Archive for category: Human Rights

Information and stories about human rights.

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Human Rights: Remedying the South African Grant Algorithms

GrantWith an unemployment rate of 33% and more than 25% of its residents living at the extreme poverty level, South Africa maintains the title of “most unequal country in the world.” In the wake of economic turmoil catapulted by the coronavirus pandemic, rural-dwelling South Africans increasingly depend on government-issued social grants for survival.

However, significant programs like the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R370, a grant in which eligible South African citizens and refugees receive a stipend of $21.2 per month, are increasingly administered by grant algorithms that deny qualified recipients grants for basic goods and welfare accommodations.

Inception of the Social Relief of Distress Grant

In a first attempt to remedy this, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) responded to the pandemic’s tumultuous economic conditions by launching an Economic Reconstruction and Recovery plan. The plan included measures to address the social distress caused by the pandemic.

By 2023, social grants served as the primary form of income for working-age South Africans living at the extreme poverty level, individuals who would otherwise collect a maximum of $40 per month in means. The stipend is available to any unemployed South African of working age. However, many eligible residents encounter demographic obstacles that make acquisition nearly impossible.

Barriers To Grant Approval

For one, the platform, which largely benefits inhabitants of rural areas populated by native speakers, is strictly available in English. Applications are only received digitally, requiring impoverished individuals to acquire a device for submission.

To receive the SRD grant, an individual’s maximum income may not exceed 624 ZAR ($35.21), significantly below the food poverty threshold. The SRD grant is administered by a digital grant algorithm that scans bank accounts and flags any indication of income.

The Automated Means Test

This process, known as the Automated Means Test, rejects qualified applicants whose accounts possess erroneous means that may not reflect sustainable income. One such miscontextualization of funds perpetually influences Brenda Mtshali, a widow and tomato vendor who scarcely makes enough to support her six children.

In her case, the grant algorithm disqualified her from benefaction, falsely arguing that her account contained a loan. In addition to this invasion of personal and financial data, the detection software misinterprets miscellaneous funds as “means” that exceed an already underrepresentative poverty threshold.

Since the inception of the Automated Means Test, the number of grant beneficiaries has decreased from 10.9 million to eight million, despite an existing eligibility pool of approximately 17 to 18 million people. In analyzing this disparity, the Institute for Economic Justice (IEJ) identified an exclusion rate of 89.7%. Whereas failures on the Automated Means Test cause millions of rejections, the IEJ concluded that only 24% of cases should be eliminated in ethical circumstances.

Benefits of the Social Relief of Distress Grant

On the contrary, the beneficiaries of the stipend report significant increases in quality of living. “Mind the People,” a short film directed by Mozilla Africa Mradi (and available for streaming on YouTube), dissects the disparate qualification process by collecting testimony from individuals who reside in the rural Mountain View and Eldorado regions of South Africa.

Ntombizodwa, an individual who testifies in Mradi’s film, describes how the SRD grant allows her to live a “much better life,” providing access to toiletries, food and electricity that she previously lacked. Nonetheless, significant improvements in accessibility must be made to improve the efficacy of the program.

Researcher Response to Algorithmic Inequity

According to the IEJ Report, applicants should be permitted to submit documents supporting their petition for a grant and that means tests should be conducted over a longitudinal period to eliminate algorithmic error. To improve accessibility, the report suggests shifting to a hybrid and multilingual application model.

A 2024 document published by the European Union–Agence Française de Développement (EU-AFD) Research Facility on Inequalities proposed a new structure to improve the efficacy and sustainability of the former SRD model. The document recommended that SASSA use self-reported data to assess eligibility, increase grant amounts and establish grant permanence.

Conclusion

Ethical access to social grants in South Africa is not only an issue of socioeconomic disparity, but also a matter of social equity and justice. Whereas recent projects have advanced critical conversation about broken South African grant algorithms, many people remain excluded from the precise benefits that might salvage them from tragedy. 

– Talia Gitlin

Talia is based in Natick, MA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Latet and Aiding Holocaust Survivors in Poverty

Holocaust Survivors in PovertyAs of 2021, more than 2.5 million people in Israel are living in poverty, including 1.4 million adults. In addition, 36.1% of all Israeli households live in poverty and 22.1% of those households lack access to basic human needs, such as food, health care and proper education. This crisis affects not only the working-age population but also many Holocaust survivors who are among those experiencing poverty in Israel.

Efforts by Latet

As of April 2025, more than 220,000 Holocaust survivors worldwide are living below the poverty line and rely on outside aid or pension programs. Holocaust survivors reportedly face much worse living conditions than their fellow citizens of Israel. Lack of awareness regarding their plight leaves these individuals struggling for resources and help. 

Fortunately, one organization committed to protecting and serving Holocaust survivors and elderly Israeli citizens is Latet. Latet is a nonprofit that provides aid to more than 100,000 families and about 1,600 Holocaust survivors living in poverty. Its services include food banks and educational programs for those in need. Latet stated that one out of every three Holocaust survivors lives in poverty and that 30,000 Holocaust survivors in Israel live near the poverty line.

The Jewish United Fund

The Jewish United Fund, based in Chicago, is another organization supporting Holocaust survivors living in poverty. It provides funding and resources to Israel to assist those who need them most. This aid allows Holocaust survivors to meet their day-to-day living expenses, including medical bills. The Jewish United Fund also provides home furnishings for Holocaust survivors, helping improve their well-being and quality of life.

Looking Ahead

Organizations such as Latet and the Jewish United Fund play an important role in supporting vulnerable populations and Holocaust survivors in Israel. Continued funding, support and recognition from the media and public can potentially help these organizations expand their reach and effectiveness. Helping Holocaust survivors acknowledges their resilience and contributes to providing them with greater stability and opportunities. By supporting these initiatives, donors and advocates contribute to efforts aimed at improving the well-being of some of Israel’s most vulnerable citizens.

– John Menechino

John is based in Marietta, GA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Russia

Rule of Law in RussiaThe rule of law is central to any functioning democracy, ensuring the exercise of power within legal limits. However, the rule of law in Russia has become fragile under the leadership of President Vladimir Putin. Since first taking office in 2000, he has consolidated power through the suppression of opposition, constitutional manipulation and influence over the judiciary and legislature, eroding the independence of legal institutions. As legal checks disappear, rising inequality and poverty become characteristic of the Russian state, with the burden falling on those with the least protection. This article explores how Russia’s legal system prioritizes loyalty over justice, reinforcing structural exclusion.

Separation of Powers in Russia

Russia is an authoritarian political system led by President Putin, who has remained among the highest authority ranks since his first election in May 2000. Throughout his years in government, he has reshaped the balance of power to secure his dominance and weaken institutional checks. In 2004, he announced a stage of recentralization, dismantling many regional powers and bringing political authority under tighter Kremlin control. According to the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, this shift entrenched centralized, top-down governance rooted in loyalty to the president and dominated by Kremlin-aligned political parties. With control over the courts, most of the media and the legislative branch, the Kremlin continues to repress citizens’ rights domestically while adopting foreign policy decisions that defy international norms, further eroding the rule of law.

The emergence of informal mechanisms has allowed state ideology to shape legal interpretations and enforcement, with unofficial directives treated as binding by the political system. As government transparency declines, informal rules overshadow international law and constitutional provisions, weakening the principle of equality before the law. This undermines the impartiality needed to combat corruption, ensure fair resource distribution, or secure fundamental rights. The breakdown of judicial independence leaves marginalized groups without meaningful legal recourse and institutionalizes exclusion.

The Legislative Branch: The Duma and the Federation Council

Composed of the Duma (lower house) and the Federation Council (upper house), the Russian Federation’s legislative branch should be independent, but the President controls many of its decisions. The Duma confirms that the President nominates the Prime Minister and other state ministers and passes laws that the executive proposes.

Regional governments and parliaments select 85 of the 170 Federation Council members, while the president directly appoints 30. Notably, the president has considerable influence over regional governors through recentralization. The president nominates governors instead of allowing public elections, and regional legislatures, that pro-Kremlin parties dominate, confirm them.

The result is the political sidelining of regional voices and minority populations. Areas marked by inequality have no formal channel to advocate for social support or investment. The lack of regional autonomy or accountability leads to disparities between Moscow’s political elite and the rest of the population, weakening public trust in the rule of law. 

The Constitution and the President

It should be no secret that the Russian Constitution has granted President Putin significant power, raising serious concerns about how far that power has extended and how this shift impacts the rule of law. According to the document, the president is the head of state and the guarantor of the constitution, giving him control over most foreign and domestic policy decisions. Endowing him with sweeping legislative powers, the Constitution allows Putin to appoint security ministers, making these issues almost exclusive to the president’s competence.

In 2020, Putin introduced constitutional amendments that further reduced citizens’ rights while expanding executive power. These changes extended presidential terms, enhanced control over the judiciary and granted former presidents lifelong immunity and a permanent seat in the Federation Council. Legal accountability is virtually absent in a system with no meaningful electoral competition or judicial independence. This structure allows the state to ignore inequality while preserving elite privilege and those outside the core political apparatus face systemic neglect.

Russia and the Rule of Law Today

One of the most significant legal tools for controlling dissent is the 2012 “foreign agents law.” Initially applied to NGOs receiving international funding, it has since expanded to target media outlets, advocacy groups and individuals. The 2022 revisions added the broad and ambiguous “foreign influence” category, allowing the state to label critics as national security threats. As a result, the government has cracked down on civil society groups, especially those advocating for human rights, ethnic minorities and the economically vulnerable, forcing them to operate underground.

Poverty in Russia remains a pressing issue, particularly in rural areas and among minority populations. According to the World Bank, around 12.1% of Russians lived below the national poverty line in 2022, with the rate disproportionately affecting families and those in underdeveloped regions. Weak rule of law exacerbates this problem by limiting access to fair legal recourse, reinforcing corruption and enabling the misuse of public funds intended for social welfare.

Following the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s courts became even more visibly biased, enforcing laws that serve state narratives. The state now regularly carries out political trials, arbitrary detentions and harsh sentencing. With growing restrictions on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association, the Kremlin reasserts dominance and undermines the rights of its citizens.

In response to these challenges, some initiatives continue to push for reform. The EU-Russia Civil Society Forum and its “Legal Discourse” program seek to enhance the potential of the participation of NGOs in the discussion of legal matters between the European Union and Russia. This platform emphasizes the importance of promoting and protecting values like human rights, the rule of law, separation of powers, government accountability, administrative compliance and judicial independence.

Resistance and Civil Society

Despite growing repression, Russian civil society continues to resist. Journalists, activists and ordinary citizens risk their freedom to challenge state abuse. Though weakened since the 1990s, moments like the 2011–2012 electoral protests and quiet acts of defiance in response to the invasion of Ukraine reflect a resilient spirit. Individual resistance now outweighs mass movements, with citizens using subtle, creative means to oppose the regime.

Organizations such as Global Call to Action Against Poverty and Caritas of Mother of God Archdiocese have been working to fight poverty within the federation. Making information about patient rights more available to citizens, GCAP’s Russia program aims to improve healthcare in impoverished communities. Caritas of Mother of God Archdiocese, formerly known as Caritas Russia, is a national agency operating under the Catholic Church that focuses on providing the poor and victims of disasters, accidents and armed conflicts with medical and social support. Recently, the organization has been supporting families that have fled Ukraine into Russia, supplying them with food, hygiene materials, medicine and bedding.

Looking Ahead

Authoritarian control has severely damaged Russia’s legal institutions, leaving its citizens with a system that silences opposition and allows inequality to grow unchecked. Under Putin, the rule of law in Russia has withered, concentrating power in the hands of the elite while marginalizing large segments of the population. Through constitutional manipulation, centralized political appointments and laws targeting dissent, the state has built a framework that prioritizes loyalty over fairness. 

Yet, resistance endures. Programs such as the EU-Russia Civil Society Forum and grassroots initiatives such as Caritas and GCAP demonstrate that, despite repression and challenges with the rule of law in Russia, the fight for the protection of the vulnerable and the promotion of justice continues. In the face of adversity, quiet resistance remains a tool for fighting for a more inclusive, equitable, and lawful future.

– Rafaela Paquet

Rafaela is based in Montreal, Canada and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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From Voice to Value: Data of TracFM Produces Change in Uganda

TracFMIn the hills and towns of Uganda, a quiet revolution is taking place over the airwaves. Across Africa, interactive radio shows have long allowed citizens to voice their concerns, but in Uganda, a tech-for-good organization called TracFM is taking it further. It’s pioneering a program that keeps the conversation going, turning public feedback into real action.

The nonprofit’s key innovation is not the radio show itself. It has software that transforms thousands of scattered opinions from SMS messages into clear, structured data, offering policymakers undeniable evidence of citizens’ needs.

By systematically collecting and analyzing this citizen-generated data, TracFM is amplifying voices to reduce poverty in a way that is measurable, targeted and impossible to ignore. This data-driven approach is creating a new, more responsive relationship between the Ugandan people and their leaders.

Quantifying Invisibility: Data on Identity

One of the most profound barriers to escaping poverty is invisibility. This lack of legal recognition has tangible consequences, barring individuals from enrolling in school, accessing government health programs or even securing a formal job. Recognizing this, TracFM’s VOICES Campaign tackled the issue by engaging citizens on the importance of civil registration.

The campaign did more than talk; its polls generated quantifiable data, revealing concrete problems like limited knowledge about civil registration and its benefits. This data produces change at a subregional level, allowing local governments to deploy registration units with greater precision, shifting the issue from a collection of anecdotes to an evidence-based policy challenge.

This new civil registration data will undoubtedly support African leaders and the World Bank Group in their goal of ensuring every citizen has a digital identity by 2030. They believe proper identification enables “financial inclusion, improved governance and the empowerment of women and girls.” It also unlocks a wide range of additional benefits.

From Identity to an Individual’s Rights

Another campaign of TracFM targets the complex issue of governance and human rights. Without a clear understanding of their fundamental rights, citizens may be afraid to speak up or assemble. TracFM’s Human Rights Awareness campaign, known as the Sauti Stream, directly confronted this by educating people on their rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly.

The data from the SMS polls created a vital feedback loop, essentially a report on the state of civic literacy, “with 64% of respondents either unaware of their rights or lacking access to information.” Additional data from the reports offer educators and civil society groups insight into which rights are least understood, helping them to tailor their outreach programs accordingly.

This process is a grassroots application of the principles championed by the United Nations Development Program’s (UNDP) “Human Rights-Based Approach to Development.” The approach argues that development is most effective when people are empowered agents of change. The data of TracFM produces change by providing the concrete evidence needed for that empowerment to translate into responsive public engagement, ensuring resources for civic education can be directed where they are needed most.

A Look at Land Ownership

Armed with an identity and knowledge of their rights, citizens can tackle core economic issues like land. Insecure land rights are a primary driver of poverty and conflict, particularly for women and farmers. TracFM’s Land Rights in Uganda campaign addressed this by polling citizens on their knowledge of land laws and their experiences with local land management.

These polls developed data that highlighted where legal literacy was lowest and where citizens felt most powerless. Surprisingly, only 18% of respondents said they had registered their land, stating that the process is “too expensive or complicated.” About 68% of respondents believed that their registration would only benefit the elite and they were not misled in their assumptions.

Given their reduced access to legal counsel and information, the average citizen is vulnerable to land fraud and corruption. Such issues point toward a clear need for greater transparency and more responsible collection of information. The concept of citizen-generated data to improve economic stability is at the forefront of global development. The World Bank’s 2021 report, “Data for Better Lives,” details how such data can help design more effective public services, including land registration programs that secure property rights for people experiencing poverty. This data-driven model also aligns with global trends in governance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, TracFM’s power lies in its process: it captures the human voice, translates it into the language of data and presents it as clear evidence. It proves that data produces change and that citizen-driven information is most effective when voices are not just heard, but counted and given weight.

– Levi Ravnsborg

Levi is based in Summerland, BC, Canada and focuses on Technology and Solutions for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Greta Thunberg’s Advocacy: The Fight for Global Equality

Greta Thunberg's AdvocacyGreta Thunberg’s steadfast advocacy at only 22 years old revolutionizes the new generation with her impact, inspiring the youth to speak up. Her influence fosters a sense of shared power while encouraging collective action among individuals with similar political beliefs by highlighting aspects of her identity that resonate with diverse groups and drawing broader public focus to urgent global issues.

The Greta Effect

Thunberg has earned recognition as an environmental activist, but her rise to global prominence through the Fridays for Future movement, sparked by a solitary school strike amplified by social media, has significantly influenced policymaking, public discourse and behavior. This resulted in the tag “Greta effect.” As one of the first political icons shaped entirely by the dynamics of social media, Thunberg engages a younger, digital-savvy audience and communicates across multiple platforms.

Her impact challenges traditional frameworks of environmental communication and digital activism, as she also embodies aspects of celebrity culture, garnering both widespread support and sharp criticism. Thus, this duality has fueled opposition, contributing to broader backlash against climate activism and raising concerns about increasing polarization, misinformation and conspiracy theories.

Political Activism

Thunberg’s outreach through public speeches and protests, including the lack of action on climate change, highlights the effectiveness of reshaping policy agendas.

Her involvement included the United Nations Climate Action Summit in 2019, where she spoke about the climate change crisis with sustainable development goals to transition the world into a healthier, livable ecosystem for all by limiting global warming. She used her public platform and voice to emphasize this vital matter to political leaders by challenging them to speak up regarding global temperatures and emissions rising. 

Thus, Thunberg’s political involvement expanded beyond environmental issues, but also toward human rights activism. In recent events, with the ongoing genocide in Gaza, Thunberg and 11 activists sailed to Gaza with the intent to safely open the humanitarian corridor. As Gaza faces more than three months of Israeli blockade, nearly 2.1 million of the population is facing food shortages, creating one of the world’s worst hunger crises.

The Madleen ship, boarded by the 12 activists carrying aid, was seized by Israel and this led to the deportation of Thunberg. However, by confronting political leaders and leveraging platforms such as social media, television and conferences, Thunberg has compelled global attention to this issue, even prompting criticism from President Donald Trump. Ironically, such criticism has amplified her message, drawing millions to her activism and inspiring others to adopt similar strategies.

What’s Next?

Greta Thunberg’s advocacy, speeches and social media outreach have generated widespread media attention and heightened awareness of global equality overall. Through what many call the Greta effect, her activism has pressured politicians to respond to the growing movement she represents. It has helped shift environmental activism into the digital space, inspired millions to take action through social media and school strikes, making climate change a central issue in global politics and public discourse, especially among the youth.

The extensive coverage of her efforts has helped shape policy agendas, influenced political leaders to take action and demonstrated how individual voices can drive meaningful change in public opinion and political decision-making.

– Hibah Iqbal

Hibah is based in Houston, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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COPHCI: Addressing Disability and Poverty in Côte d’Ivoire 

Disability and Poverty in Côte d’IvoireSince its founding in 2012, Confédération des Organisations des Personnes Handicapées de Côte d’Ivoire (COPHCI) has been on the frontlines of the fight for people with disabilities (PWDs) for over a decade. It has made their mark as a bastion of support for the disabled and a pillar of social and political progress, particularly when it comes to addressing the often-intertwined challenges of disability and poverty in Côte d’Ivoire. 

A Closer Look at Disability and Poverty in Côte d’Ivoire

Côte d’Ivoire has seen a rapid rise in the Human Development Index (HDI) since the turn of the 21st century, surpassing the threshold of a country with medium development in 2017. This has resulted in a windfall of social progress in the country, with life expectancy at birth increasing by over 10 years by 2023-24, and the average GNP nearly doubling in the same time frame.

Nevertheless, people with disabilities (PWDs) in Côte d’Ivoire still face a litany of impediments which keep them from reaping the rewards of such progress and from proper inclusion in their communities. For instance, an observational study by COPHCI found that 83.56% of polling stations lacked accessibility for PWDs during the presidential elections in 2020, and the legislative elections in 2021. Additionally, UNICEF found that only 26% of children with disabilities had access to education. Such glaring inadequacies in the treatment of children and adults with disabilities have created a dire need for a reimagined approach to inclusivity in Côte d’Ivoire.

The burden to change the status quo has thus fallen on local organizations – often working in collaboration with one another – to support those whom the country’s hastening development has neglected. Many also work on building ties with various government ministries in an effort to highlight the often-ignored ails which the country faces. 

COPHCI’s Fight

COPHCI is an umbrella organization, heading more than a dozen Federations which are separated by type of disability or by the specific needs of disabled individuals. It acts as a central unifier for all of these groups, working as, in their own words, a liaison between them. 

COPHCI seeks to give a voice to the usually voiceless and bring awareness to problems which are otherwise completely overlooked by authorities. As an umbrella organization, COPHCI focuses primarily on awareness-raising, and it has acted as a crucial part of many social inclusion and aid initiatives undertaken in Côte d’Ivoire.

For this reason, workshops and community events form the backbone of much of the work which COPHCI does. Not only do they meet with and educate disadvantaged communities, they also act as a link between them and Côte d’Ivoire’s governing bodies. In 2024, the organization undertook a number of initiatives, one of which was a two-day November workshop with fellow advocacy groups to push for the involvement of PWDs in the burgeoning economic development of the country. As the economy continues to expand, COPHCI has worked tirelessly to ensure that space is made for people who have historically been left out of the job market.

Key to the country’s development is the Youth Employment Agency, an agency which has worked to improve employment opportunities for youth in Côte d’Ivoire since its establishment in 2015. COPHCI has worked tirelessly to lobby this agency, especially in 2024, and successfully pushed for a special desk for people with disabilities. This was a major victory for PWDs in the labor market, finally giving them a voice and place in the economic expansion of their country.

Continuing the Fight in 2025

COPHCI has so far stayed out of any headlines in 2025, however, the group’s website shows its continued efforts to train caregivers and educate local communities. As Côte d’Ivoire continues to blossom on the world stage, it is organizations like COPHCI which will ensure that disabled and disadvantaged people can finally take part in their country’s progress, and that disability and poverty in Côte d’Ivoire cease to be a barrier of entry to participation.

– Alex Degterev

Alex is based in Brookline, MA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Uyghur Muslim Rights: Organizations Making a Difference

Uyghur Muslim RightsThe Uyghur Muslims are a population steeped in history, practicing their religion for centuries. The religion has amassed a rich culture which ranges from unique music known as Muqam, to their very own language. However, as unique as Uyghur culture may be, it is one in decline as a result of continual persecution from the Chinese State.

Since 2017, what China describes as “re-education” centers have appeared across the country’s west. Uyghurs are held in these centers without legal process and, in many cases, are forced to undergo slave labor, such as picking cotton. This horrific situation has continually garnered international condemnation, with the former U.S. Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, describing the situation as an “ongoing genocide.”

With the case being such a high-profile one, many groups are fighting for the freedom of the Uyghurs.

Coalition to End Forced Labor in the Uyghur Region

The Coalition to End Forced Labor in the Uyghur Region is an internationally endorsed initiative united in ending “state-sponsored forced labour and other egregious human rights abuses against people from the Uyghur Region.” It calls on companies and governments to challenge the Chinese government’s oppression against the Uyghurs.

The coalition documents many different stories from those who are subject to this oppression, helping to highlight the awful conditions in the “re-education” centers. Other than calling on action from both companies and governments, the coalition seeks to enhance and protect Uyghur Muslim rights by continually highlighting the abhorrent abuse that Uyghurs face. By highlighting these rights abuses, there is a greater chance of the Uyghur’s fight for freedom garnering public attention as it did in the late 2010s.

Anti-Slavery International

Anti-Slavery International is a nongovernmental organization (NGO) that highlights slavery and human rights abuses. On many occasions, the organization has covered the Uyghur Muslim rights violations, also highlighting how many Western countries enable these violations.

The nonprofit highlights different Chinese exports and links them as products of Uyghur slavery, including tomato paste, solar panels and electric vehicles. The organization calls on governments to ban imports with potential links to slavery as a means of combating the shameful tirade that China imposes on Uyghur Muslim rights.

World Uyghur Congress

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) aims to “promote democracy, human rights and freedom for the Uyghur people.” The congress has a comprehensive leadership system chosen by more than 170 delegates from 27 countries, outlining how global the group has become. The WUC relies heavily on grassroots mobilization to drive meaningful change.

It encourages individuals to take action through petitions, public demonstrations and letter-writing campaigns addressed to government officials. Amid the ongoing persecution of the Uyghur population in China, the WUC’s role has become increasingly vital in advocating for the protection and advancement of Uyghur Muslim rights within the country.

Conclusion

Organizations like the Coalition to End Forced Labor, Anti-Slavery International and the WUC continue to lead efforts to defend Uyghur Muslim rights. Indeed, by raising awareness, pressuring governments and mobilizing global support, they play a vital role in challenging oppression and keeping the fight for justice alive.

– Andrew Nicoll

Andrew is based in Long Melford, Suffolk, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Colombia 

Fragility and Rule of Law in Colombia
In international relations, the rule of law is a principle of governance that holds all parties, including the government itself, accountable to the same rules. Colombia, however, has faced challenges in fairly upholding this principle, leading to political instability and violence. This article will focus on the fragility and rule of law in Colombia. While significant progress has occurred in recent years, major challenges remain. Overcoming these challenges and strengthening the rule of law will require continued legislative reforms, domestic activism and sustained international support. Although an uphill battle, there is hope for Colombia’s legal system.

Understanding the Roots of the Problem

Colombia has a simple legal structure, featuring a legislative, executive and judicial branch. The country elects a president every four years. A Supreme Court (Corte Suprema de Justicia) establishes legal precedent, and a Constitution serves as the foundation for addressing the fragility and rule of law in Colombia. In theory, everything should function smoothly. However, corruption, dysfunction and inequality plague the judicial system. Several factors have contributed to these conditions:

  1. Armed Conflict: Since the 1960s, civil war among rebel guerrilla groups and right-wing paramilitary groups has ravaged Colombia. Millions have been displaced or murdered, and this five-decade-long conflict significantly weakened legal institutions and fostered criminal activity, particularly in rural areas.
  2. Organized Crime: Human trafficking, drug cartels and illegal economies thrive in Colombia. This activity fuels violence and significantly undermines state authority. 
  3. Government Corruption: Elected officials frequently accept bribes from cartels, rebels and businesses to manipulate the law. These powerful figures are rarely held accountable, perpetuating a cycle of inequality.
  4. Dysfunctional Judicial System: Colombia’s judicial system itself is inherently flawed. Understaffing leads to a majority of crimes going unpunished. Legal professionals often face large bribes or violent threats, hindering their ability to administer justice. Furthermore, most poverty-stricken areas lack access to adequate legal institutions.

Impact on Citizens

The fragility and rule of law in Colombia has had a debilitating effect on its citizens, as one can see through citizens distrust of their government and the widespread poverty that runs rampant. Here is information about how fragility and rule of law in Colombia has increased distrust and poverty.

  • Distrust in Government: The World Justice Project’s 2022 survey reveals some shocking opinions that Colombian citizens hold:
    • Only 22% believe government officials would be held accountable for breaking the law.
    • Only 27% of citizens feel that local government officials are elected fairly.
    • A staggering 88% believe that most or all members of Congress are corrupt.
    • Only 36% believe the judicial system is effective in prosecuting criminals.
    • Over 70% believe most or all legal officials are corrupt.
    • Only 26% feel the police act lawfully, and a mere 25% trust the police.
  • Poverty: Corruption significantly hinders development and exacerbates poverty. In fact, as reported by the U.S. Department of State, Colombia lost more than $115 million (meant for infrastructure) to bribes and kickbacks. This irresponsible usage of resources prevents the government from providing essential services to the public, disproportionately affecting poor citizens that rely on the assistance. Furthermore, according to the World Bank, 39.3% of Colombians lived below the national poverty line in 2022. Put simply, corruption wastes resources that could be used for poverty reduction programs, infrastructure development or education, further entrenching Colombia’s citizens in a cycle of poverty.

Progress Towards Equality

While the situation is challenging, the statistics above actually represent growth compared to previous years, particularly regarding perceptions of corruption. This indicates that, albeit slowly, Colombia is making strides toward stability.

Several factors have contributed to this progress, including legislative reforms and international efforts:

  • International Bar Association’s Human Rights Institute (IBAHRI): This group actively works to restructure the Colombian Judicial System. The IBAHRI has conducted fact-finding missions, provided training to judges and lawyers and advocated for legal reform.
  • Colombian Government: Technology is being implemented to streamline judicial processes. One example is the “Justicia XXI” program, which aims to digitize court records and implement electronic case management systems. 
  • The United States: Since 2017, the United States has donated roughly $1.5 billion to Colombia to assist in “peace accord implementation.” These programs have contributed to the resolution of civil war, reduction of poverty and a crackdown on drugs.
  • The World Bank: The World Bank has provided Colombia with two DPFs. A DPF (or a Development Policy Financing) is a type of loan/grant that aims to support poverty reduction. In Colombia, specifically, the money has gone towards the creation of policy that “improves fiscal sustainability, increases productivity and improves economic/social integration of migrants.” 
  • European Union: The European Union Trust Fund for Colombia, established in 2016, supports projects such as the Land Restitution Unit, which helps victims of armed conflict restore their territory, and the Rural Development Project, which looks to increase living standards in underserved regions of the country.
  • Legislative Reforms:

A Plan for the Future

To maintain this positive trajectory, Colombia will need to continue its anti-corruption campaign by continuing to reform the judicial system, implementing technology and expanding access to justice, particularly in rural and marginalized communities. Furthermore, the country needs to improve security measures, specifically by increasing police accountability and trustworthiness. In doing so, Colombia should be able to combat organized crime, one of the largest issues that the country faces. 

Although domestic reform is critical, Colombia cannot act alone. It will need support from the international community. Currently, the United States, the World Bank and the European Union all provide financial aid, and it would be beneficial for more institutions to follow suit. If Colombia can capitalize on international support, reduce corruption and reform its judicial system, a brighter future is within reach. The fragility and rule of law in Colombia will no longer be a burden, but a testament to peace, democracy and equality.

– Josh Weinstein

Josh is based in Chester Springs, PA, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Ukraine

Rule of Law in UkraineRussia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 has strained the rule of law in Ukraine as the country navigates maintaining human rights and order amidst unprecedented challenges. While the invasion has caused the oppressive influence of the post-soviet Oligarchy to diminish with aid from Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s introduction of the anti-oligarchy law in 2021, millions of people have sunk further into poverty due to key factors such as rising costs of basic resources, loss of livelihoods and forced displacement. The stability of civilian rights has become even more fragile, with more people falling into poverty and insecurity due to the state’s adoption of martial law to preserve overall national security.

Post-Soviet Rule of Law

The collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 brought about the power of the Oligarchy, which due to the privatization of state-owned assets such as transport and utilities controlled a large majority of the political-economic landscape, using extra-legal methods to maintain severe monetary inequalities. Economic stagnation led to at least 30% of families living below the poverty line with heavily restricted access to health care and food security, creating a declining population.

At the turn of the century in 2000, Ukraine’s capital management and utilization improved and the economic output recovery was astounding; a rapid increase in labor activity resulted in a decrease in the poverty rate from 32% to 8% from 2001 to 2005, allowing the poverty rate to reach a stable plateau. However the power of the Oligarchs did not diminish and two revolutions followed; The Orange Revolution from 2004 to 2005 and The Revolution of Dignity in 2014, both sparked by political corruption traced back to the Oligarchs. 

Effects of the Russo-Ukrainian War on the Rule of Law

Following the Kerch Strait incident in November 2018, Ukraine introduced martial law for 30 days and it has been in effect again since February 2022 due to the invasion of Russian forces. As Amnesty International outlined, martial law has a devastating impact on socioeconomic rights such as freedom of expression, violence against minority groups and the right to a healthy environment.

Personal liberties are under threat, with Ukrainian men aged from 18 to 60 unable to leave the country without special exemption and the conscription age reduced from 27 to 25 in April 2024 to support a larger military. Ukraine allows forced alienation of property and the use of enterprises’ facilities for the need of the state, providing compensation only upon presentation of correct documentation. The Ukrainian government also postponed the Parliamentary elections, which were due in late 2023, for as long as the country remains under martial law to preserve government stability.

Additionally, World Bank data reports that the percentage of Ukrainians living in poverty spiked from 5.5% to 24.1% in 2022 when the full-scale invasion began. This translates to a further 7.1 million people living in poverty, setting the country back 15 years of progress.

Organizations Working to Stabilize the Rule of Law

Despite infringements on civilian rights, positive steps are occurring to help those forced into poverty because of the conflict, alongside legal forces working to ensure that the government does not overstep its jurisdiction while operating under martial law. The World Bank’s PEACE project is helping essential public support services from the government continue. It has reached 15 million Ukrainians since 2022, providing wages for essential workers, pensions for the elderly and social programs for vulnerable individuals.

Amnesty International has also recently launched a campaign to end war crimes against Ukrainians in Russian captivity, detailing that since the invasion in 2022, thousands of Ukrainian POWs (prisoners of war) have experienced detainment or torture. The campaign is still currently in its grassroots stages, however has gained the support of more than 100 former POWs and relatives of POWs, calling for messages to Russian authorities to end the widespread abuse of captive Ukrainians.

Furthermore, The International Bar Association reports that Ukraine as of late 2024 has been formally granted to join the International Criminal Court (ICC), having sworn in 250 judges at an oath-taking ceremony aimed at abolishing remaining corruptive forces and strengthening the rule of law in Ukraine within the current state of martial law.

Closing Remarks

The rule of law in Ukraine is currently in a delicate position, with the Russo-Ukrainian war and the introduction of martial law causing numerous setbacks in their post-soviet socioeconomic progression towards a stronger economy and a reduced poverty rate. However, the events have catalyzed hugely positive changes that have eroded the long-standing corruption within the government dating back to the Soviet era. The Russo-Ukrainian war is still in a volatile state and at the height of violence hitherto, however, the steps taken by the key nonprofit and legal institutions will prove pivotal in allowing for further progression and protection of civil liberties within Ukraine’s current compromised state of martial law and conflict.

– Helena Pryce

Helena is based in Nottingham, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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Everything You Need to Know About Poverty in Myanmar 

Poverty in MyanmarMyanmar, also known as Burma, is a republic in Southeast Asia. Stretching from the foothills of the Himalayas to the Thai-Malay peninsula, the region is populated with more than 135 officially recognized ethnic groups (and numerous others). The National League for Democracy’s historic election in 2015 marked the country’s first civilian government after more than 50 years of military rule. Yet, this experiment with democracy was short-lived, as a military coup in 2021 has since plunged the state into a multifaceted conflict and humanitarian crisis. Today, poverty in Myanmar is worsening significantly. A third of the population requires humanitarian aid, and internally displaced people are the most vulnerable.

Crumbling Infrastructure 

The conflict’s impact varies across the states but has reversed years of poverty reduction efforts. In 2018, the government launched the Myanmar Sustainable Development Plan to encourage liberal trade policies, fund infrastructure projects and create more equitable access to markets, information, technology, education and health care. This plan recognized the importance of democratic principles, environmental sustainability and stability in directly addressing the key drivers of poverty.

Warfare has stifled this progress. In particular, the military junta’s scorched-earth tactics to crush actors have damaged civilian access to necessary resources, including health care, medicine, energy and food. Infrastructure destruction continues to isolate communities from economic opportunities and essential services. According to the World Bank, poverty rates have surged from 24.8% in 2017 to approximately 49.7% in 2023.

The humanitarian situation is dire: armed groups damaged 333 health care facilities between January and December 2024; food insecurity affects 15.2 million people; and more than half of the children of internally displaced people, returnees or stateless people can not access formal education. These factors combine to entrench intergenerational cycles of poverty in Myanmar.

Resource Wealth and Corruption

Natural resources dominate Myanmar’s economy, accounting for 43% of economic activity through agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry. The country also has significant mining and natural gas industries, with gas comprising 40% of exports. Kachin State produces most of the world’s jade, valued at up to $31 billion in 2014 — half of Myanmar’s GDP.

Despite this immense wealth potential, narrow interests can exploit weak institutions and absent checks and balances to the detriment of the local community. In Kachin, a mosaic of ethnonationalist conflict predates the 2021 coup. The Kachin Independence Army, one of the largest armed ethnic organizations, has fought for regional autonomy since 1961. This has created “war economies” where resource extraction is used to sustain the groups’ survival by maintaining a complex web of alliances and interests rather than supporting development. Despite generating billions in jade revenue, 37.4% of locals in the northern region live below the poverty line.

Human Rights Abuses 

Human rights violations — including torture, illegal killings and collective punishment — characterize the conflict. Both the military junta and opposing factions share responsibility, with civilian recruitment blurring combatant lines.

In many states, armed violence and abuses predate the coup — the Rakhine being a notorious example. The previous civilian government’s genocide against the Rohingya forced approximately 1 million people to flee to Bangladesh, while more than 140,000 remain in camps. Those remaining live under apartheid-like conditions, with restricted movement and limited access to healthcare, education and livelihoods.

These abuses directly perpetuate poverty in Myanmar. Displacement separates people from land and livelihoods; trauma impairs earning capacity; restricted movement prevents market access; and property destruction eliminates savings — creating persistent poverty traps across generations.

Humanitarian Response to Address Poverty in Myanmar

Humanitarian aid is crucial for Myanmar’s vulnerable populations. As Western governments reduce development assistance, the sector faces uncertainty. Recent policy changes under the Trump administration have refocused attention on reform initiatives like The Grand Bargain and Charter for Change, which emphasize locally driven aid. 

The Joint Strategy Team in Kachin and Northern Shan State is one local actor that has led humanitarian efforts in the Kachin State since the re-eruption of conflict in 2011. It is an intermediary body comprised of faith-based and community organizations like the Kachin Relief and Development Committee (KRDC), Kachin Women Association (KWA) and the Bridging Rural Integrated Development and Grassroot Empowerment (BRIDGE). Its 10 governing leaders have demonstrated the success of relevant, flexible and decentralized decision-making. Since August 2021, it has directed foreign-aid funding from the Livelihoods and Food Security Fund (LIFT) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office to respond to instability and crisis – supporting more than 200,000 internally displaced people as of July 2023.

This localization offers hope for more effective poverty reduction. Local organizations better understand community needs, can access areas international actors cannot and often deliver aid more cost-effectively. However, armed conflict, bureaucratic obstacles and targeted violence of humanitarian infrastructure create significant challenges. Myanmar has one of the world’s most underfunded humanitarian response plans. Donors have provided only 34% of the funding for the 2024 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan, leaving 1.4 million people deprived of the assistance they need.

The Future of Addressing Poverty in Myanmar

Addressing poverty in Myanmar requires conflict resolution, governance reforms, infrastructure rebuilding, economic diversification and social protection systems. Until political stability returns, supporting locally led humanitarian initiatives provides the best path to mitigate extreme hardship while building foundations for recovery. Sustainable poverty reduction ultimately depends on achieving inclusive peace.

– Bijal Manoj Daialal

Bijal is based in Leicester, UK and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay