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Everything to Know About Poverty in Ukraine

Poverty in UkraineAs Ukraine remains in a state of conflict and continues to face challenges related to war, a momentum for change is developing, one marked by resilience, global support and notable advancement to reduce poverty.

Ukraine is actively building and laying the foundation for a better future. International organizations, local NGOs, as well as government efforts are proving that even in the darkest of times, change is feasible. When exploring everything you need to know about poverty in Ukraine, it becomes clear that despite ongoing adversity, progress is taking root in multiple areas of Ukrainian society.

Understanding Poverty in Ukraine

As of 2023, more than 29%% of Ukraine’s population, about 9 million people, lived in poverty. This number rose drastically amid the war with Russia. Since 2020, an additional 1.8 million Ukrainians have fallen into poverty due to widespread job losses and a collapsing economy. One in five adults who had employment before the invasion are now without work, and nearly a quarter of households reported struggling to afford food in June 2023. Conditions would be far worse without international aid. Especially for the United States, which has helped fund critical public services like pensions and salaries for teachers and doctors. The war has deepened economic instability, pushing many working-class families closer to the margins of survival. 

Poverty in Ukraine hits families with children the hardest, especially those with four or more children. These families face poverty rates of more than 80% and children are more likely than adults to live in poor conditions. This puts their education and development at risk. Still, the Ukrainian government has kept most health clinics open and helped nearly 89% of students keep learning, often online. Social support, like steady pension payments, has helped many families survive and avoid even worse hardship. 

Global Aid Drives Impact

In late 2024, the World Bank approved more than $2 billion in financial support for Ukraine. This initiative aims to stabilize the economy and fund essential public services. It introduces key reforms that improve transparency, expand the use of renewable energy and strengthen agricultural production, which is a considerable resolve for Ukraine.

Under the THRIVE project, to boost Ukraine’s health system, a separate $454 million package is being used. The initiative aims to improve efficiency and quality of public health care spending by strengthening national health services and expanding access for underserved communities.

Humanitarian Efforts to Address Poverty in Ukraine

In addition to major international funding, the civil society of Ukraine is playing a critical role in local recovery efforts. Razom, a U.S.-based nonprofit founded by Ukrainian immigrants, continues to make a significant impact. In 2023, the organization awarded more than $3 million in grants, reaching more than 330,000 people with support for food, shelter, education and attention to mental and trauma care.

Meanwhile, a leading example of trauma recovery emerges as the Superhumans Center located in Lviv is observed. Since its launch in April 2023, the facility has treated more than 1,000 amputees, a majority being treated for war injuries, being provided with prosthetics, reconstructive surgery and physiological care. It stands as a symbol of resilience and hope, making it more than a medical center. 

Understanding poverty in Ukraine means recognizing how both global and local actions are addressing not just economic hardship, but also the human and emotional costs of conflict. These combined efforts are helping restore lives and rebuild communities.

While poverty remains a reality for many Ukrainians, structural progress is underway. In 2024, grain and oilseed exports increased by 20%, and more than 75% of export operations resumed though Black Sea ports, an essential lifeline for the nation’s economy.

The government continues to improve digital infrastructure, expanding access to online services. For the fourth consecutive year, more government websites have met accessibility standards, allowing a greater number of Ukrainians, including those with disabilities, to access essential information and services.

Looking Ahead

Addressing poverty in Ukraine involves more than statistics. It is about the strength of people and institutions forging a path forward. While poverty remains a pressing issue, Ukraine’s path forward is progressively defined by recovery and renewal rather than survival. Efforts to rebuild a strong and inclusive society are in progress, supported by steady advantage in health care, education and economic infrastructure. Although these developments may unfold indistinctly, they are consistent and measurable. From a noticeable increase in clinics to rising export numbers, the country is making true advancements. For many Ukrainians, that gradual progress signals a shift towards stability and hope.

– Vasara Mikulevicius

Vasara is based in West Bloomfield, MI, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Poverty in Southern Madagascar

Poverty in Southern MadagascarMadagascar, the world’s fourth-largest island, grapples with a humanitarian crisis brought by changing climatic conditions, persistent poverty and political instability. As of 2024, approximately 2.3 million people require urgent humanitarian assistance, with 1.6 million targeted for aid but only reaching 900,000.

Drought in the Deep South

The southern region of Madagascar, known as the Deep South, is experiencing one of its worst droughts in four decades. Rainfall levels dropped by as much as 75% in 2016 and the region only received 60% of normal rainfall between 2019 and 2021.

As a result of the drought, a severe famine began and resulted in widespread hunger. The lack of rain decimated staple crops like maize, cassava and rice. Nearly a third of the region’s population requires emergency food assistance.

Alice Rahmoun, WFP’s Communications Officer in Madagascar, says, “So, what we can say is that impacts of climate [crisis] are really stronger and stronger…so harvests fail constantly, so people don’t have anything to harvest and anything to renew their food stocks.”

Food Insecurity

The WFP estimated that 1.35 million people in the Deep South were food insecure in 2021. Frequent cyclones add to the drought, which displaces thousands of water sources. These climate events destroy homes and infrastructure and devastate agricultural lands, further increasing food shortages.

Children in rural poverty communities in southern Madagascar are among the most affected by the crisis. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reports that about 950,000 children are in need of humanitarian assistance, facing threats from malnutrition, lack of clean water and limited access to education. 

Malnutrition rates among children aged below 5 have soared, with global aid groups reporting that nearly half a million kids are at risk of severe acute malnutrition. In remote villages, families have resorted to extreme measures to survive by eating cactus or locusts.

Humanitarian Aid and Climate-Smart Solutions

In response to the poverty in southern Madagascar, UNICEF, which is heavily involved in providing humanitarian assistance, is intensifying its efforts. In 2025, the organization aims to provide treatment for severe wasting to 84,967 children 6-59 months and 114,000 women with multiple micronutrient supplementation.

Additionally, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has taken an innovative approach to using resistant crops. The organization introduced an initiative called the Climate Change Adaptation Programme and Mitigation in the Eastern and Southern Africa Region. The program aims to help smallholder farmers adapt to global heating by promoting drought-tolerant crops, conservation agriculture and sustainable land management practices.

Furthermore, Medair, an international humanitarian organization, is restoring water supplies to regions with the most water displacement due to cyclones. It is also providing essential housing hygiene items to prevent the spread of disease outbreaks and providing temporary shelters, disaster-resilient homes and supporting infrastructure to health centers.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Limited infrastructure complicates aid delivery to remote areas. Additionally, the frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters outpace humanitarian response. Comprehensive strategies that address immediate needs and long-term resilience are crucial to understanding the nation’s complex crisis.

– Sebastian Llerena

Sebastian is based in Edison, NJ, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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UNICEF’s HAC Appeal: Myanmar Stays Resilient

UNICEF's HACSince gaining independence in 1948, Myanmar has faced growing challenges involving its economy, internal conflict and public health. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) included Myanmar on its 2025 Emergency Watchlist, ranking it third among countries with the most significant risk of humanitarian disaster. International organizations such as UNICEF have supported the country for more than 70 years. Military juntas have governed Myanmar for most of its post-independence history. The first coup, led by General Ne Win in 1962, contributed to prolonged economic stagnation and persistent conflict between military leadership and opposition movements.

Escalating Conflict and Health Crisis Since 2021

Following the 2021 military coup by the Tatmadaw, escalating violence placed millions at risk. As of early 2025, more than 1.7 million people have been displaced. Limited access to vaccines and basic health care has contributed to Myanmar having the highest under-five mortality rate in Southeast Asia. Security conditions continue to deteriorate. Recent attacks include the arrest of opposition activists and airstrikes that have resulted in child casualties. Ground assaults have destroyed hospitals, further threatening access to health services.

Humanitarian Response by UNICEF and IRC

Organizations such as UNICEF and the IRC have worked to mitigate the crisis through long-term aid programs. UNICEF’s I.C.A.R.E. initiative combines cash assistance with rehabilitation services for children with disabilities. The agency also leads five inter-agency response priorities in Myanmar: WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene), education, nutrition, child protection and mine action.

In December 2024, UNICEF Regional Director for East Asia and the Pacific June Kunugi visited a daycare and physiotherapy center in Dala, Myanmar. Her visit included meetings with affected families and home visits to observe the program’s impact.

A beneficiary, six-year-old Wint Yamone Oo, receives support from the program, including cash transfers and mobility assistance. Wint attends therapy sessions and uses a walker provided through the initiative. The center continues to deliver services to children with disabilities and families facing displacement.

By the end of 2024, UNICEF’s HAC (Humanitarian Action for Children) appeal was launched, estimating that $208 million would be required to deliver critical services to 3.1 million vulnerable people across Myanmar.

Local Partnerships and Service Expansion

To ensure aid reaches marginalized populations, UNICEF partners with civil society organizations, nongovernmental organizations and other United Nations (U.N.) agencies. These partnerships help extend access to health and social protections and incorporate community feedback into service delivery.

UNICEF emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local-based actors to enhance program reach and responsiveness. This approach helps tailor support based on regional needs and reinforces long-term community engagement.

While UNICEF’s 2023 HAC appeal remained underfunded, ongoing efforts aim to secure greater donor support for 2024. UNICEF continues to advocate for sustainable funding to ensure continued assistance for children and families affected by conflict in Myanmar.

Looking Ahead

Ongoing support from international organizations remains vital as Myanmar continues to navigate its humanitarian crisis. Strengthening partnerships with local actors and expanding access to essential services could help protect vulnerable populations and lay the groundwork for long-term recovery.

– Rachael Wexler

Rachael is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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USAID Programs in Ecuador

USAID Programs in EcuadorEcuador is a small, diverse country in South America, bordering Colombia to the north, Peru to the south and east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Despite its size, it ranks among the most biologically diverse countries in the world, with the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, coastal plains and the Galápagos Islands shaping its rich ecosystems. While the country boasts beautiful cities and landscapes, many Ecuadorians face economic instability, limited job opportunities and displaced populations.

Ecuador’s rising violence, driven by drug cartels and organized crime, destabilizes the economy, deters investment and disrupts businesses. This worsens poverty by reducing job opportunities, increasing insecurity and straining public resources for civilians.

To address these issues, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has implemented key programs that aim to strengthen Ecuador’s development. From environmental conservation to economic growth and democratic governance, USAID programs in Ecuador have played a crucial role in the country’s stability and sustainability. Here are seven key initiatives shaping USAID’s efforts in Ecuador.

Strengthening Development and Resilience

Since 1961, USAID has worked with Ecuador to improve the quality of life. Programs have promoted sustainable economic growth, strengthened governance and protected the environment. USAID programs in Ecuador plays a crucial role in advancing the country’s development through key initiatives:

  1. Driving Economic Growth: Ecuador’s economy is vulnerable to shocks and macroeconomic instability due to its high reliance on the export of primary goods. More than 84% of “Ecuador’s farmers are small producers” with few opportunities to grow more crops. USAID has invested in the EDGE fund, which sought to narrow the gap between small-scale farmers and the markets that support them. These efforts support small businesses, increase employment opportunities and strengthen Ecuador’s economic foundation. Job growth reduces poverty, strengthens economic stability and improves quality of life.
  2. Advancing Environmental Conservation: Ecuador’s biodiversity remains one of its most valuable assets. It is home to many species and a variety of ecosystems. Between 2009 and 2014, USAID programs in Ecuador helped conserve 2.7 million hectares of biodiverse land in protected areas and Indigenous territories. This allowed the indigenous Cofán community to strengthen their culture, identity and ancestral knowledge. By funding sustainable land management practices and conservation programs, USAID helps Ecuador preserve its forests, rivers and wildlife for future generations.
  3. Strengthening Democratic Governance: Indigenous peoples in Ecuador possess a rich culture and a deep connection to their ancestral lands. However, they continue to face substantial challenges related to poverty, environmental threats and the preservation of their rights and heritage. An article by the International Fund for Agricultural Development stated, “Income inequality remains a problem, with almost half the rural population living in poverty compared to a third of people nationwide. The rates of extreme poverty in rural areas are double that of the total population.” USAID’s Amazon Indigenous Rights and Resources program strengthened Indigenous governance in Ecuador by promoting land rights, transparency and citizen participation. It improved resilience to climate change and empowered communities to work with government institutions on environmental and social challenges.
  4. Expanding Education and Workforce Development: Through programs like the Farmer-to-Farmer initiative, USAID connects experts with Ecuadorian farmers and business owners to share knowledge and improve agricultural practices. This will equip farmers with modern techniques to boost crop productivity, sustainability and economic resilience. It also strengthens the agricultural sector’s contribution to national economic growth.
  5. Improving Public Health Services: Ecuador has a small budget that is dedicated to their health system. As a result, the healthcare sector in the country experiences low numbers of medical personnel. Furthermore, there is a shortage of medicine, and outdated or lacking healthcare equipment. USAID plays a critical role in strengthening Ecuador’s health care system. Initiatives such as the Amazon Malaria Initiative focus on controlling and preventing malaria in Ecuador and neighboring countries. By improving disease prevention and health care infrastructure, USAID helps Ecuadorians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, access better medical services.
  6. Delivering Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief: Ecuador faces frequent natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods and landslides. The Ecuador Building Resilience Program equips communities with technical assistance and training in seismic-resistant construction. By improving infrastructure, USAID helps Ecuadorians build safer homes and withstand natural disasters.
  7. Supporting Migrants and Displaced Populations: Ecuador has become a key destination for migrants and displaced populations seeking economic opportunities. USAID’s RADAR project strengthens solid waste management systems, creates business opportunities and supports communities. Many Venezuelan migrants are significantly involved in the informal recycling sector. The RECIPRI association in Priorato, Ecuador, was created by Venezuelan migrants to organize their recycling activities. This provides training and promotes entrepreneurship, while also enhancing social and economic inclusion.

USAID’s Lasting Impact in Ecuador

USAID programs in Ecuador are vital. They address challenges by improving governance, expanding job growth and supporting vulnerable communities. Programs like Farmer-to-Farmer boost agricultural productivity, while RADAR helps integrate migrants into the economy. By improving resilience and stability, USAID programs in Ecuador play a key role in improving livelihoods and establishing long-term stability in Ecuador.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia 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

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The Fall of Assad’s Regime and Challenges Facing Syrians

The Fall of Assad’s RegimeIn the past decade, Syria has dealt with “one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.” More than 5 million Syrian refugees live in the five countries neighboring Syria. Since 2011, Syria has been marred by civil war. The brutal dictator, Bashar Al-Assad, has led a tyrannical regime over the Syrian people. In response to protests following the Arab Spring, the government used “deadly force” against the peaceful demonstrators. This violence escalated into a bloody civil war.

Additionally, “more than 14 million Syrians have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety” since 2011. The United Nations (U.N.) also reports that about 70% of the country’s population needs humanitarian assistance, with 90% living below the poverty line. However, the fall of Assad’s regime has happened and many Syrians are thinking of returning home. Although the fall of Assad’s regime can be seen as a positive development, the future for Syria and its people remains unclear. Here are five obstacles for the Syrian people after Assad fell from power.

Destruction of Infrastructure

Although Assad is gone and Syrian refugees consider the possibility of going back, Syria’s infrastructure has been obliterated by the 13-year civil war. “Basic amenities like clean water, electricity and housing are difficult to find,” Vox reports. For people whose homes were not destroyed, some of them have other people living in them now and “many refugees lack documentation to prove they own their properties.” 

On top of that, the new government will unlikely be able to resolve “property disputes” as they are stretched so thin. The vast majority of the country’s population needs aid. The U.N. Refugee Agency reports that 90% of the population depends on humanitarian assistance. In addition, it is the beginning of winter. If refugees start returning now, they will need “shelter, food and water.” There are continuous obstacles for the Syrian people.

Economic Problems

Syria’s economy is in dismal condition and high inflation presents problems for people in Syria, as well as refugees considering returning. The Central Bank of Syria reports that inflation reached 122% in April 2024. In addition, schools have been destroyed, leaving many children without education. In tandem with that, few job opportunities exist for people to earn a reasonable living. Employment is yet another one of the obstacles for Syrian people. 

During Assad’s reign, countries like the U.S. put heavy sanctions on Syria, hurting the nation’s economy even further. However, the current “de facto leader of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa,” is asking for sanctions to be lifted; he asserts that Syria does not pose a threat to other parts of the world as it did under Assad’s regime. The sanctions are currently still in place.

Uncertain Future

Although many feel joy at the end of Assad’s tyrannical and oppressive regime, the future remains uncertain for Syria. Ahmed al-Sharaa is the leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), “the dominant group in the rebel alliance,” which defeated Assad. HTS is designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S., U.N. and others. Also, the group was formerly part of the terrorist organization Al-Qaeda. Many are skeptical about whether or not the new leadership will bring peace to Syria.

Many countries hosting Syrian refugees are eager to send them back. However, too many people returning at once could cause new problems, as the government is already dealing with great hardship. Obstacles for Syrian people in and outside of the nation are ever-present. In the north of Syria, Turkish-backed groups are fighting Kurdish-led groups, which might lead to further violence. Even more, many Syrians are doubting that HTS will bring a peaceful future, as they led an authoritarian rule in the northwest of the country. 

Humanitarian Aid

Syria Relief & Development (SRD) is a nonprofit organization that addresses Syria’s most urgent need for aid. It was founded in 2011 and intends to provide humanitarian relief and encourage sustainable development in Syria. Since 2011, SRD has been involved in more than 18 million humanitarian interventions in Syria. The organization continues to provide support in health care, education, disaster relief and much more. 

Final Thoughts

Syria’s future may be unclear, but there is no doubt that the fall of Assad’s regime has brought great joy to the Syrian people. Obstacles for Syrian people are still present and much aid is still needed. However, there seems to be a hope that Syria will be able to forge a newer and better future.

– Michael Messina

Michael is based in Newburyport, MA, US and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Nauru Detention Center: An Example for the World?

Nauru Detention CenterNauru, once the richest nation globally, now stands among the most vulnerable due to intense phosphate mining that depleted its soil and main income source. In 2001, Nauruan authorities agreed to host a regional Australian offshore processing center in exchange for development aid. Under this arrangement, asylum-seekers headed for Australia are sent to the island during their resettlement process. With the increasing number of asylum-seekers worldwide and ongoing debates over foreign policy and immigration, several European countries are contemplating adopting Australia’s approach.

UK’s Immigration Strategy

The United Kingdom’s (U.K.’s) 2021 Plan for Immigration highlights its commitment to future migration partnerships and amends sections 77 and 78 of the Nationality Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 to allow for the transfer of asylum seekers from the U.K. while their claims or appeals are pending. The plan also keeps options open for offshore asylum processing if needed in the future. This approach remains pertinent as, in July 2024, the Guardian reported British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s openness to processing refugees offshore.

Human Rights Concerns

Although the U.K. intends to follow international regulations, the Nauru Detention Center can serve as a warning to other nations seeking to implement similar standards, as Human Rights Watch and prominent media outlets have denounced the poor living conditions and reported human rights violations in these facilities. Since 2013, people held at the Nauru Processing Center have been subject to several human rights violations, living in substandard conditions and in a seemingly endless uncertainty of whether they will be able to find resettlement elsewhere. 

Tragic Incidents and Living Conditions

In 2016, this situation gained major international attention when Omid Masoumali, a 23-year-old Iranian refugee who sought asylum in Australia, lit himself on fire in an act of protest against the country’s cruel detention policy. Detained for more than three years in Nauru, Omid died two days later.

In an interview for Amnesty International, Elham Arouni Hesari, Omid’s mother, said her son “loved Australia, but the way the country rejected and took his life will forever torture [her].” She elaborated on the wounds he acquired – internal bleeding and burns – and questioned why he was operated on in ill-equipped medical facilities. Refugees receive inhumane treatment, residing in moldy, overcrowded and unhygienic tents where they lack both safety and privacy. With little access to education and proper housing, children and parents often reported feeling unsafe due to the guards’ aggressive and threatening behavior.

Nauru’s Health Care Crisis

Dr. Nick Martin, along with other health care specialists and Nauruans, find the health care system on the island unsatisfactory and inadequate for the community’s needs. The Nauruan government struggles with a deepening health crisis, especially regarding refugee protection. For the past 11 years, patients frequently needed medical treatment overseas but were often denied transfer to Australian hospitals, leading to worsened health outcomes and sometimes fatal consequences.

Despite Australia investing significantly in Nauru’s health facilities—approximately A$865,000 annually per person—medical treatment remains insufficient. With a small community, Nauru is ill-equipped to meet the needs of its increasingly vulnerable population. Independent reviews by the Australian Medical Association have highlighted critical gaps, including a lack of access to essential items like glasses or medications for existing conditions.

Meghna Abraham, Director of Global Thematic Issues at Amnesty International, has strongly criticized these practices, stating, “Nauru has failed to provide refugees with the health care they desperately need. Denying them medical transfers is yet another blow and demonstrates just how far the human rights of refugees have slipped down Nauru and Australia’s agendas.”

Challenges Faced by Refugees

Refugees who have integrated into the Nauruan community face significant challenges, as highlighted in the latest report by the Asylum Seeker Resources Centre (ASRC). Despite promises of necessities upon release from closed detention, many still struggle to afford three meals a day, clothes, drinking water, towels and shoes.

An anonymous asylum-seeker explained the financial hardships to ASRC: “Everything on Nauru is very expensive and the financial allowance of $230 per fortnight is not enough. The phone and internet package is $100 and drinking water is $70, this leaves $60 for food and all other expenses. IHMS doctors told us to eat fruits and vegetables, but we cannot afford it and it is affecting our health.”

Accommodation also presents challenges, with more than 35 people residing in complexes similar to detention centers, sharing cramped spaces with inadequate facilities. Some report needing to walk two hours to reach a bus stop. Additionally, the cost of phone credit prevents many from keeping in touch with their families, exacerbating mental health issues in a ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>ss=”yoast-text-mark”>f=”https://asrc.org.au/2024/10/17/people-held-on-nauru-moved-into-community-and-face-further-challenges/”>community where 22% already suffer from serious mental conditions.

Lessons from Nauru

The Nauru Detention Center serves as a cautionary tale against penalizing asylum-seekers. In the U.K., former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s goal of >stopping small boat crossings and perceived successes in Australia in reducing irregular arrivals have contributed to the belief that such systems work. However, beyond significant human rights concerns, the costs of maintaining the Nauru Detention Center are astronomical—approximately $573,000 per person each year, according to a 2019 report by Save the Children, Get Up!, and the ASRC. Current opinions and developments indicate a failure to learn from Australia’s mistakes, with scholars criticizing the government for “seeking to enact cruel policies for populist political gain.”

– Beatriz Cicci

Beatriz is based in London, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Urgent Humanitarian Aid for Africa’s Flooding Crisis

Africa’s Flooding CrisisSevere floods are damaging communities across Africa, displacing families, submerging entire villages and damaging critical infrastructure. The 2024 rainy season has caused Africa’s flooding crisis and countries like Chad, Niger, Nigeria and South Sudan endure some of the worst impacts, with communities suffering from destroyed homes, lost livelihoods and rising food insecurity. In response, several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are working swiftly to deliver life-saving resources such as food, shelter and medical care.

The Scope of the Crisis

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reports that floods in 2024 have affected 7.1 million people across the Sahel region. The death toll and number of injuries from Africa’s flooding crisis have risen sharply, with 1,526 people reported dead and 4,499 others injured so far this year.

The relentless rainfall has destroyed more than 639,000 homes, affecting 645 schools and 169 health facilities across the region. In South Sudan alone, nearly 380,000 people have been forced to flee as floods submerge entire villages, leaving families without shelter or basic resources. Chad remains the worst-hit country, with 1.9 million people affected by the flooding.

Economic and Health Impacts

Agriculture, a vital economic driver in many African regions, has been severely impacted by the flooding. In Chad, the natural disaster has wiped out 880,000 acres of farmland and killed nearly 70,000 cattle. This has intensified hunger risks in a country where 3.4 million people already face acute food insecurity. Nigeria has also suffered catastrophic losses, with more than 300,000 acres of farmland destroyed. The loss of crops exacerbates food insecurity and undermines economic stability in regions heavily reliant on agriculture as a primary source of income.

The floods have also triggered hazardous health conditions, especially in displacement camps where overcrowding and inadequate sanitation are contributing to the spread of waterborne diseases. In July 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 1,094 cases of cholera in Nigeria alone. Meanwhile, in South Sudan, by September 2024, up to 400 children per week were being hospitalized for severe malaria. The scale of the crisis underscores the urgent need for coordinated aid efforts to help displaced communities and rebuild essential health infrastructure, restoring stability to affected regions.

IFRC

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is actively supporting flood-stricken communities in Chad, Niger, Nigeria and South Sudan. Red Cross teams are distributing essential aid, including shelter, food and sanitation facilities, to those affected by the floods. The organization has also launched a relief fund to help flood victims, providing essential supplies and tackling disease risks in overcrowded camps. Efforts include distributing mosquito nets and hygiene kits to prevent malaria and cholera outbreaks. This protects vulnerable communities from additional health threats caused by the floods.

UNICEF’s WASH Programs

UNICEF is ramping up its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programs across Africa, delivering crucial support to flood-affected communities. In Chad, UNICEF responded swiftly within the first 48 hours of the floods by constructing latrines for 2,200 people and restoring water points for 3,000 individuals. Additionally, the team distributed essential household items to 1,000 people. It also offered therapeutic food to children younger than 5 years old to address immediate nutrition needs.

In Nigeria, UNICEF is partnering with local authorities to register 5,000 households for emergency cash distributions to support those in urgent need. Teams are distributing water purification tablets, setting up portable toilets and running hygiene campaigns to keep families safe from waterborne diseases.

The World Food Programme

After floods submerged 50% of Maiduguri, Nigeria, the World Food Programme (WFP) swiftly set up food kitchens in four camps. These kitchens provide flood-affected families with nutritious meals, including rice and beans, as they seek refuge from their homes. WFP is also delivering emergency food and cash support to Chad and Niger. This critical aid helps families meet their urgent food and nutrition needs while they work to rebuild their lives.

Building Resilience for Long-Term Recovery

Africa’s flooding crisis highlights an urgent call for both immediate aid and sustainable recovery initiatives that can help communities withstand future disasters. As Bob Kitchen, Vice President for Emergencies at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), explains, “Anticipatory action is crucial to how we respond to climate shocks. It enables us to provide earlier and targeted assistance to help populations caught up in the vicious cycle of poverty, conflict and displacement challenges” heightened by climate instability.

While immediate aid response is essential, long-term recovery plans are equally crucial for sustainable change. In partnership with the WFP in Nigeria, the African Development Bank has proposed a $1 billion infrastructure recovery plan for Africa, prioritizing flood-resistant roads and reinforced housing to withstand future disasters. Indeed, these recovery efforts prioritize sustainable agriculture and stronger health care systems to help communities fully recover and better withstand future flooding. Ultimately, these resilience measures are vital to reducing the long-term impact of natural disasters in impoverished African communities.

– Nour Mostafa

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

Photo: Flickr

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Crisis and Humanitarian Needs in the DRC

Crisis and Humanitarian Needs in the DRCThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a prolonged crisis where humanitarian aid alone is insufficient for lasting peace. Decades of armed conflict have destabilized the nation, displacing millions and thwarting sustained development efforts. With nearly 7 million people internally displaced, the complexity of delivering aid intensifies.

Corruption and Humanitarian Needs in the DRC

Corrupt governmental structures lead to a misappropriation of funds that hinder its effectiveness. This erodes public trust and complicates the implementation of future aid programs. Doner countries often hesitate to channel funds through government systems due to concerns over corruption, opting instead for parallel structures that can diminish local capacity and autonomy. DRC’s economy is reliant on foreign aid rather than fostering self-sustaining growth through industrialization or agricultural development.

Aid is directed toward immediate humanitarian needs, for example, food and water. The DRC faces environmental issues that have been exacerbated by climate change, which can further complicate development efforts. The degradation of natural resources due to conflict and poor governance limits opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. The country’s biodiversity is under threat from exploitation by armed groups and the impacts of climate change, thereby increasing socioeconomic divides.

Strategic Interventions for Stability and Peace

At a United Nations (U.N.) Security Council meeting, Bintou Keita, Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Head of the U.N. Stabilisation Mission there (MONUSCO) reported a dire security situation despite ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Keita highlighted violent retaliation by armed groups in South Kivu’s Fizi and Uvira territories, leading to increased population displacement, particularly in North Kivu and Ituri, due to actions by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

Trine Heimerback, representing Norway, pointed out that illegal exploitation of natural resources funds armed conflicts, reduces national revenue and causes civilian harm. She raised concerns about child labor in mining and the exploitation of women, underscoring the necessity for regional cooperation to tackle these ongoing issues. Heimerback advocated for implementing the 2021 Great Lakes Region Workshop on Natural Resources recommendations. She also emphasized that MONUSCO’s effectiveness hinges on a transition strategy prioritizing civilian protection and argued that achieving stability in the DRC goes beyond military efforts. Heimerback called for including civil society, local leaders, women and youth in stabilization and dialogue efforts, tailoring these processes to actual conditions rather than rigid schedules.

Need for Regional Cooperation in DRC

At a U.N. meeting, delegates highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in stabilizing the DRC. Brazil’s representative, João Genésio De Almeida Filho, praised the collaborative military efforts between the FARDC and the UPDF, noting enhanced cross-border partnerships with Rwanda. Brazil proudly contributed to the MONUSCO by appointing its distinguished officers as Force Commanders, which, De Almeida Filho suggested, could help create more favorable conditions for regional stability.

Representing Ghana and Kenya, Gabon’s delegate expressed concerns over the DRC being a “victim of its abundant mineral resources,” pinpointing the exploitation of these resources by armed groups as a significant factor in ongoing instability. Furthermore, he supported the DRC Government’s National Strategic Plan for the Exploitation and Certification of Mineral Resources and called for the implementation of sanctions against those involved in the illegal trafficking of these resources, underscoring the need for effective measures to combat the financing of conflicts through resource exploitation.

Local Capacities for Sustainable Development

Local community empowerment is essential for fostering self-sufficiency and sustainable peace in the DRC. By strengthening local governance and institutions, communities gain control over decision-making processes, thereby enhancing accountability. Additionally, promoting economic self-sufficiency through microfinance programs and vocational training helps individuals develop sustainable livelihoods and reduces their vulnerability to recruitment by armed groups.

Sustainable Land Management and Community Ownership

The Congolese government has launched the Sustainable Land Use Programme to promote food self-sufficiency through strategic land management. This program involves local communities in decision-making about land usage, addressing deforestation and environmental degradation and enhancing food security. Community Forest Concessions (CFCs) grant local communities collective control over their ancestral lands, allowing them to manage forests sustainably and benefit from their resources while preserving the environment.

In South Kivu, 23 communities have received CFCLs, enabling them to negotiate directly with external entities seeking to exploit forest resources. This initiative fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members. Additionally, the OPEC Fund for International Development has provided significant funding to improve rural infrastructure and access to clean water, essential for food security and community health. The International Rescue Committee supports recovery efforts by providing vital services that facilitate community rebuilding after conflicts, emphasizing local engagement in these processes.

Looking Ahead

Achieving sustained peace in the DRC may require a nuanced approach beyond traditional humanitarian aid. Indeed, empowering local communities through sustainable development initiatives may help to foster self-sufficiency and resilience. By enhancing local governance and promoting economic independence, communities could actively shape their futures, reducing vulnerability to conflict. Furthermore, enhanced collaboration between the Congolese government and international organizations can potentially dismantle exploitative practices and address the root causes of instability.

– Hannah Ravariere-Moakes

Hannah is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Charities Operating in Haiti

Charities Operating in HaitiSince Jan. 2024, gang violence in Haiti has killed at least 3,661 people, reports the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Gangs are reportedly recruiting children and destroying Haitian agriculture while committing widespread sexual violence against women. The United Nations (U.N.) World Food Program (WFP) reports that half the population faces acute hunger due to displacement and destruction from the violence. Charitable organizations are playing a critical role in mitigating hunger and poverty in Haiti under these devastating circumstances.

Poverty in Haiti

Haiti ranks as the poorest country in Latin America and the Caribbean and suffers from some of the highest rates of income inequality worldwide, with more than six in 10 people living in poverty. The nation’s history features persistent political instability and significant natural disasters. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries, which constitute a fifth of Haiti’s GDP, employ nearly half of the labor force. However, agricultural productivity faces severe constraints due to inadequate access to technology and credit, along with substandard road and irrigation infrastructure. Additionally, post-harvest losses are considerable, often due to insufficient storage and processing facilities.

3 Charities Operating in Haiti

  1. CARE International. CARE International began its operations in Haiti in 1954 as a global charity focused on addressing the root causes of poverty, particularly gender inequality, which disproportionately drives women into poverty. The organization played a pivotal role during Haiti’s 2010 Cholera outbreak by providing clean water services and supporting local hospitals. Following the devastating earthquake in Aug. 2021, CARE provided food, shelter, hygiene and sanitation assistance. In response to recent violence, the organization has urged the international community to deliver essential humanitarian aid to combat poverty in Haiti and collaborates with local authorities to provide support wherever possible.
  2. Haiti Children. Haiti Children, established in 1994, supports disadvantaged, orphaned and disabled children in Haiti. The organization runs several programs to alleviate poverty and enhance children’s lives. For example, through the Haiti Children Feeding Programme it provides meals to 3,000 children annually. In 2024, Haiti Children distributed 2 million meals and created 141 jobs. The organization underscores the urgency of supporting children, especially following recent reports that gangs are recruiting children amid the ongoing violence.
  3. Haiti Foundation Against Poverty. Founded in 2007, the ‘Haiti Foundation Against Poverty’ aims to dissociate Haiti from poverty by providing health care, education and creating jobs. The charity has launched several projects to reduce poverty in Haiti. A significant initiative is the ‘Hope House,’ a care center for malnourished, injured and orphaned infants and toddlers.

Looking Ahead

Humanitarian aid could be crucial in ending the gang violence across the region. The continued support of charities operating in Haiti is similarly important, to not only directly support the people of Haiti but also to raise awareness of the urgent situation in the country. While the work of charities is incredibly impactful, humanitarian assistance from organizations and countries with more substantial resources could greatly benefit the people of Haiti.

– Joshua Marriott

Joshua is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr