Archive for category: NGOs

,

The International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy

International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy

Global aid is crucial for all communities, with a particular emphasis on those facing marginalization. A survey conducted in 2021 by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in conjunction with the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative revealed that 109 countries are grappling with extreme poverty. Among them, Sub-Saharan Africa contains 42 countries, a region frequently marginalized globally. When problems such as poverty arise, policymakers implement specific initiatives to eradicate them through public policy implementation.

International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy

The nonprofit International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy is in Washington. The group aims to assist marginalized groups, especially Black communities worldwide. Established in 2009 by two experienced professionals in aid and development, Barbara A. Perkins and Ka Flewellen, the initiative operates under the belief that even small-scale efforts can have far-reaching impacts worldwide.

Perkins was a member of the National Council of Negro Women in 1995 and participated in the Beijing Conference on Women. Flewellen collaborated with women in Cairo on issues such as natural disasters and influencing United States (U.S.) immigration policy affecting women departing from Cairo. The primary purpose of this group is to help Black women and others through public policy efforts and external support.

What Types of Public Policy Do They Focus On 

The nonprofit organization centers its efforts on five key policy areas: economics, education, health and wellness, human trafficking and violence against women. In 2015, the group raised concerns about equitable pay for women during a policy forum held over a Congressional meeting weekend for the Congressional Black Caucus. The organization hosts an annual public policy gathering as part of the Congressional Black Caucus conference. Attendees include women leaders from the Caribbean, Africa and other nations.

The objective of these gatherings is to generate policy papers addressing relevant issues. In October 2021, the organization published three policy papers, one of which focused on “Achieving Economic Security and Inclusion for Black Women.”

Programs and Initiatives

The International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy has sponsored and collaborated on numerous programs to assist Black women and other marginalized groups. The organization has established a robust network to support individuals affected by natural disasters. In 2010, the “Boots on the Ground Initiative” to aid those in need.

The program aims to provide footwear, including shoes and boots, to countries afflicted by natural disasters such as floods, enabling individuals to navigate muddy and waterlogged terrain. Additionally, during the 2019 hurricane season, particularly Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas, the organization facilitated humanitarian aid efforts. In collaboration with Med Share, it donated assistance to 200 affected families in the region.

The nonprofit is also involved in a program addressing the water crisis in Haiti. Despite many water systems in the country, a World Bank report from 2022 reveals that approximately 90% of them are not functioning correctly.

The International Black Women’s Institute of Public Policy collaborates with another nonprofit organization called “Community2Community” (C2C), established in 2010, to assist Haiti in building a sustainable and thriving community in their region. The nonprofit is working with C2C to raise and allocate funds for them to complete the third and fourth phases of its Health and Sanitation initiative, which started around the Mountainside Partner Community.

A primary objective is to establish a water distribution system in the region. The project is currently in its third phase, with plans to construct a pump house powered by solar energy to facilitate water pumping to the mountaintop. The organization also established the Dorothy I Height Global Leadership Academy (DIHGLA) to uplift disenfranchised Black women. Named after the esteemed Black activist Dorothy I Height, the program equips Black women with the skills and knowledge to become global advocates and leaders. Emphasizing character development, cultural competence and gender diplomacy, the program empowers participants to make meaningful contributions worldwide.

– Madison McCray
Photo: Flickr

,

Mercy Corps in Kyrgyzstan

Mercy Corps in KyrgyzstanMore than 30% of the population in Kyrgyzstan lives in poverty, of which 750,000 are just children. Known officially also as the Kyrgyz Republic, Kyrgyzstan is a central Asian country that gained independence in 1991. Constituting many highlands, the geography of Kyrgyzstan allows for livestock raising, farming and production of crops and commodities. Products like meat, dairy and fruit drive the country’s agriculture, which comprises a huge sector of the national economy.

Mercy Corps Efforts in Kyrgyzstan

In 1994, Mercy Corps began its poverty-alleviating efforts in Kyrgyzstan, becoming one of the first nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) to work there. An international organization that operates in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps focuses on helping people in conflict and disaster areas by providing emergency relief, improving child nutrition and building secure communities among the most vulnerable members of a country’s population. In 2023 alone, it reached 30 million people worldwide.

In Kyrgyzstan, Mercy Corps has cooperated with the United Kingdom (U.K.), the United States (U.S.) and the European Union (EU) Governments, as well as donor organizations and private foundations. They aim to address child poverty, provide disaster relief, improve access to clean water and sanitation and more. Here are all the significant strives Mercy Corps has made to support poverty-alleviating efforts in Kyrgyzstan:

  • In 2004, a “micro-finance institution” named “Kompanion” was established. It focuses on group lending and has now become the largest of its kind in Kyrgyzstan. Kompanion provided credit and emergency relief assistance to roughly 4000 of its clients and their families in the Osh and Jalal-Abad provinces following a conflict eruption in 2010 that made them suffer significant losses.
  • In 2012, the “McGovern-Dole Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program” was implemented. Over the next nine years, the program successfully aided in poverty alleviation efforts in Kyrgyzstan. It provided nutrition-based feeding in 510 schools. Additionally, more than 10,000 kindergarten and primary school children were supplied with commodities such as rice, peas and oil. In 2021, the program supported more than 80,000 children across 400 schools by distributing free hot meals.
  • In 2023, it supported four village schools in repairing their indoor toilets in accordance with government-mandated sanitary regulations.
  • On March 1, 2024, with the support of the Ministry of Education and Science, Mercy Corps launched Kyrgyzstan’s first online professional training course for chefs. The course is the latest extension of the McGovern-Dole Program. It aims to increase school cafeteria chefs’ qualifications and make training more accessible nationwide. After completing the course, participants will receive diplomas and certifications. They are then able to go on to complete a one-week internship at a vocational training center.

Conclusion

Though one-fifth of the Kyrgyz population still lives on less than $1.3 a day, Mercy Corps poverty-alleviating efforts in Kyrgyzstan since 1994 have been monumental. Its approach of integrating a mix of advocacy, capacity building and resource distribution through its programs helps tackle poverty, nutrition and sanitation issues. Additionally, it helps provide emergency relief to the most vulnerable parts of the population in times of crisis.

– Jay Kosumi
Photo: Wikimedia Commons

, , , ,

Ukraine Promotes Human Welfare

Ukraine Promotes Human WelfareIn March 2024, the Grain from Ukraine initiative, launched by President Zelenskyy in 2022, contributed 7,600 tonnes of wheat flour to Sudan. This human welfare effort, facilitated by the German Federal Foreign Office, underscores Ukraine’s commitment to humanitarian assistance. The German Federal Foreign Office funded the operation with a $16 million investment, aligning its mission and humanitarian efforts with the principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

In addition, the German Federal Foreign Office bases its actions on key humanitarian principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence. These principles emphasize the importance of aiding individuals based on their needs without influence from political, military, economic, or other agendas, ensuring assistance is purely humanitarian.

Engineering the Donation

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), the German Federal Foreign Office and the Grain from Ukraine program all maintain political neutrality in their donation efforts. Above all, its primary goal is saving lives and alleviating suffering through humanitarian aid. These efforts aim to underscore the importance of foreign aid and advocacy from one nation to another, focusing on the critical need for continued support.

Data Determines Need

The IPC is a multi-partner program that works to improve food security and perform nutrition analysis. This program analyzes situations of need, adheres to the Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) process and shares data. Data from the IPC is then utilized by the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP). The decision-makers like the IPC Acute Food Insecurity (AFI) and HRP use this information to address the situation of food insecurity.

Furthermore, the IPC uses five categories to identify areas of need: minimal/none, stressed, crisis, emergency and catastrophe/famine. The category designation guides decision-makers in prioritizing assistance and intervention efforts on global, regional, or national levels.

Improving Human Welfare

More than 25 million people in Sudan, South Sudan and Chad are facing a severe food security crisis. In Sudan alone, 5 million out of 18 million are experiencing emergency levels of hunger. In addition, the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) reports that a shipment of 7,600 tonnes of wheat flour will provide a month’s sustenance for one million people. Arriving in Port Sudan, this wheat flour, distributed by WFP trucks, is crucial for families, especially during May’s “lean season” when food scarcity intensifies.

Moreover, Eddie Rowe became WFP’s Country Director for Sudan in March 2021, overseeing Emergency and Natural Disaster operations, including in Sudan. Rowe expressed, “This donation will enable WFP to support people whose lives have been completely upended. We are deeply grateful to Ukraine and Germany for supporting the Sudanese people in their greatest hour of need.”

Looking Forward

The Grain from Ukraine initiative, backed by the German Federal Foreign Office, is a beacon of hope for millions facing food insecurity in Sudan, South Sudan and Chad. Through collaborative international efforts, this program not only provides essential sustenance but also embodies the spirit of human welfare and solidarity across borders. The commitment to neutrality and impartiality ensures that aid reaches those most in need, free from external agendas.

Above all, as these endeavors progress, they highlight the crucial role of data-driven decision-making in addressing global hunger crises. The partnership between nations like Ukraine and Germany, alongside organizations such as the WFP, sets a precedent for future humanitarian collaborations. Looking ahead, the continued support and generosity of the international community remain vital in combating hunger and building a more secure, nourished world.

– Pamela Fenton
Photo: Flickr

, ,

Hydropower Plants Light Up Northern Pakistan’s Path Out of Poverty

Hydropower Plants Light Up Northern Pakistan's Path Out of PovertyIn the heart of Pakistan, where rural areas often face a lack of infrastructure and limited access to amenities like electricity, exacerbating poverty, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) has become a beacon of hope. Established in 1982, AKRSP aims at fostering sustainable development and empowering marginalized communities. Furthermore, among its transformative projects are hydropower plants, which illuminate the path out of poverty for Northern Pakistan’s rural communities, ensuring access to reliable electricity and promoting economic growth.

Comprehensive Community-Led Development

AKRSP primarily focuses its efforts on rural regions of Pakistan, spanning provinces such as Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. It employs a comprehensive approach to community-led development and support projects in agriculture and food security, early childhood development, credit and savings, community infrastructure development and education. Moreover, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme commemorates 40 years of community-led development in Pakistan.

Sustainable Energy Solutions in Chitral

The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) has installed 148 micro-hydropower plants in Chitral, addressing the area’s significant electricity access challenges. These run-of-the-river systems, which do not require large reservoirs, harness the natural flow of rivers and lakes to generate sustainable energy. Moreover, water is diverted from rivers and channeled to turbines through penstocks and the movement of turbines generates electricity, distributing power to local communities and improving their access to basic needs. This initiative exemplifies a sustainable approach to enhancing rural electrification and living standards.

Local Empowerment and Global Recognition

Part of these installations is getting the local communities involved in running the plants and putting them in control of their own long-term prosperity and energy creation. Furthermore, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) received a global award for a sustainable rural electrification project in Pakistan and it plays a crucial role in poverty alleviation in Chitral, providing access to electricity for 49% of the population. In addition, AKRSP empowers local communities to engage in income-generating activities.

Social and Economic Benefits of Hydropower Plants

The School for International Training’s study highlighted the positive social and economic impacts of micro-hydropower plants. With the newfound electricity access, communities have seen behavioral changes through television viewing, leading to personal development improvements. Additionally, the switch to hydropower from kerosene has resulted in financial savings for families, enabling investment in new activities and business ventures and further catalyzing community growth and prosperity.

Hydropower Plants: Empowering Rural Communities

The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) stands as a testament to the power of community-driven and NGO-backed development can significantly uplift rural areas in Pakistan. Furthermore, by focusing on sustainable hydropower projects, AKRSP not only provides reliable energy but also encourages economic growth and environmental stewardship. Moreover, the initiative’s success highlights the importance of aligning development goals with community needs and aspirations.

In addition, as AKRSP moves forward, its model serves as a blueprint for similar endeavors globally, aiming to achieve sustainable progress and equity. Above all, through continued dedication to empowering rural communities, the organization is helping to illuminate the path toward a brighter, more sustainable future in Pakistan.

– Emily Shapiro
Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Emergency Response Rooms and Local Response in Sudan

Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) and Local Response in SudanSince the Sudan conflict began in April 2023, an estimated 13,752 lives have been lost, more than 8 million people have been displaced and 24.8 million people, half of Sudan’s population, need humanitarian assistance. Amid the challenges faced by international aid, Emergency Response Rooms (ERR) and localized, community-based aid groups, have emerged as a crucial force supporting victims of the conflict.

Roots of the Conflict

Sudanese journalist Nesrine Malik attributes the April 2023 conflict to the 2003 Darfur genocide. The then-president Omar al-Bashir deployed the Janjaweed militia, later formalized into the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), resulting in the loss of approximately 300,000 lives in the Darfur region as they suppressed a burgeoning rebellion.

In 2019, a successful revolution and military coup brought an end to al-Bashir’s 30-year rule. However, the subsequent power-sharing agreement between the Sudanese Army (SAF) and the RSF only intensified and fueled the flames of the current war, as leaders from both sides vied for dominance and control.

Impact on Civilian Lives

As of October 2023, 5 million people face emergency-level food insecurity. In Bahri City, 38 soup kitchens that supported 200,000 people can no longer source or distribute food due to energy blackouts. Subsequently, a warning from a February 2024 Clingendael report suggests a potential worst-case scenario where famine could claim the lives of 1 million people.

Furthermore, with approximately 30 million people deprived of health care, vulnerability to diseases such as malaria, measles, dengue and cholera has escalated significantly. Widespread human rights violations persist, as a December 2023 United Nations (U.N.) report reveals that RSF members allegedly perpetrated 118 cases of sexual violence, including 19 involving children.

Impact on Aid

Once in Sudan, bureaucratic hurdles often prevent aid from reaching those in need. The U.N. refers to difficulties government authorities place on aid groups, including obtaining visas, transporting aid and importing supplies. In December, fighting engulfed a humanitarian hub in Gezira state, displacing the 800,000 people it supported.

In fact, only 40,000 of those displaced have received aid as 70 World Food Programme (WFP) trucks were stuck in Port Sudan for two weeks in January, awaiting clearance. Both sides in the conflict are weaponizing international aid. The leader of the SAF has expressed intentions to obstruct aid to RSF-controlled regions and prohibit cross-border humanitarian assistance from neighboring states. Meanwhile, the RSF has imposed telecom blackouts which have hindered the delivery of essential supplies.

Additionally, armed fighters have reportedly looted aid trucks and warehouses, exacerbating the challenges in providing critical support to those in need. Constant threat looms over individuals providing life-saving aid. The Aid Worker Security Database reported the deaths of 25 aid workers in 2023. Since April of that year, the World Health Organization (WHO) has registered 60 attacks on health workers.

Emergency Response Rooms and Localised Aid Efforts

The urgency of aid is clear but the response remains insufficient. The U.N. has appealed $2.6 billion to address the crisis, yet it has only secured 3.59% of this amount. The number of national NGOs, international NGOs and U.N. Agencies had dropped from 174 to 85, three months into the conflict. Recognizing this shortfall, highly localized and volunteer-driven efforts of Emergency Response Rooms (ERR) are filling the gap.

The ERRs ensure the availability of fundamental services by assessing local needs and mobilizing volunteers to address them. ERRs have a diverse range of responsibilities, including providing daily meals, assisting pregnant women and individuals with chronic diseases, coordinating with local electricians to repair damaged power lines, facilitating the return of medical staff to hospitals, sourcing fuel for ambulances and disseminating information about safe passages or reported conflict areas.

In addition, the impactful work of ERRs has reached more than 4 million civilians and evacuated 12,000 people. These organizations prioritize transparency in their operations, adopt a decentralized and horizontal organizational structure and adhere to democratic decision-making processes. These principles are aimed at delivering a person-centered response working to prevent Sudan from total collapse.

Challenges Confronting Emergency Response Rooms

The ERRs face challenges of being overstretched, underfunded and lacking resources. The Sudan Crisis Coordination Unit emphasizes a prevailing mentality that sees the local response as “not integral to the international humanitarian response.”

Supporting community-led responses saves lives and directly contributes to shaping a more representative and responsive Sudan that meets its citizens’ needs. The head of USAID has recognized the efforts of ERRs and expressed intentions to shift from a model dependent on the U.N. to one that acknowledges the role of community-based groups.

Strengthening the Emergency Response Rooms

A report from Shabaka in January 2024 offers guidelines for aiding Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs). It emphasizes several crucial aspects: providing ERRs with ample, adaptable funding for necessary staff, supplies and medicines; enhancing communication and coordination among ERRs, medical facilities and humanitarian groups.

Moreover, establishing security measures to shield ERRs from conflict, harassment and intervention; upholding medical neutrality and humanitarian principles to keep ERRs open to all in need; and endorsing training and capacity building for ERR staff in trauma care, infection prevention, mental health and psychosocial support.

Moreover, the Sudanese people show remarkable resilience in the face of war. However, there is a need for the international community to actively recognize and support the model that ERRs offer for humanitarian work, to bolster aid efforts in the country.

– Ben Miley-Smith
Photo: Unsplash

, ,

The Impact of Surge for Water on Indonesian Communities

Surge for WaterSurge for Water, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing water scarcity issues, has made significant strides in helping Indonesian communities. In a country where water scarcity is a pressing concern, Surge for Water’s mission and innovative approach have brought about tangible improvements in the lives of many. By understanding the water crisis in Indonesia and implementing sustainable solutions, the organization has become a beacon of hope for communities facing water-related challenges. Surge for Water has improved access to clean and safe drinking water in Indonesia.

How Did Surge for Water Come To Be?

The inspiration for launching Surge for Water originated during a childhood visit to India, where founder Shilpa Alva observed children her age deprived of the opportunity to play, forced instead to fetch water. As a child, she recognized the injustice of children bearing such responsibilities for their families’ survival.

At 21, Alva undertook a teaching assignment in the remote Indian village of Rajgarh. She encountered students frequently absent from school due to water-related illnesses or limitations. The establishment of Surge in 2008 was a direct response to this fundamental need. It was also a personal calling to address the water crisis affecting communities like those Alva had witnessed in India.

What Brought Surge for Water to Indonesia?

The Southeast Asian country of Indonesia, is facing a pressing issue threatening the well-being of its people and the environment – water scarcity. The water crisis in Indonesia is multifaceted, with several contributing factors exacerbating the situation.

  • Deforestation: Indonesia ranks among the top countries with high deforestation rates. The main causes include illegal logging, agriculture and pulp and paper production. The rampant deforestation in the country has led to erosion, causing the clogging of rivers with silt and agricultural pollutants. This has resulted in a drastic decline in downstream water quality and availability.
  • Urbanization: As more people migrate to urban areas, the demand for water rises, putting a strain on existing water supplies. In fact, Java Island has the highest water stress compared to other regions. It accommodates more than half of the overall population but only has access to 4% of the surface water supply.
  • Pollution: While industrial and agricultural activities contribute to the water crisis in Indonesia, poor sanitation and mismanagement of waste are causing the most pollution. Approximately 25 million Indonesians do not have access to proper sanitation facilities. This results in widespread open defecation in many outdoor locations. This practice contributes to water contamination and the spreading of diarrheal diseases, including cholera. In fact, a quarter of children under the age of 5 in Indonesia are affected by diarrhea. This makes diarrhea the leading cause of child mortality in the country.

How Surge for Water Is Making a Difference in Indonesia

Surge for Water takes a holistic approach to addressing the water crisis in Indonesia. It works closely with local communities to assess their specific needs and develop sustainable solutions that will have a lasting impact. This includes implementing water filtration systems, conducting hygiene education programs and empowering community members to take ownership of their water sources.

For example, at SD Pari Deta, an elementary school, the previous reliance on distant springs and rainfall for water hurt students and teachers due to inadequate toilet facilities. After an assessment, it was discovered that the school faced challenges such as a contaminated rainwater collection tank and a deteriorating well. Open defecation was also prevalent among students. It was determined that constructing a rainwater tank and improving toilet facilities were necessary.

Through collaboration with the local community and school leadership, a rainwater harvesting tank was installed to store 10,400 liters of water. A new toilet with separate stalls for boys and girls was also constructed. Yuliana Boko Kaka, a teacher for second-grade students, stated that the availability of clean water and secure restroom facilities has significantly influenced her students’ behavior. This has led to reduced consumption of contaminated water, the practice of open defecation and the neglect of handwashing practices.

Conclusion

Thanks to Surge for Water’s efforts, thousands of people in Indonesia now have access to clean and safe drinking water. This has not only improved the health and well-being of these individuals but has also empowered communities to thrive and grow. By providing necessities like clean water, the nonprofit is laying the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Indonesia.

– Sara Hatab
Photo: Unsplash

, ,

The Lost Boys: Rebuilding Literacy in South Sudan

The Lost Boys: Rebuilding Literacy in South SudanLiteracy in South Sudan is a significant challenge, with many women, girls and children queueing daily at wells to fetch water for their families. The program, Literacy at the Well, transforms their waiting time, often exceeding an hour, into a learning opportunity. This innovative initiative offers reading and writing lessons, effectively utilizing the time spent at communal water sources for educational purposes.

Literacy at the Well is an unconventional literacy program. It has been recognized by the United States Library of Congress as a best practice program in the area of Gender Equity and Maternal Literacy. The Literacy at the Well program, launched by the nonprofit organization Lost Boys Rebuilding Southern Sudan (LBRSS), aims to teach South Sudanese women to read and write. Founded in 2005 by South Sudanese refugees, known as the Lost Boys, LBRSS targets the critical literacy challenge in South Sudan.

The Lost Boys

In the 1980s, civil war in Sudan displaced or orphaned 26,000 children, ages 5 to 15, from the Nuer and Dinka ethnic groups. Of those who fled Sudan, only 13,000 reached the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya a year and some 1,000 miles later. They became known as the Lost Boys of Sudan because they arrived at the camp without their parents and separated from their families. These boys spent most of their childhood in refugee camps before resettling in the United States (U.S.).

In 2001, nearly 4,000 of these boys found refuge in the U.S., with many settling in Chicago. The International Rescue Committee assisted hundreds of them in starting new lives in cities across the country. The film “The Good Lie,” released in October 2014, highlights the physical, emotional and educational journey of the Lost Boys.

Literacy Rate in South Sudan

As of 2021, South Sudan holds the lowest adult literacy rate for individuals aged 15 and older, with more than 70% of its population under 30 years and half unable to read or write. The country also has approximately 2.8 million children out of school, representing the highest global proportion of out-of-school children. Moreover, a lack of education could keep South Sudan from developing, realizing its citizens’ full potential and breaking its dependency on external support.

The Vision Becomes a Reality

LBRSS raised funds to build schools and provide education in South Sudan. Yet, upon the completion of the first school, no girls attended. Recognizing that girls play a crucial role in spreading education within their families and communities, Ms. Wendi Dwyer, LBRSS’s executive director, joined the effort after meeting Arkangelo, a Lost Boy and founding member of LBRSS, who sought her assistance.

As LBRSS prepared to open a primary school, it found the building filled with women and girls seeking shelter from the sun while waiting to fill their water jugs. Upon being asked if the girls wished to learn to read and write, nearly all responded affirmatively. Thus, Literacy at the Well came into existence.

The Cost Explained

Providing a community with a teacher costs $4,000. Every dollar supports teacher training, salaries and supplies. South Sudan communities contribute by recruiting, training and hiring residents as teachers. Furthermore, these educators rely on students to extend their instruction by sharing lessons with neighbors, children, sisters and husbands.

Currently, LBRSS has 6 sites in 6 communities. Each site serves more than 200 women and girls. In addition, it has built the Malualkon Community Learning Center where more than 400 students attend classes each day.

Looking Ahead

The Literacy at the Well program in South Sudan is pioneering a transformative approach to education, turning everyday chores into opportunities for learning and empowerment. By tapping into the communal spirit at water wells, this initiative is not just teaching women and girls to read and write but is also fostering a culture of education that resonates throughout communities. Above all, the promise of literacy beckons a future where knowledge flows as freely as the water, enriching lives and nurturing the seeds of development and equality.

– Pamela Fenton
Photo: Unsplash

, , ,

Save the Children and Princess Anne’s Charity Efforts

Save the Children and Princess Anne's Charity EffortsHer Royal Highness (HRH) the Princess Royal, accompanied by her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, visited Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking the 75th Anniversary of bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom (U.K.). As Patron of the Save the Children Foundation, HRH Princess Anne’s charity efforts included a visit to the organization’s main office, where she unveiled a plaque commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Save the Children working in Sri Lanka. In addition, HRH took part in the tradition of lighting a ceremonial oil lamp symbolizing hope and prosperity.

Long-standing Commitment to Child Welfare

During the last 50 years, The Princess Royal’s work with Save the Children has gained a great deal of insight concerning the needs of children throughout the world. Having served as President since 1970, HRH became the Patron of Save the Children in 2017. The Princess Royal devotes time to visiting Save the Children’s projects, overseas and in the U.K. Princess Anne also serves as patron or president to more than 300 organizations including WISE, Riders for Health and Carers Trust. Countries included in her trips include Uganda, Bangladesh, Sierra Leone, Mozambique, Bosnia and Herzegovina. HRH’s work centers on health, sports, people with disabilities and science in developing countries.

Initiatives and Innovations in Pediatric Care in Sri Lanka

HRH visited Lady Ridgeway Hospital (LRH) for Children in Colombo, the largest pediatric hospital in Sri Lanka that serves more than 340,000 patients annually without charge. Princess Anne witnessed innovative health care approaches from Kangaroo Care to Little Hearts during her visit. She engaged in discussions with pediatric consultants and Save the Children’s child protection experts about the organization’s support for children affected by the dual challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and Sri Lanka’s severe economic crisis. Save the Children has focused on identifying vulnerable children in need of support for their physical, social and emotional well-being.

Kangaroo Care (KC) is a successful practice of using skin-to-skin contact between infant and parent. In developing countries, KC for low-birthweight infants reduces mortality, severe illness, infection and length of hospital stay. KC is also beneficial for preterm infants in high-income countries.

Little Hearts, a government-approved national fundraising project exceeding 2 billion, to build a 12-story cardiac and critical care wing expanding Lady Ridgway Hospital’s capacity to serve. In Sri Lanka, congenital heart disease is the leading cause of infant mortality, with 10 out of 1,000 infants dying before their first birthday.

Future Goals and Achievements of Save the Children

In 1989, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child. Rooted in Eglantyne Jebb’s initial declaration, this convention now stands as the most universally accepted human rights treaty in history.

In 2024, with the support of donations, volunteers and ambassadors such as Jennifer Garner, Enrique Iglesias and Ms. Rachel, along with Patron Princess Anne, Save the Children aims to increase vaccination coverage in 15 countries, enhance the quality of programming and health equity actions in at least 10 countries and support 15 million children, adolescents and mothers across 15 countries in preventing and treating malnutrition.

Looking Ahead

Sri Lanka Country Director of Save the Children, Julian Chellappah stated “As Save the Children marks its 50th anniversary of operating in Sri Lanka, we couldn’t be more thrilled that Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal has chosen to return here to witness first-hand our life-changing work – and see something of the impact we’ve had over the past 50 years. Her presence is vital to raising awareness of the challenges faced by vulnerable children and their families here.”

Looking forward, Save the Children is poised to continue its vital work, inspired by the support and recognition that such high-profile visits bring, including Princess Anne’s charity efforts, driving further progress in the years to come.

– Pamela Fenton
Photo: Unsplash

,

Organizations Tackling Senior Poverty

Senior PovertyAt present, individuals worldwide aged 65 and above are at a greater risk of becoming or remaining impoverished compared to other age groups, a situation referred to as senior poverty. Typically, adults in this age group have either ceased working or reduced their working hours due to health issues or limited transportation. A United Nations (U.N.) report highlights many countries lacking sufficient social systems to adequately support and care for adults aged 65 and older.

This has been noticed in both developed and developing nations. In fact, South Korea was found to have the highest rate of senior poverty in 2023, with poverty rates among senior adults surpassing 40%. The second highest rates were found in Estonia and Latvia, with both countries’ senior poverty rates above 30%. Additionally, countries such as Australia, Japan and the United States (U.S.) reported 20% or higher poverty rates among their senior populations.

These numbers show that, in many countries, the risk of poverty only rises with age. Babken Babajanian, an author working with HelpAge, says, “Across the world, we’re hearing shocking stories of older people going hungry, selling their assets or even begging in the street to survive.” Organizations like HelpAge International and the AARP Foundation are working hard to find a solution to the rising global senior poverty rates.

HelpAge International

HelpAge International strives to better the lives of older women and men in low and middle-income countries. They focus mainly on older individuals living in crisis-prone and economically insecure areas. The organization aims to “empower older people to lead dignified, active and healthy lives.”

HelpAge accomplishes this by responding to humanitarian crises and ensuring seniors can access livable incomes through social support systems. They focus on building a society where people of all ages can thrive. The organization advocates for the rights of older people. It challenges ageism and raises awareness about issues such as elder abuse.

HelpAge International has networks in Africa, Asia, Eurasia, Europe, Latin America and North America. With such a fantastic reach, this vast network has 170 members in more than 90 countries. Thanks to their extensive network, HelpAge assisted more than 2.4 million senior women and men in accessing health care through their interventions in 2023. In 2023, HelpAge estimates that around 659,000 older citizens were positively impacted by their humanitarian work.

The AARP Foundation

The AARP Foundation aims to build a future without senior poverty. They do this by helping economically vulnerable seniors secure essential goods, health care and knowledge. This assistance aims to help them improve the quality of their lives, thereby strengthening communities and restoring hope into the lives of older adults.

AARP helps older adults with things like receiving rent and mortgage assistance and support for social isolation. The organization also provides resume-building and job interview coaching to people aged 50 and older. Recently, Google made a $10 million grant to the foundation to help fund the digital training workshops it provides to thousands of seniors.

The AARP Foundation has helped more than 900,000 older adults who were vulnerable to becoming impoverished. They have secured more than $720 million in income for older adults living with low incomes. Like HelpAge International, the AARP Foundation is utilizing every resource available to aid them in fighting senior poverty.

– Kimber Peters
Photo: Unsplash

,

COVID-19’s Impact on NGOs in India

COVID-19's Impact on NGOs in IndiaThe global impact of COVID-19 has disrupted the lives of billions worldwide. This has resulted in widespread job and life losses, economic crises and societal turmoil. Amid these unprecedented challenges, the nonprofit sector has emerged as a crucial force. Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) are actively contributing in areas such as humanitarian aid, diplomacy, advocacy and global governance. While the world has recognized the pivotal roles played by NGOs during the pandemic, one notable aspect is COVID-19’s impact on the NGOs in India. The Borgen Project interviewed NGO Leader Sri Gopalakrishnan, the founder of KindKart, to gather insights about the state and growth of NGOs in India.

Lack of Funds and Infrastructure – The Biggest Challenge for the NGOs in India

The pandemic severely impacted India’s social sector, redirecting funds to emergency relief and causing financial challenges for NGOs. About 33% of Indian NGOs faced a six-month survival crisis due to inadequate funds. As rightly pointed out by Sri Gopalakrishnan, although the specific needs of the NGOs may have evolved, addressing the basic needs continues to be the main driver for several local charities in India as COVID-19’s virulence continues to morph since the onset.

Lack of government support and unethical practices by some of the unregistered NGOs usually result in investors and the public losing trust and turning away from donating, exacerbating COVID-19’s impact on the NGOs in India. Moreover, public fundraising activities shifted to online events and social media campaigns due to COVID-19, compelling NGOs to scale back their operations.

Loss of Jobs & Disruption at Schools Impact the NGOs

The closure of schools, businesses and workplaces led to the loss of jobs and income for employed individuals and disruption for children. About 10 million Indians lost their jobs during the second wave of the pandemic. COVID-19’s impact on the NGOs forced them to shift to remote work, impacting operations and creating challenges in balancing fieldwork and digital tasks.

The global unemployment rate hit 6.5% as an additional 33 million people lost their employment in 2020, bringing the total number of unemployed individuals worldwide to 220 million. The economic crisis triggered by the pandemic constrained donors’ capacity, resulting in NGOs facing a decline in voluntary income.

Collaboration Enables Chartering the Course for the NGOs

In 2021, under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) program instituted by the prime minister of India, the World Bank approved $500M to improve response to social protection. This enabled the state and the central government organizations to define a more adaptive social protection system, reaching more groups based on individual needs.

As of current data, there are more than 190,000 registered NGOs in India, according to information from the NGO Darpan portal, a platform that provides space for collaboration between NGOs and key government ministries and departments.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and the Influence of Technology

Amid the crisis, there is an opportunity to reshape relationships between the social sector, businesses and government, with CSR playing a key role. The government mandates companies to allocate 2% of their profits to CSR projects. Increasing CSR commitments and leveraging technology through socio-tech ventures can bring about impactful change in addressing India’s vast socio-economic challenges for nonprofits.

Policy Changes, Governance and Technology Mark the Future

Several reports, including the Center for Monitoring of the Indian Economy (CMIE) statistics, revealed 10 million job losses during the second wave of the pandemic. Therefore, the government requires support from India’s social sector to achieve significant positive change in health, economy and society.

Over the past decade, the World Bank partnered with tech providers, foundations, think tanks and Indian agencies to develop social protection systems. This initiative engaged experts to enhance India’s social protection architecture. To avoid falling into the trap of the global economic crisis, the Government of India must strategize its objectives, introduce many policy changes and enhance the country’s stature in international relations.

– Sudha Krishnaswami
Photo: Unsplash