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3 Legislative Moves & Global Poverty in 2026

Global Poverty in 2026Poverty has emerged as one of the most challenging human rights issues and though it is improving in many regions, areas such as sub-Saharan Africa have seen declines. While it is traditionally believed that poverty naturally eases as a nation’s economy and GDP increase, this is not always the case. While an expanding economy does alleviate poverty, many other factors persist, such as education and discrimination. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), countries can adopt numerous legislative measures to address poverty, including land tenure rights, social protection systems and rural employment. Therefore, it is not only necessary for a government to expand markets and support investment, but also to pass legislation specifically aimed at improving the conditions that allow poverty to arise. Here is what some countries around the world are doing to legislate poverty eradication:

$16 Billion Rural Aid in Vietnam

Vietnam is creating legislation to lower global poverty in 2026. On December 11, 2025, the National Assembly passed a resolution to provide unprecedented funds for rural development until 2030. The move follows years of efforts since 2021, which by 2025 have already reduced the number of needy and near-poor households by 52.49%. In addition, the government built new housing in areas with ethnic minority populations and brought communes up to environmental safety standards.

The new resolution intends to follow in the successful footsteps of what came before. Notably, the program aims to reduce gender inequality, which is essential to improving the lives of impoverished individuals. According to the National Library of Medicine, there is a link between poverty and equity and therefore, addressing gender discrimination and inequality goes a long way.

Basic Income Grants in South Africa

In South Africa, the two richest individuals hold as much wealth as 50% of the population and the country has the highest Gini coefficient, a measure of social inequality, among all countries. This makes poverty a central issue that the government must confront. One political topic that has gained momentum recently is the implementation of basic income grants (BIGs).

Countries such as Namibia and India have introduced similar programs and shown increases in economic activity, nutrition levels, school attendance and even independence for certain groups, such as women. During COVID-19, South Africa carried out a BIG program and the results were effective. South Africa’s Department of Social Development (DSD) even reported a decrease in poverty at the Food Poverty Line, the lowest income possible to satisfy one’s nutritional needs. 

The DSD has ordered a report on the possibility of such a program in South Africa and concluded that its COVID-19 policy should be continued and perhaps even the workup to a full-scale BIG program. While critics worry that the program will crowd out other spending or create an unsustainable fiscal burden, a future program could transform the fight against poverty.

Bangladesh’s Family Card

Recently, Bangladesh launched a new program to transform welfare services. Launched on March 10, 2026, the program shifts the focus from individual to household, given that poverty is experienced “collectively.” Accordingly, each household will have one card issued in the name of the female head. 

The government has set ambitious goals, hoping to provide every citizen with a card by 2030. However, not everyone qualifies. Some example criteria include belonging to a marginalized group or being in a vulnerable household. This ensures that not just anybody receives these government benefits, only those who truly need them. 

Overall Picture

Governments around the world are discovering that they can’t just let market forces determine the outcome of poverty in their countries; they must enact specific legislation to address it. As Joseph Stiglitz noted: “Much of the inequality that exists today is a result of government policy.” This is exactly what Vietnam, South Africa and Bangladesh are doing, pushing for policies that help those who need it most, a sign that the world is beginning to confront global poverty in 2026.

– Ben Anderson

Ben is based in Madrid, Spain and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Youth Development in Romania: Policies and Opportunities

Youth Development in RomaniaRomania’s young people face serious barriers in education and employment. Youth unemployment remains high compared to adult unemployment, and many young people do not complete secondary education. Since 2011, an estimated 450,000 children have dropped out of school before finishing middle school, and more than 15% of those ages 18 to 24 have not completed the eighth grade. These issues are more severe in rural areas and among ethnic minorities such as the Romani population.

Without adequate support, these trends can limit access to economic opportunities and civic engagement for young Romanians, slowing both personal development and the country’s long-term growth.

National Programs Supporting Youth

Romania is expanding national initiatives to support its young population. The National Youth Strategy (2024–2027) outlines goals to promote education, increase civic participation and reduce unemployment for people ages 15 to 35. This strategy helps guide policy, funding and program development across government agencies.

The Child Guarantee Action Plan seeks to ensure that all children, particularly those under 18, have access to quality education, health care and nutrition. The plan addresses poverty and social exclusion by focusing services on those most in need.

Programs such as School After School offer tutoring and extracurricular activities outside of regular hours to help students remain engaged and build skills in art, technology and sports. Together, these initiatives aim to strengthen youth development in Romania by expanding access to educational and personal development opportunities.

International Support and Partnerships

Romania’s youth development efforts are supported by international initiatives. The U.N. Youth Delegate Program provides young leaders opportunities to represent Romania in U.N. discussions, amplifying youth voices on human rights, peace and sustainable development.

The Youth2030 Strategy encourages countries to include young people in national development plans and promote access to education, health care, employment and civic participation.

The Global Initiative for Decent Jobs for Youth promotes gender-equal employment and works with governments and the private sector to align training programs with labor market needs. These partnerships support Romania’s efforts to expand quality education and job opportunities for young people, particularly in underserved communities.

Proposed Solutions for the Future

To further advance youth development, Romania can expand training programs that teach communication, digital literacy and professional skills, helping young people become more competitive in the job market.

Improving access to quality education and employment opportunities in rural areas would help ensure that more young people benefit from national growth. Strengthening mentorship programs, community initiatives and career guidance services may help reduce school dropout rates and better prepare youth for civic and economic participation.

Prioritizing these approaches could contribute to a more inclusive and resilient workforce while addressing economic and social disparities.

Looking Ahead

Youth development in Romania remains both a social and economic priority. National strategies, community programs and international partnerships work together to address unemployment, reduce early school dropouts and increase youth participation. Continued investment in education, job skills and civic engagement can support long-term stability and inclusive growth. Strengthening youth development efforts may help Romania build a more stable and adaptable society prepared for future challenges.

– Anaisha Kundu

Anaisha is based in Skillman, New Jersey, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Serbia

Fragility and Rule of Law in SerbiaRule of law aims to delimit arbitrary power by ensuring governments must follow the same legal standards as citizens. In Serbia, leaders have repeatedly tested this principle. Nevertheless, Serbia’s post-authoritarian recovery, rooted in the stability of potential European integration, produced a rule of law that drew fair and equitable governance. However, since 2012, Serbia has faced burgeoning fragility across state institutions and a shrinking of the nation’s civic space. The following article on fragility and rule of law in Serbia highlights the impact this has on the country’s poorest.

From Recovery To Institutional Fragility

Serbia’s post-Yugolsav trajectory has moved through three distinct phases. War and international isolation defined the 1990s under the authoritarian rule of President Milošević. However, the 2000s brought political openings and rapid recovery through stronger international ties such as the EU Stabilization and Association Agreement, which helped anchor domestic reforms.

This momentum stalled after the 2008 financial crisis, as public confidence in EU accession waned. This shift aligned with the rise of the Serbian Progressive Party (SPS). In 2014, the SPS’s ascent to power under Aleksandar Vučić triggered a measurable decline in democratic performance and institutional independence. International bodies, including the OSCE have repeatedly raised concerns that the centralization of power and political pressure on institutions is producing corruption. This corruption has undercut the state’s legal accountability and exacerbated poverty for marginalized groups.

How Fragility and Rule of Law in Serbia Impacts Poverty

Serbia’s at-risk-of-poverty rate stands at around 20%, with nearly one-fifth of the population receiving an income below the poverty line. The government continues to highlight GDP growth, which grew 3.9% in 2024, as markers of success. Nevertheless, these gains have not alleviated Serbia’s poverty, partly because weakening rule of law has distorted how authorities wield state power and distribute support.

Since 2014, corruption allegations and institutional deregulation have hollowed-out watchdog bodies, limiting civic oversight and weakening the delivery of public resources. The geographies of poverty remain most concentrated in the south and east, where it affects more than 27% of residents. The region counted around 77,000 unemployed in 2025. A slowed inflow of FDI amid failing investor confidence has accelerated factory closures. Serbia’s Association of Free and Independent Trade Unions warn the shutdowns “have only just begun.”

A major turning point came with the collapse of a newly built train station in 2024. The incident triggered a series of anti-government protests. Protesters blamed the collapse on corruption and the breakdown of rule of law. Student-led demonstrations swiftly grew into a national movement, exposing Serbia’s political fragility and exacerbating concerns from foreign investors. The economy felt the impact immediately, producing a rise in job insecurity and pushing households closer to poverty.

Failing Measures

Serbia spends 19.5% of GDP on social protection. However, most funding goes toward broad social insurance rather than targeted anti-poverty support. In reality, Serbia spends only 5% of GDP on program directly aimed at poverty reduction. Opposition figures argue officials use the inflated number to portray success while masking gaps in direct support.

For many families the support is not enough. An unemployed family of three receives 22,000 dinars per month in cash social assistance, far below the estimated 56,868 dinars that make up Serbia’s minimum consumer basket.

The Future of Fragility and Rule of Law in Serbia

Despite the declining rule of law, there are signs that Serbia’s future trajectory may be shifting. The 2024 protests evolved into a more organized political force in 2025, whose push for an early election has now been announced for 2026.

Civil society has also grown more influential. NGO groups such as the A11 Initiative for Economic and Social Rights argue leaders have governed Serbia through short-term, selective measures rather than sustained, rights-based policy. This has resulted in a system that A11 states keeps marginalized people “just enough above water to survive,” rather than reducing poverty in meaningful terms.

– Rory Wesson

Rory is based in London, the United Kingdom and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Kenya is Using Satellite Data to Settle Land Rights

satellite data to settle land rightsIn Kenya’s informal settlements, where more than half of urban residents live without formal land titles, a quiet shift is transforming how land rights are established. Through partnerships between the government and international organizations, Kenya is using satellite imagery and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to map and formalize land ownership, unlocking economic opportunities for millions of residents who have lived for decades without legal proof of ownership.

Mapping the Unmapped

Kenya’s use of satellite data to settle land rights begins with remote sensing technologies tested in regions like Kajiado County. Researchers developed smart sketch mapping systems combined with UAV technology to capture high-resolution images of informal settlements. According to a study published in the journal Remote Sensing in January 2020, these methods achieved ground sample distances of about six centimeters, offering unprecedented detail for land boundary mapping.

A fit-for-purpose approach used in Makueni County in 2017 showed that field data collection could be quick and affordable. As reported by GIM International, two surveyors collected data for about 40 parcels in six hours using handheld devices displaying satellite imagery on mobile screens. Villagers walked the perimeters of their land while GPS antennas recorded boundary points, creating a participatory process that directly links people to polygons on digital maps.

The KISIP Initiative

The Kenya Informal Settlements Improvement Project (KISIP) is the most comprehensive effort to formalize land tenure in urban areas. Launched in 2011 through a partnership between the Government of Kenya, the World Bank, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency and the Agence Française de Développement, KISIP has benefited more than 1.4 million residents.

According to the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, KISIP operates in about 40 counties and focuses on land tenure regularization through planning, surveying and issuing ownership documents.

The project’s second phase, which began in March 2021, targets informal settlements located on uncontested public land. As People Daily reported in July 2025, KISIP2 has prepared more than 1,470 titles in Nyeri County alone, with 540 already issued.

Economic Transformation

The economic impact of secure land tenure goes far beyond property ownership. Title deeds can be used as collateral for bank loans, enabling residents to invest in permanent housing and small businesses. A 2019 Capital Blog article noted that residents of Nyalenda in Kisumu County used their new titles to access bank loans after receiving secure tenure through KISIP.

In November 2024, the Cabinet waived Sh12.3 billion in interest on land settlement loans, demonstrating the government’s commitment to unlocking land-based economic potential. According to Capital FM, the waiver will benefit thousands of settlers in 520 settlement schemes across 26 counties, helping them obtain title deeds and use them as collateral for investment.

Peter Kagai, an 80-year-old farmer from Kamuiri colonial village in Nyeri County, told People Daily that owning a title deed improved his life significantly, allowing him to secure loans to educate his children and invest in his farm.

Technology Meets Community

U.N.-Habitat’s Social Tenure Domain Model tool has proven effective in participatory mapping. In the Kwa Bulo settlement in Mombasa County, more than 1,000 Certificates of Occupancy were issued through participatory enumerations and mapping approaches. According to U.N.-Habitat, perceived tenure security led to increased economic activities, including new retail businesses and construction projects that created employment opportunities for youth.

Looking Forward

Kenya’s use of satellite data to settle land rights represents a model for other developing nations addressing informal land tenure. The combination of affordable satellite imagery, UAV technology and community-led mapping offers a scalable solution that respects local knowledge while providing legally recognized documentation.

As Flying Labs Kenya reported in October 2024, organizations continue expanding drone applications across humanitarian and development sectors, including land tenure mapping in counties like Kajiado.

With its ability to collect data quickly and cost-effectively, the technology is well-suited for large-scale land formalization programs. The success of these initiatives shows that technology-driven solutions, combined with partnerships and community participation, can address historical land injustices and create pathways to economic opportunity. For millions of Kenyans in informal settlements, satellite data and digital mapping tools are becoming essential to securing their future.

– Jawad Noori

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

Photo: Pexels

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The MEGOBARI Act

The MEGOBARI ActIn the Georgian language, the word megobari (მეგობარი) means “friend.” In the proposed U.S. federal laws, it stands for the Mobilizing and Enhancing Georgia’s Options for Building Accountability, Resilience, and Independence Act.

The MEGOBARI Act

The primary purpose of the MEGOBARI Act is “to counter the influence of the Chinese Communist Party, the Iranian Regime, and the Russian Federation in the nation of Georgia” and to support Georgia’s constitutionally stated aspirations and the wishes of the overwhelming majority of its citizens to become a member of the European Union (EU) and NATO.

The bill also aims to continue supporting Georgia’s capacity to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity from further Russian aggression or encroachment and to promote accountability by imposing swift consequences on individuals who directly and knowingly engage in actions or policies that significantly undermine democratic standards. The Act is temporary, set to expire five years after its date of enactment. A total of 16 representatives and two delegates, of which 10 are democrats and 8 republicans, have cosponsored the bill.

Policy and Diplomatic Reevaluation

  • Suspend the U.S.–Georgia Strategic Partnership Commission until democratic standards are met.
  • Review all foreign and security assistance if Georgia shifts away from EU accession.
  • Reduce trade ties with Russia and support global anti-Russian sanctions.
  • Continue backing civil society, democratic values, anti-corruption measures and freedoms of assembly, association and expression.

Reports and Strategy

  • Russian/Chinese Influence Report: Within 180 days, assess Russian intelligence and Chinese involvement in Georgia.
  • Five-Year U.S.–Georgia Strategy: Within 90 days, outline funding, tools and support for civil society and independent media and reassess Georgia’s priority status for U.S. aid.

Sanctions

  • Blocking Euro-Atlantic Integration: Sanctions on officials (and families) engaged in corruption, violence or intimidation.
  • Undermining Security: Sanctions on persons threatening Georgia’s sovereignty and stability.
  • Broader Corruption: Sanctions for significant acts of corruption.
  • Sanction Tools: Visa bans, visa revocations and property or asset blocking in the United States.

Conditional Assistance

  • U.S. aid is contingent on Georgia’s progress toward democracy and Euro-Atlantic integration.
  • If progress is shown, the U.S. will expand exchanges, enhance military cooperation and provide defensive equipment.

The Georgian Parliament’s View on the Act

The Georgian Parliament has strongly opposed the MEGOBARI Act, calling it flawed, biased, hostile and a violation of Georgia’s sovereignty. Some opposition parties, however, view it favorably as genuine U.S. support.

Connection to Poverty

Weak governance, corruption or political instability can reduce economic growth, discourage investment and lower the effectiveness of public services. If implemented well, the accountability and transparency brought by the MEGOBARI Act could lead to better governance of public resources, such as social welfare, infrastructure and essential services, which would help reduce poverty.

The Act also requires a strategy to assess whether Georgia should remain the second-highest recipient of United States funding in the Europe and Eurasia region. Foreign aid or investment tied to the Act might require democratic reforms, potentially directing resources toward underserved areas. Sanctions imposed under the Act do not apply to transactions for humanitarian assistance, including agricultural commodities, food, medicine and medical devices. This ensures that sanctions do not impede critical humanitarian needs.

A major focus of the Act is combating significant corruption in Georgia. While not directly related to poverty reduction, fighting corruption is often a prerequisite for effective economic governance and equitable distribution of resources.

Looking Ahead 

By curbing corruption and fostering stability, the Act has the potential to create conditions where poverty is reduced and opportunities for ordinary Georgians can grow. At its core, the MEGOBARI Act offers a hopeful vision: that a stronger democracy can translate into stronger communities.

– Salome Jincharadze

Salome is based in Tbilisi, Georgia and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty, Fragility and the Rule of Law in Cuba

The Rule of Law in CubaPeople have always seen Cuba putting the most vulnerable first. Cuba aimed to achieve a state with no poverty, no unemployment, full literacy, strong education and strong health care. In other words, Cuba aims to be a successful socialist state. However, the socio-economic situation in Cuba today presents an entirely different picture. Today, Cuba is one of the poorest countries in the world with only 1.5% GDP growth between 2016-18, well below the 5% growth needed for sustainable development. The social services system has deteriorated and the employed are not working jobs where they could be most efficient. These factors have all contributed to increased levels of poverty in Cuba. Here is information about fragility and the rule of law in Cuba and how it relates to poverty.

Fragile Rule of Law in Cuba

Fragility of law has contributed significantly to poverty in Cuba. Cuba has high levels of corruption. Systemic failures in enforcing laws ensure that essential resources never reach the people. A lack of transparency has led to people not having any legal recourse to ensure better living and working conditions. The Cuban government also requires any aid coming from international organizations to go through the state agency in charge and work with local actors connected to the state. Therefore, in actuality, international organizations have very little control over how the aid provided is utilized or even where it is allocated. Weak rule of law and limited institutional capacity mean that vulnerable groups (women, people with HIV and the elderly) continue to face stigma and lack equal access to services

Poor Governance and Food Security in Cuba

However, a more pressing issue is bad governance. Poor fiscal policies have led to anemic economic growth and in the last two years the economy contracted from 1.8% in 2022 to -1.9% in 2023.

This contraction is far below the 5% needed for sustainable growth and to create the income needed for the government to provide basic services to the people. Cuba, according to the World Food Program (WHO), spends at least $1.7 billion annually on food imports. This is an increase from $1 billion of food imports in 2017. Weak enforcement of agricultural policies and poor incentives for producers contribute to persistent shortages. It is clear that the needs of the people are not being met. Severe food shortages have led people to rely more on income from outside sources other than the government such as dealing and working on the black market, remittances from outside aid or community networks.

Efforts To Address Poverty

However, there is some hope. Despite restrictions from the Cuban government, organizations such as the World Food Program (WFP) are having some success in providing aid to fight poverty. The WFP has implemented food security programs such as school feeding programs, nutrition education and training for farmers. It also collaborated with local authorities to enhance food systems and social protection mechanisms. These programs have had a noticeable impact on food security in Cuba. The WFP has managed to provide aid to more than 1.3 million people in Cuba through such programs.

Looking Ahead

According to a report by the Cuban Observatory of Human Rights, more than 89% of the Cuban population live in extreme poverty. There is severe inequality, corruption and a lack of basic services that not only increase poverty but sustain it. While there has been some success, without a strong change in policies and an increase in effective governance, the situation is not likely to change. In the end, addressing fragility and the rule of law in Cuba is essential for reducing poverty and ensuring a more equitable future for its citizens.

– Akash Ramaswamy

Akash is based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty Through Bipartisan Action

5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty Through Bipartisan Action As the United States (U.S.) political spotlight beams elsewhere, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is quietly advancing global poverty relief through appropriations, legislation and advocacy that deliver transformative impact abroad. Sen. Chris Coons (D-D.E.), Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-T.X.), Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-P.A.) and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) work across the aisle to sustain investment in global health, food aid and gender equity. Their efforts underscore how U.S. foreign engagement, especially lawmakers supporting global poverty, can reflect both humanitarian values and national interest.

5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty

  1. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.): Champion for Gender Equity. Since 2023, Shaheen has served as Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She co-sponsored the Global HER Act to permanently abolish the Global Gag Rule and reinstate financing for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA). Additionally, in July 2025, Shaheen negotiated with Senators Risch and the administration to secure the release of $75 million in foreign aid, $50 million allocated for Haiti and $25 million for Nigeria, targeted at food and medical help. On April 2, 2025, she convened a Senate Foreign Relations roundtable to examine the ramifications of assistance reductions. She underscored that the cessation of mother and child health programs would undermine advancements in vaccinations, HIV prevention, malaria management, neonatal care and water, sanitation and that USAID’s emergency response framework and significant disease-prevention initiatives were jeopardized.
  2. Sen. Chris Coons (D-D.E.): The Power Player in Foreign Aid. Over the years, Coons has emphasized the importance of critical foreign assistance portfolios, including United States Agency for International Development (USAID), President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund. In early 2025, he proposed a Senate resolution reiterating the strategic role of USAID in national security. On the Senate floor after the 2025 executive freeze of USAID, he cautioned: “Our biggest global competitor…is delighted that we’ve handed them an opportunity to say to communities around the world that we are not a reliable partner.” Coons co-sponsored the Global Child Thrive Act with bipartisan colleagues, demonstrating his enduring commitment to early childhood development internationally. He observed: “With nearly 250 million children in low and middle income countries suffering from poor development…this bill will improve efforts by the U.S. to advance early childhood development policies across the world.”
  3. Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-T.X.): Innovating Aid, Prioritizing Refugees. Castro, a member of the House Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees, is a vocal proponent of refugee initiatives and humanitarian innovation. He co-sponsored the Fostering Innovation in Global Development Act, asserting that it reinstates USAID as a preeminent leader in global development via the promotion of evidence-based programs. He also joined Coons and Fitzpatrick in championing the Global Child Thrive Act, declaring: “To help all kids succeed…it’s never been more important that we show that same commitment on a global scale.” Castro has emphasized refugee displacement and human rights, advocating for augmented humanitarian assistance in situations impacting the Rohingya and Venezuelan communities. In a 2017 House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, Rep. Castro fervently addressed the situation of the Rohingya, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis and the U.S. relief response. Specifically, he noted: “This is an incredible time… in Southeast Asia, the Rohingya have been dispossessed.” Rep. Castro emphasized that the U.S. must do its share to alleviate the severe humanitarian situation that Venezuelans confront at home as they continue to escape tyranny and instability when he co-introduced the AFFECT Human Rights in Venezuela Act in 2022. This act aimed to guarantee that humanitarian assistance was sent directly to Venezuelan migrants and refugees, illustrating Castro’s commitment to aiding displaced individuals.
  4. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.): Conservative Bridge-builder on Aid. Graham, a steadfast advocate for international health financing, has justified initiatives such as the Global Fund and PEPFAR based on national security considerations. He referred to foreign aid as “national security insurance” and endorsed letters supporting PEPFAR and USAID for 2024–25. Even amid partisan debates, Graham helped preserve nearly $5.15 billion in PEPFAR funding for fiscal year 2025, resisting efforts that would have weakened the global HIV/AIDS response.
  5. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-P.A.): Health & Food Security Advocate. Rep. Fitzpatrick has consistently prioritized nutrition and health in foreign aid. As a House Foreign Affairs Committee member, he co-sponsored the Global Child Thrive Act and helped pass it into law. In August 2023, Rep. Fitzpatrick, along with Representatives Blumenauer and Krishnamoorthi, urged the Biden administration to enhance emergency international food assistance, particularly Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), to address escalating world famine. He stated: “Food insecurity affects hundreds of millions of individuals and families worldwide… Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) is proven to save the lives of children lacking access to nutrition.” As one of the most active lawmakers supporting global poverty in the House, Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan cooperation reflects a pragmatic approach to international aid.

Looking Ahead

In turbulent policy times, Sen. Coons, Rep. Castro, Sen. Graham, Rep. Fitzpatrick and Sen. Shaheen form a bipartisan group focused on advancing global poverty relief. Their actions demonstrate that addressing global poverty involves not only compassion, but also policy, stability and international engagement. Through appropriations debates, legislation and continued advocacy, these lawmakers support programs that assist vulnerable communities while aligning with U.S. strategic interests and reinforcing the country’s role in global development.

– Ray Bechara

Ray is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and Rule of Law in Georgia

Rule of Law in GeorgiaIn Tbilisi and beyond, citizens protest for freedoms as state fragility and decline in the rule of law in Georgia threaten democratic progress. The Georgian Dream party, in power since 2012, has drawn strong criticism for weakening democratic institutions and centralizing authority. Critics warn that these moves encourage authoritarianism and weaken public trust.

The government changed laws that infringe upon freedom of expression, assembly and media. It increased penalties for peaceful protests and imposed new restraints on media outlets. Analysts assert that these restrictions conflict with Georgia’s European goals and harm the rule of law in Georgia.

Poverty and Rule of Law: A Linked Threat

Georgia’s absolute poverty rate fell from about 15.6% in 2022 to nearly 11.8% in 2023, lifting roughly 140,000 people out of poverty. Rural areas dropped to 15.6% poverty; urban areas fell to 9.4%. These gains, however, remain fragile where legal protections weaken.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reported that poverty could decline to 11.9% by 2027 if Georgia maintains annual GDP growth of 4.8%. However, the report cautioned that fragility in institutions undermines the sustainability of these gains. Here are five key factors weakening the rule of law in Georgia.

  1. Legislative restriction of expression, assembly and media
  2. Enactment of a foreign agents law targeting NGOs and media with foreign funding
  3. Political control over courts and election bodies
  4. Repression of dissent via fines, arrests and excessive force
  5. Frequent election law changes that diminish oversight

The “Foreign Agents” Law

The Georgian Dream party passed a law requiring media outlets and NGOs with foreign funding to register as organizations serving “foreign interests.” Transparency International Georgia said this law paves “a path to dictatorship” by silencing dissenting voices and transparency advocates.

A Project Linking Rule of Law to Poverty Reduction

UNDP, funded by Germany, implemented the Improving Rule of Law and Access to Justice for All – Phase 1 project in Georgia. The project began in January 2023 and concluded in September 2024. It budgeted about $1.63 million USD and worked with courts, civil society and local governments to improve justice access for rural populations, women and persons with disabilities.

As part of the initiative, UNDP supported the Legal Aid Service in establishing mobile legal clinics, trained 250 legal professionals and helped more than 1,500 vulnerable individuals access legal services. The project also organized outreach campaigns that increased awareness of legal rights among marginalized groups.

Electoral System Instability and Human Rights at Risk

Frequent amendments to election laws weaken oversight and favor the ruling party, according to a European Parliament briefing. Critics also report that law enforcement sometimes applies harsh punishments even in peaceful protests. These practices deepen mistrust among citizens.

Looking Ahead

Georgia faces a critical crossroad: if the rule of law in Georgia continues to decay, poverty reduction may stall and democratic institutions may further weaken. Initiatives like UNDP’s legal aid project show that combining justice reforms with poverty interventions can protect vulnerable people. Georgia’s future depends on strengthening rights, reinforcing institutions and ensuring that laws work for all citizens.

– Salome Jincharadze

Salome is based in Tbilisi, Georgia and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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India’s Forest Rights Act: A Tribal Village’s Success Story

India's Forest Rights ActIndia’s economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty, yet rural and indigenous communities continue to face deep-rooted inequalities. The 2006 Forest Rights Act aimed to address historical injustices by granting land rights to tribal communities, though its impact has been uneven. Pachgaon, a small village in Maharashtra, stands out as a success story. By securing legal rights to their forest land, villagers transformed their economy through a community-run bamboo business—showing how legal recognition and collective action can drive sustainable, inclusive development.

Poverty in India

India, with a population of 1.4 billion, remains a nation of contrasts. About 66% of its people live in rural areas and despite economic growth, 13% still survive on less than $1.90 a day. However, progress is evident—80% of adults now have bank accounts and 92% of children complete primary school, reflecting improved access to financial services and education. Yet, gender disparities persist, with women making up only 20% of the formal workforce, highlighting the ongoing need for more inclusive economic participation.

India’s significant reduction in extreme poverty over the past decade reflects both effective policy interventions and sustained economic growth. The dramatic decline from 16.2% to 2.3% in the national poverty rate—particularly the strong improvements in rural areas—highlights the country’s success in lifting millions out of the harshest conditions. Moreover, the narrowing gap between rural and urban poverty rates suggests a more balanced development approach, helping bridge long-standing regional disparities. While challenges remain, the progress so far offers a strong foundation for further inclusive and equitable growth.

India’s Forest Rights Act

The Forest Rights Act, passed in 2006, is a landmark piece of legislation in India that recognizes the rights of indigenous communities to claim ownership of federally-owned forest land they have traditionally inhabited and depended on. It aims to correct historical injustices by granting legal land titles to forest dwellers who have lived in and protected these areas for generations. 

The Residents of Pachgaon

One community that continues to benefit from the law is the residents of Pachgaon in the Indian state of Maharashtra. Pachgaon’s transformation from a struggling village to a thriving forest-based enterprise is an example of how India’s Forest Rights Act can be successfully implemented. After generations of dispossession under colonial and state control, the local Gond adivasi community used the law to reclaim ownership of 1,006 hectares of forest land in 2012. While many indigenous communities remained unaware of their rights or faced bureaucratic resistance, Pachgaon’s residents—supported by local activists like Vijay Dethe—persistently pursued their claim. Once they secured legal forest rights, the village launched a community-run bamboo business under a gram sabha model, rejecting hierarchy in favor of collective decision-making. 

The Outcome

Pachgaon’s bamboo enterprise has become a cornerstone of the village’s economic revival, generating a profit of 34 million rupees (approximately $400,000) over the past decade—equivalent to around $41,000 per year. This community-run business, established after villagers secured legal rights to 2,500 acres of forest, not only provides steady employment but has also stemmed the tide of migration to urban centers like Gujarat and Karnataka.

Managed democratically by a gram sabha, the profits are reinvested into the community—supporting education, infrastructure and the purchase of additional land for expansion. Even during monsoon seasons, when bamboo harvesting halts, the funds serve to maintain employment through local development projects, ensuring the preservation of economic stability and cultural roots.

The profits have not only provided stable incomes and reduced migration but also funded local development projects, including infrastructure, education and land purchases for business expansion. Pachgaon’s success highlights the transformative power of legal recognition, local leadership and shared ownership in restoring both livelihoods and dignity to tribal communities.

Looking Ahead

While India still faces challenges in achieving equity and full participation for all, examples like Pachgaon demonstrate how legal empowerment and grassroots action can lead to sustainable, locally driven development. As the country continues to grow, scaling such successes could be key to ensuring that progress reaches even its most marginalized citizens.

– Phoebe Guildford

Phoebe is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Soldiers in the Philippines

The Child Soldiers in the Philippines Despite widespread agreement that the use of child soldiers must end, the United Nations (U.N.) reported ongoing violations in dozens of countries in 2024. While 173 countries have ratified the Optional Protocol on the involvement of children in armed conflict, grave violations—including the recruitment and use of child soldiers—persist in conflict zones worldwide. Some countries, like the Philippines, have made significant progress in reducing violations. With support from the U.N., the Philippine government nearly halved its total number of violations and took major steps to address the widespread presence of non-state military groups such as the New People’s Army (NPA), the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and their use of child soldiers in the Philippines.

Non-State Sanctioned Military Groups

Regardless of the year, the NPA has more often than not been responsible for the highest number of violations, reportedly accounting for 40% and 41% of the total in 2022 and 2024, respectively. The majority of the remaining violations were spread somewhat evenly among the other groups, though the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group and the Armed Forces of the Philippines stand out as repeat offenders. As one may notice, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is a state military force, showing the government is not entirely free from blame; however, this group also showed the greatest reduction in violations, dropping from 21 in 2021 to 12 in 2023. In contrast, the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute Group more than quadrupled its violations, rising from two to nine.

The Acts

Overall, the most common and consistent violations were killing and maiming, recruitment and attacks on schools, which together made up just under 95% of total violations in 2024; 43% in killing and maiming, 38% in recruitment and 12% in attacks on schools. The remaining 7% consisted of sexual misconduct, abductions and denial of humanitarian access. The acts were generally split evenly between areas, with one standout case of a disproportionate number (53%) of violations taking place in Mindanao, the second largest of the Philippine islands and one of the most populated islands in the world.

Looking Ahead

In 2021, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.N. signed a strategic plan in order to improve conditions and lower the number of violations of child rights. There are now more than 3,100 trained child protection actors throughout the country. Furthermore, some regions have even established a regional reporting system so that civilians can alert authorities to violations. These, along with the 2019 issuance of the child protection policy by the Philippine police, have started great advances in Philippine child rights, with the data supporting the fact that the plan is showing results and reducing the number of child soldiers in the Philippines.

– Seth Christopher

Seth is based in Baltimore, MD, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr