Archive for category: Humanitarian Aid

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Everything To Know About Poverty in El Salvador

Poverty in El SalvadorNestled along the Pacific coast of Central America, El Salvador is a middle-income country home to around 6 million people. Since the establishment of a republican government in 1992, following a decade-long civil war, widespread gang violence and economic turmoil have plagued the country. Nonetheless, poverty rates have consistently declined by a total of 14% from 2000 to 2023, suggesting that El Salvador is trending upwards.

“The world’s coolest dictator,” Nayib Bukele, is attempting to transform El Salvador into a burgeoning digital hub, with Google announcing plans to open offices there in 2024. However, even during this wave of digitization and Bukele’s crackdown on organized crime, poverty in El Salvador remains a major problem.

As of 2023, 30.3% of the population lives in poverty, while 40% of the population lives in a situation of vulnerability. This is everything to know about poverty in El Salvador.

Everything To Know About Poverty in El Salvador

  • The COVID-19 Pandemic Impacted Poverty: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated economic conditions for many living in poverty. The poorest households lost between $90 to $100 of monthly income during the pandemic, and have yet to recover these wages. Furthermore, the likelihood of falling into poverty grew from 14.4% to 20% during the pandemic and has not decreased since.
  • Changing Weather Patterns are Worsening Poverty: In 2024, heavy flooding interfered with construction and public investment projects, slowing economic growth in El Salvador. The flooding forced almost 4,000 people into shelters and interfered with small-scale agriculture and fishing. This placed the poorest Salvadorans at great risk of food insecurity. Experts estimate that a severe natural disaster in El Salvador could potentially double the number of people living in extreme poverty.
  • Bitcoin and Digitization is Still Inequitable: El Salvador invested heavily in digital projects in order to spark economic growth—adopting Bitcoin as the official currency in 2021—but these investments have not reached some of the most impoverished and rural segments of society. El Salvador ranks last in broadband access among Latin American and Caribbean countries. Additionally, automation threatens the jobs of seven out of 10 El Salvadorans working in poverty, showing the limitations of technological development.
  • Job Opportunities are Poor, Particularly for Women: Job inactivity is acute, as 1.7 million Salvadorans are not seeking a job, while women in El Salvador suffer some of the highest inactivity rates in all of Latin America. Additionally, working age women (ages 20 to 44) suffer higher poverty rates than men, and the gap in these rates is still growing.
  • The Urban-rural Divide Persists: Rural populations experience significantly worse income and job opportunities versus urban populations, as well as access to services such as clean water or sanitation. The extremely poor in rural areas make just $31 per month, while the non-poor in urban areas make $710 per month on average—a massive discrepancy.
  • Education is a Major Hurdle: Salvadorans complete an average of 7.3 years of schooling, but these numbers are much worse for rural areas, at only 5.6 years. Children living in poverty have the lowest rates of literacy and school attendance. Education is a very effective pathway out of poverty, as poverty rates drop to 16% with secondary schooling and only 5% with a university education, but it unfortunately remains inaccessible to many.
  • Remittances Underlie the Salvadoran Economy: El Salvador was in the top 10 countries in the world for the highest flow of remittances in 2023, and the government recently created an e-wallet to help make remittance transfers easier. Salvadorans make up the fourth largest immigrant group in the United States, so much of the money being sent to El Salvador is earned by workers in the U.S. However, remittances can discourage formal employment, meaning a reliance on them could become an obstacle to growth.

Solutions

CLOC-Vía Campesina-El Salvador, a grassroots advocacy group representing peasants, small farmers, indigenous people and other disadvantaged groups, fights for the rural poor in El Salvador. It is tied to the global La Vía Campesina movement, which has connected peasants around the world in a struggle for food sovereignty and security since 1993. CLOC-Vía Campesina-El Salvador is calling on the government for greater credit and funding to rural farmers, phytosanitary programs to eliminate screwworms and integration of rural farmers into local markets. 

The Salvadoran American Humanitarian Foundation (SAHF) operates out of Miami in tandem with its Salvadoran sister group, FUSAL, to combat poverty in El Salvador. The groups focus on childhood development and malnutrition, educational disparities and natural disaster relief. In 2023, they sent an astounding $43 million in humanitarian goods to El Salvador, including glasses, food, wheelchairs, blankets, medicine and oral rehydration packets, which reached more than 100,000 people.

What Is Next for El Salvador?

Although these challenges to ending poverty in El Salvador remain, the country is making major strides towards poverty reduction. Compared to Latin American countries with similar income levels, El Salvador has some of the lowest poverty rates, and income inequality in El Salvador is among the lowest in all of Latin America. Additionally, the country has begun to manage its debt and spending effectively, which qualifies El Salvador to receive a $120 million loan from the IMF. This funding will allow the government to begin addressing some structural causes behind poverty, such as corruption, weak access to credit and low employment. Compared to its peers, El Salvador is on the right track to eradicating poverty, but they still have a lot of work left to get there.

– Max Turnacioglu

Max is based in Bethesda, MD, USA and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Freeze on US Foreign Aid to Mexico

Foreign Aid to MexicoThe U.S. freeze on humanitarian aid has left many of Mexico’s private humanitarian organizations defunded. In Tijuana, Baja California, centers for migrants, low-income and houseless folk are experiencing trouble. A Mexican city so close to the U.S. is experiencing such a different reality than the U.S. city of San Diego. These organizations provided help with job search, medical care, psychological care, food, childcare and shelter. According to a report from inewsource, the freeze severely cut funding to dozens of programs that aided Mexico’s vulnerable population.

The Bigger Picture

Though the U.S. may only spend 1% of its federal budget on foreign aid, the impact is still strong. By withdrawing foreign aid to Mexico, the U.S. has hurt a lot of Mexico’s humanitarian organizations, ultimately hurting the people that are most in need. Some more examples of Mexican organizations affected by the freeze in foreign aid are Casa Frida, Comunidad AVES, Peace Oasis of the Holy Spirit Amparito shelter, Asylum Access Mexico and the Federal Mission Commission for Refugee Assistance. All of these organizations help asylum seekers and refugees with ranges of services.

Conversely, remittances from the U.S. to Mexico continue and are a strong source of foreign aid to Mexico. Remittances often work by Mexican immigrants working in the U.S. and sending the money they earn to their families back at home for a better means of life. Normal workers are leading this cash flow into Mexico, not the government, and they are not suitable for institutional humanitarian programs.

The Importance of Foreign Aid

Inequality threatens national security. According to the American Foreign Service Association, strategic foreign assistance can prevent instability, reduce the need for costly military interventions and strengthen global partnerships. It is never good to have one nation struggling so much, as it can lead to a potential uprising. Foreign aid has been a proven form of violence prevention.

One-third of Mexico’s population (or 36.3%) lived in poverty in 2022 and an additional 7.1% of Mexico’s population lived in extreme poverty. This is more than 40% of the population.

Given Mexico’s large population in poverty, foreign aid to Mexico is incredibly useful for the country. Mexico has used foreign aid in sectors like security and justice, economic development, humanitarian assistance and border security. An example of how foreign aid was used is in the Merida Initiative. This initiative fell under the security and justice sector and now La Merida is one of the safest places in Mexico. Foreign aid is important to Mexico.

Mexico’s Foreign Aid Outlook

Political analysts suggest that under their new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico may start investing more in regional humanitarian efforts, further positioning itself as a regional leader in Central America. Oxford Analytica reports that this shift could lead to increased support for international aid programs. Though the U.S. may not be sending foreign aid to Mexico for the time being, other countries are still offering their support like France, Japan, Uruguay, Chile and Spain.

The freeze on U.S. foreign aid to Mexico has led to widespread funding cuts for humanitarian organizations that support vulnerable populations. While remittances and other nations continue to provide support, the absence of the structured assistance that U.S. aid once offered is felt. With poverty affecting over 40% of Mexico’s population, the lack of foreign aid to Mexico hurts people in need. As Mexico navigates this change, the long-term effects of reduced U.S. support remain to be seen.

– Andrea Roji

Andrea is based in Chula Vista, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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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