education on menstrual health. This issue particularly affects individuals who cannot afford or readily obtain necessary menstrual products, leading to challenges in managing their periods with dignity and comfort. Period poverty affects around 500 million women and girls worldwide. It is not just an economic issue but also encompasses social and cultural barriers, including stigmas and taboos surrounding menstruation.

The Sensitivity of Sexual Health in the Maldives

In the Maldives, strict religious beliefs silence discussions regarding sexual health. The conservative religious landscape has harvested an environment of shame and sensitivity around topics such as non-marital sexual activity, reproductive health and menstruation, resulting in a stigma that prevents open discussions and advancements in these areas. This obstacle has significantly hampered efforts to combat period poverty in the country, depriving women of access to healthcare, education, and hygienic and affordable products.

The capital city of Male primarily houses sexual health services that may offer women an opportunity to seek care and access. With over a thousand islands, nearly 200 of which are inhabited, this poses an extreme challenge of accessibility for people not within reachable distance, especially those living in rural areas. In addition to this, there is a lack of access to menstrual products due to the landscape and barriers to traveling.

The lack of sexual healthcare for women, coupled with a reluctance to address these issues, results in a cycle that harms women and girls across the Maldives. The religious and cultural sensitivity surrounding the topic has created ongoing challenges for women and the issue of period poverty in the Maldives.

As periods are still a taboo subject in the Maldives, there is very little discussion surrounding them, especially in school systems. These problems are at risk of not being addressed throughout the country, specifically within parliament. As of 2021, women occupied only 4.6% of parliamentary seats in the country. This underrepresentation of women in leadership and policy-making positions further imposes a barrier to women’s rights and breaks the stigma around sexual health and menstruation.

Making Efforts

One project has served as a beacon of hope for the country and its citizens amidst the challenges of access that women face in the Maldives. In 2019, Zero Waste Maldives launched the Cupvert initiative to make menstrual health information more widely accessible to women across the country, while also educating them on eco-friendly and sustainable ways to manage their periods. Education and awareness are a large part of the Cupvert initiative, spreading information to break the silence surrounding menstruation and sexual health care. The initiative does this through campaigns, workshops and outreach projects. By educating women on menstrual health, Cupvert wants to empower them to continue the conversation and make informed decisions regarding their menstrual health.

In addition to education and outreach, Cupvert promotes sustainable and eco-friendly menstrual products, which hold a more practical use in the Maldives. Products like reusable cloth pads or menstrual cups are easier to use in an area like the Maldives, where the geographic landscape prevents easy traveling and access to stores or markets.

Since its launch, Culvert has reached more than 45,000 people across the Maldives, according to Zero Waste Maldives. This project has sparked conversations, educated women, challenged societal norms and offered practical solutions to such a large issue. Cupvert goes beyond just spreading awareness, it actively sparks a sense of empowerment and belonging for women across the country, one that they have never experienced before. It has sparked a major progression for women’s health, one that will hopefully serve as a stepping stone toward accessibility and the elimination of period poverty in the Maldives.

Looking Forward

The issue of period poverty in the Maldives is deeply rooted in religious and cultural sensitivity. Despite the challenges posed by a lack of sexual health care accessibility, societal stigma and the underrepresentation of women in leadership, the Cupvert initiative stands out as a beacon of hope. By sparking empowerment and challenging societal norms, Cupvert signifies a crucial step toward breaking the silence surrounding menstruation and eliminating period poverty in the nation. The success of this initiative highlights the potential for positive change and a brighter future ahead for women’s health in the Maldives.

– Katherine Barrows
Photo: Pixabay

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Child Marriage in the Dominican Republic

Child Marriage in the Dominican RepublicFor one day in 2020, 10-year-old Melany of the Dominican Republic stepped into President Luis Abinader’s office as part of Plan International’s youth empowerment campaign, allowing young girls to voice their concerns and desires in influential spaces. Melany chose to advocate for a more robust response to child marriage in the Dominican Republic, an issue that the country is facing at a high level. Child marriage in the Dominican Republic is even legal with parental and judicial permission.

During her time in office, Melany spent hours with the President, advocating and discussing the prioritization of protecting children and in 2021, a year after Melany’s symbolic “presidency,” the Dominican Republic passed Law 1-21, making it illegal for a person under 18 to marry under any circumstance.

History and Effects of Child Marriage

According to the International Justice Mission (IJM), among all Latin American and Caribbean countries, the Dominican Republic has the highest rates of child marriage, defined as “any formal marriage or informal union between a child under the age of 18 and an adult or another child.” According to UNICEF, approximately 36% of women between ages 20 and 24 were first married before turning 18 in the Dominican Republic, compared to 15% in Haiti, 8% in Jamaica and 26% in Cuba.

The consequences of these unions reach from the individual level to the national level and even worldwide, with profound effects on a country’s economy and living standards. In 2017, the World Bank found that individuals married under the age of 18 are more likely to drop out of school, resulting in a shortened education that disqualifies them from job opportunities and reduces their earnings in the labor market.

It also found that being married during childhood is a likely predictor of pregnancy before the age of 18. The addition of supporting a child adds financial demand on top of the already limiting conditions of shortened education and job disqualification, creating a poverty-vulnerable environment.

Advocacy Efforts and Improvements

To combat the financial consequences and causes of child marriage in the Dominican Republic, Crecer Contenta, a program set up in 2012 by Plan International that Melany is also part of, collaborates with 120 communities around the country to set up an extracurricular class.

The class provides financial education to young girls, covering topics such as money management, entrepreneurial pursuits and life skills to help them overcome social issues within their communities. It also educates parents to promote community solidarity against child marriage and emphasizes the widespread benefits of keeping children in school and out of marriage.

According to Plan International, about 540 young girls have felt the impacts of Crecer Contenta. The program recently completed its nine-month program in five Dominican communities, working with 88 girls to develop their financial skills and instill the importance of completing education.

While child marriage is illegal in the Dominican Republic it continues informally. More than three years after her time in office, Melany continues her fight against these informal unions with the support of Crecer Contenta and Plan International by her side.

– Emily Shapiro
Photo: Unsplash

Mental Health in Monaco

Mental Health in Monaco Monaco, a country hosting the world’s second-highest population density, is strategically positioned in Europe along the picturesque Mediterranean Sea, sharing its borders with France. Renowned for its affluence, this principality proudly claims a staggering GDP per capita of $240,862 as of the year 2022, a figure that notably surpasses the economic indicators of many other nations and maintains a 0% poverty rate. Tourism, banking and real estate largely drive Monaco’s highly developed and prosperous economy. The lack of personal income tax in this small principality attracts wealthy individuals and celebrities, making it an attractive residence. Despite its economic prosperity, the state has made limited advancements regarding its policy concerning mental health in Monaco.

A Brief History

The history of mental health in Monaco reflects a gradual evolution from limited government attention and action to a more comprehensive and proactive approach involving multiple parties. Historically, mental health was not central to Monaco’s policy landscape. Despite this, the majority of people pay nothing for mental health services in Monaco because of full insurance, this is the same with psychotropic medicines.

The care and treatment of persons with mental health conditions including psychosis, bipolar disorder and depression is also included in the national health insurance or is reimbursed. As of 2020 the number of total treatment cases of psychosis, both inpatient and outpatient, was a population of 245. According to the Mental Health Atlas 2020, the government’s most recent legal effort to protect mental health dates back to 1981, which indicates a relatively long period with limited legislative emphasis on an essential aspect of health care.

This stasis changed with the introduction of the “Psychological Stability and Wellbeing” mental health plan in 2022. The government of Monaco, before this initiative, last implemented a mental health policy in 2014, according to the Mental Health Atlas 2020. Its lack of activity in this regard demonstrates a significant gap in addressing the evolving challenges of mental health, especially considering the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government’s unveiling of the new plan differed from previous limited approaches, emphasizing a more holistic and forward-looking strategy.

The New Plan

The “Psychological Stability and Wellbeing” mental health plan represents a landmark development, showcasing Monaco’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges comprehensively. Didier Gamerdinger, Monaco’s Minister of Health and Social Affairs, launched the plan in March 2022, according to the Government of Monaco. He presented it as a five-year initiative aimed at providing extensive health, medical and social services to individuals facing mental health challenges throughout their lives. The collaboration between numerous groups in Monaco including the Department of Justice, National Council, Monaco City Hall, Police Department, Department of Education, Youth and Sport, Department of Social Welfare and Social Services, Princess Grace Hospital, Office of Occupational Medicine, health care professionals and various charities, allowed for the creation of this landmark legislation.

This plan introduces a multifaceted approach, consisting of three main components: the promotion of mental health, prevention, and early identification of mental distress and addiction. With 53 actionable points outlined within these components, the plan aims to be a proactive and adaptable strategy to meet the evolving needs of the population of Monaco.

One notable aspect of Monaco’s mental health strategy is its emphasis on children’s health care and the development of expert-patient programs. By prioritizing these areas, the plan aims to empower individuals with chronic conditions, allowing them to take control of their health, improve their quality of life and enhance their understanding and management of their conditions.

In Conclusion

Overall, Monaco’s history with mental health has undergone a transformative shift, from a historical lack of central focus to the implementation of a progressive and comprehensive mental health plan. The recent initiatives reflect a commitment to providing accessible, extensive, and high-quality mental health services, as well as addressing societal challenges such as stigma and social inclusion. The ongoing efforts underscore Monaco’s dedication to fostering a mentally healthy and supportive community for its residents.

– Ani Gonzalez Ward
Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Rights in Eritrea

Women’s Rights in EritreaWomen have played a pivotal role in the building of the Northeastern African country of Eritrea. After a 30-year-long conflict, Eritrea achieved independence from its neighboring country of Ethiopia. During the war, Eritrean women made up one-third of the army. They actively participated in combat, breaking from previous societal patterns of gender inequality and discrimination. The historical work of Eritrean women to the liberation of the nation paved the way for gender inequality awareness and ensuring women’s rights in Eritrea.

Advancing Women’s Rights in Eritrea

In 1979, 14 years before the end of the conflict, the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) began its operations. The organization advocates for civil laws that protect women’s rights in Eritrea. Some other points of action by NUEW include work toward fair access to educational resources and minimizing poverty among Eritrean women. A 2023 UNDP report states that ever since Eritrea became independent, gender equality became a key focus of the Eritrean government.

Eritrean women today hold governmental positions and get empowerment through freedom of land ownership, amongst other gender equality reforms outlined in the country’s constitution. According to a 2020 report by the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), women occupied 22% of the parliament seats. Improved literacy also shows the progress of women’s rights in Eritrea. The literacy rates for girls increased from 54.8% in 2008 to 68.9% in 2018.

However, additional data shows that there is still more work necessary in advancing women’s rights in Eritrea. The World Bank Gender Landscape shows a 14% gap in labor force participation between the genders. It also shows that in the national parliament, men occupy 3.5 seats for every seat that women occupy.

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)

Despite Eritrea’s progress in gender equality as a result of women’s wartime contributions, women’s rights in Eritrea remain at risk.  Traditions and cultural norms prevent the full attainment of gender equality.

The practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) has had a steady decline since the 2007 ban. While this significantly reduced the harmful practice, a UNICEF 2021 report shows that FGM still takes place in some rural areas. In 2010, the prevalence of FGM was as high as 33.2% among girls under 15. In 2016, the percentage decreased to 3.8% among the same population.
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme is working toward the complete eradication of the practice by 2030.

With the Ministry of Health, of Labor and Social Welfare as well as the National Union of Eritrean Women, the program aims for its collaborative approach to work as a primary tool for the eradication of FGM. The engagement of the different institutions helps with the discussion of FGM beyond culture and tradition. They hold community events and open and communal conversations regarding this particular issue.

The program aims to raise awareness of its physical dangers and related health concerns, as well as introduce girls’ and women’s rights into the conversation. The same 2021 UNICEF report shows that 425 community events to discuss FGM took place in 2019 across a multitude of villages in Eritrea.

Human Rights Concern Eritrea (HRCE)

Elizabeth Chyrum founded Human Rights Concern Eritrea (HRCE), a nonprofit organization that highlighted different concerns regarding women’s rights in the country in 2017. The organization reported a continuous violation of women’s rights in the country and, therefore the breach of the U.N. Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). According to HRCE, Eritrean women are at high risk of suffering from sexual abuse practices, stating that the subject is still taboo within parts of the nation.

HRCE’s targeting actions toward helping women in Eritrea include conducting interviews and research to better understand human rights violations against Eritrean women. The nonprofit also issues calls to action for the Eritrean government and aid agencies, advocating for easy access to sanitary products for women, protection of women in detention centers and support for women who are victims of harassment.

The Future

Alongside the work of organizations such as UNICEF and NUEW, the UNDP has proposed the Global UNDP Gender Equality Strategy for the years 2022 to 2025.

This strategy uses the “Six Signature Solutions” for the advancement of women’s rights in Eritrea. Instead of focusing on gender equality alone, the strategy targets other topics of concern, like the environment and governance, according to a 2023 UNDP report. UNDP looks at gender inequality in the environment and assesses that extreme weather, such as droughts, highly affects the livelihood of Eritrean women.

Among other advancements, the “Six Signature Solutions” aims to empower women by improving their access to business ownership. By also targeting governance, the UNDP looks for gender inequality in public institutions and does so by, among other initiatives, designating gender focal points in governmental offices.

Despite the country’s notable advancements, persistent challenges still threaten the full implementation of gender equality in Eritrea. Efforts by its government, alongside national and international organizations, highlight ongoing violations and emphasize the collective commitment that is needed to advance gender equality in the country.

– Paula Pujol-Gibson
Photo: Flickr