Archive for category: Politics

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Modi’s New Welfarism Doctrine Is Combating Poverty in India

New WelfarismNarendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, is often perceived in the Global North as a far-right populist who cares only about votes and identity politics. Counterintuitively, he has also established an impressive and expanding social welfare system. Under the doctrine of “New Welfarism,” the government of India has prioritized providing tangible goods and services (food, shelter, infrastructure, direct cash transfers and more) to vulnerable communities while deemphasizing the provision of intangibles such as education and healthcare.

Despite being controversial in development, New Welfarism has yielded impressive dividends for India’s needy and marginalized. Here are four of the doctrine’s most remarkable achievements.

Food Security in India

According to the World Food Programme (WFP), approximately 21% of India’s 1.4 billion inhabitants live on less than $1.90 daily. Meanwhile, the country is home to a whopping quarter of all undernourished people despite representing only 18% of the global population.

To mitigate this dire food insecurity, the Indian government provides more than half the population—821 million people—with 11-pound (5 kg) bags of free rice or wheat a month. This direct food aid almost quintupled in size during the COVID pandemic, becoming a literal lifeline for millions of Indians as the domestic economy reached a near standstill. 

Rural Roads in India

In his second term as Prime Minister (2019-2024), Modi launched a large program titled “PMGSY-III” to construct and upgrade rural roads. While behind schedule to be completed by its slated end date of March 2025, the program’s delays “are nowhere near as egregious as PMGSY-I,” per Newslaundry, an Indian news outlet, in their deep-dive.

Despite the delays, more than 766,000 kilometers of roadway have been completed under the scheme as of August 2024, as have more than 68,000 “upgradation works.” Improving rural infrastructure has been a goal of the Indian government for decades, which is sensible, given that 65% of India’s population lives in rural areas.

Domestic Infrastructure

The Modi government has invested considerable resources to construct homes, electrify rural regions and improve sanitation. One scheme (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana or “PMAY” for short) aims to build 20 million affordable homes, with more than 15 million completed. The homes include amenities such as a kitchen, toilet, water supply and electricity. Any Indian without a permanent dwelling is eligible for the program, with priority given to vulnerable and marginalized communities.

The budget for PMAY was increased by 66% in the fiscal year 2023-24 and was again expanded in the FY 2024-25 budget. Rural electrification has been another area of focus for the Modi regime: from 2014 to 2020, the percentage of rural villages with access to electricity increased from 88% to 99.6%.

Aadhar

Aadhar is a voluntary, government-sponsored digital ID that any Indian adult can enroll in. In a testament to the program’s efficacy, 99% of Indians have done so. Aadhar has proven to be a massive development success for India, as it helps the government know who needs support most desperately. Aadhar also enables the state to send direct cash transfers to beneficiaries when linked to a bank account, cutting down on administrative corruption opportunities.

Final Remarks

The Modi government has made praise-worthy progress in the fight against domestic poverty in areas as diverse as food security, rural infrastructure, affordable housing and capacity building. Sadly, this has come at the cost of a decrease in India’s education and health care budgets. 

– Kipling Newman

Kipling is based in Denver, CO, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Roots of Underdevelopment: Fragility and Rule of Law in Kosovo

Fragility and Rule of Law in KosovoWith a growing population of young, working age people, Kosovo’s potential for economic development is evident. In spite of this, it continues to be ranked one of the poorest countries in Europe, the poverty rate in 2023 standing at 21.7%. By understanding how poverty and troubles with fragility and the rule of law in Kosovo are interconnected, the roots of underdevelopment in this new nation can be illuminated.

Where: The Origins of Fragility

The present difficulties with fragility and the rule of law in Kosovo have deep ties to its historically tumultuous path to sovereignty. Kosovo originally existed as a province in the former Yugoslavia, however, demands for Kosovan self-determination increased after the final breakup of Yugoslavia in 1992. Kosovo gained independence in 2008, though this process proved to be difficult. The Kosovo War exemplifies this troubled journey, a context in which the ethnic cleansing of Kosovar Albanians sparked international outrage.

Demographically, Kosovo is predominantly ethnic Albanian (93%), although there is a minority of Kosovar Serbs that reside in the country, particularly in the North where Serbia maintains de facto rule. Kosovo, then, is still an area of significant political and cultural importance to Serbia. While the civil conflict between ethnic Serbs and ethnic Albanians peaked during the Kosovo War, the legacy of this ethnic tension post-1999 remains, continuing to threaten stability in Kosovo.

What: The Present Manifestations of Fragility

In 2022, violent protests began to emerge as the national government cracked down on ethnic Serbs who failed to adopt Kosovo license plates. Following this civil unrest, there was a mass withdrawal of ethnic Serbs from national institutions as a second form of protest, according to the 2024 Research Briefing from the House of Commons.

The events of April 2023 are a similar case: ethnic Serbs boycotted the local elections in the Northern municipalities. These events are related to the demand that ethnic Serbs were not represented sufficiently in government, which the poll data further reflects, showing that the majority of Kosovans recognise that the nation is governed in the interest of some groups, but not all.

In a similar way to many post-conflict countries, political and social fragility also manifests itself in an undermined rule of law. In post-conflict and fragile states, there tends to be a significant state “capacity gap” making the enforcement of law difficult. This capacity gap occurs at the judicial level in Kosovo, with U.N. military peacekeepers having to establish Civilian-Military Centres to deal with crime reports, according to USAID.

Government corruption and organized crime continue to plague the nation, taking advantage of these gaps in institutional and judicial capacity. The prevalence of bribery is an exemplary case of how the rule of law in Kosovo is weak at the state level, along with the proliferation of the drug trafficking and human smuggling industry.

Hindering Development

Generally, evidence shows that fragility causes poverty to become more deeply entrenched. As Carolina Sánchez-Páramo, Global Director for the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Global Practice, states: “Unless we tackle the drivers of fragility and conflict, we won’t be able to win the fight against extreme poverty.” In line with this rhetoric, then, the potential for increasingly heightened ethnic conflict in Kosovo puts poverty alleviation initiatives at risk of failure or stagnation.

Furthermore, whilst organized crime has proliferated, other industries have failed, according to Per Concordiam Magazine. The 2023 polls show that the lack of jobs in Kosovo is a major concern, second only to the cost of living and this unemployment is exacerbated amongst the Kosovan youth leaving much of their younger, working-age population little to no sustainable income, according to the Center for Insights in Survey Research.

In turn, reliance on organized crime for income makes little room for sustainable industry development or legal employment opportunities, whilst also significantly reducing fiscal tax revenues. On average, countries in the Balkans lose between 20% and 30% of their annual revenues to this sort of activity, Per Concordiam Magazine. These revenues could be useful for the development of public infrastructure, health care and education services and other public spending projects.

Long-Term Solutions

Despite the evident difficulties with fragility and the rule of law in Kosovo, there is certainly a possibility for sustainable development, guided by international initiatives looking to support private industry development and regional integration.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) recognizes the complexities of Kosovo’s situation, acknowledging the intricacies of its relationship with Serbia, its multi-ethnic population and the flaws in the state’s institutional capabilities. Through a five-year investment and policy strategy that promotes deeper regional integration, The EBRD aims to stimulate the domestic private sector by opening up the Kosovan industry to new markets.

The EBRD’s previous 2016-2021 strategy was successful in a multitude of fields by financing the country’s first two large-scale renewable energy projects, Baigora wind farm and KITKA wind; rehabilitating Kosovo’s Rail Route 10, helping to improve connectivity with North Macedonia and Serbia; and setting up Women in Business specific lending schemes.

The road to sustainable economic development in Kosovo has, so far, been difficult, hindered notably by a fragile socio-political context, underdeveloped state institutions and extensive crime networks. But the untapped potential of Kosovo’s youthful population remains, and so does the international initiatives looking to support Kosovo economically.

– Tilly Phillips

Tilly is based in Surrey, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Joint Efforts to Support the Hudaydah Agreement

The Joint Efforts to Support the Hudaydah Agreement The Hudaydah port in Yemen plays an impactful role, handling 70% of the nation’s imports, including crucial humanitarian aid and commercial supplies. The ongoing conflict has disrupted operations at Hudaydah and the nearby Saleef port, drastically affecting more than eight million Yemenis who rely on these imports. To mitigate this humanitarian crisis, the conflicting parties established the Hudaydah Agreement, which aims to shield the ports from conflict. The United Nations (U.N.) monitors this agreement to ensure compliance and maintain the essential flow of goods.

Strengthening the Hudaydah Agreement

On June 14, 2024, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the U.N., Abdulaziz AlWasil, met with Michael Beary, Head of the U.N. Mission to Support the Hudaydah Agreement (UNMHA), in New York City. The meeting focused on reinforcing the agreement that plays a crucial role in maintaining the flow of humanitarian aid through Yemen’s vital Hudaydah ports. Both Saudi Arabia and the U.N. have committed to ensuring the stability and security of these ports and advancing peace throughout Yemen. Their diplomatic efforts, including the Hudaydah Agreement, exemplify ongoing initiatives to resolve the conflict and promote recovery in Yemen.

Saudi Arabia’s Role in Yemen’s Diplomacy

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with allied nations and the U.N., is vigorously advocating for a diplomatic solution to the conflict in Yemen. Over the past year, Saudi Arabia has facilitated negotiations between Yemen’s internationally recognized government based in Aden and the Houthi rebels. These ongoing discussions aim to cease the fighting and ensure the full reopening of ports critical for importing humanitarian aid. The efforts of Saudi Arabia to secure a ceasefire and safeguard the Hudaydah ports received commendation from Hans Grundberg, the U.N. Special Envoy for Yemen, who described them as a “step change.” According to U.N. and Saudi officials, the diplomatic initiatives supporting the Hudaydah Agreement are making progress and have been ongoing for an extended period.

The United Nation’s Diplomatic Initiatives

In collaboration with Saudi Arabia, the U.N. has been intensively engaged in diplomatic efforts to ensure the ongoing delivery of aid to Yemen through the Hudaydah ports and other channels. On December 26, 2023, U.N. Special Envoy Hans Grundberg announced ongoing discussions with both the Yemeni government in Aden and the Houthi rebels. These talks aim to create a peace roadmap for Yemen that can potentially benefit all citizens, particularly those in dire need. Key elements of the roadmap include a nationwide ceasefire, the reopening of roads in various regions and reducing restrictions on essential ports like those in Hudaydah.

A Unified Approach to Resolve Yemen’s Crisis

The collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the U.N. exemplifies a unified approach to addressing the complex challenges in Yemen. Through sustained diplomatic efforts and strategic interventions, both entities aim to secure a stable and peaceful environment in Yemen, ensuring that aid reaches those in dire need and paving the way toward a resolution of the protracted conflict.

– Abdullah Dowaihy

Abdullah is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and focuses on Good News, and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Impact of Mongolia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund

Mongolia's Sovereign Wealth FundMongolia is among the least densely populated countries in the Eastern world, with approximately 3.5 million people separated across close to 604,000 square miles. Of this population, 27% currently suffer from poverty. Like many nations, those most commonly affected are young and codependent people who struggle to afford a mortgage or bring food to the dinner table. Much of the land is uninhabitable and easy to mine. However, the lack of population concentration makes it difficult to spread resources across the country. Mongolia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund is aimed at improving the quality of life for its citizens.

The Sovereign Wealth Fund

In May 2024, Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene Luvsannamsrai and the Central Bank of Mongolia passed a bill to enter Mongolia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund into legislation. The program allows profits from the mining industry, which accounts for around a third of the national annual budget, to contribute to three separate pots of funds: the future heritage fund, the development fund and the savings fund.

The savings fund is the most important for creating a more sustainable outlook for the economy. This initiative was formed in response to the main directions and aims established by the government in 2021 to combat the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic created a precarious job market and an even more precarious living situation for many residents.

Impact of the Fund

The Mongolian government has always been proactive in its efforts to fight poverty, but only now has its work resulted in problems being solved and, perhaps, eventually, resolved Erdenes Mongol LLC, which oversees government investment in mining enterprises, has taken advantage of its position as a country with one of the highest mineral resources per capita in the world and contributed to a promising program.

The money redistributed to the Mongolian central bank will be used to increase investment in health care, education and housing. The priority involves supporting the 10,000 families currently on the waiting list for the Housing Loan program, paving the way for greater financial equality in line with the United Nations (U.N.) 17 development goals.

The wealth fund is only in its early stages and will have more of a considerable impact with time. However, the Mongolian government could still take other routes to enhance its plans since mining resources are far from the only strength of the Mongolian economy. About 40% of employment comes from nomadic roles such as herding livestock, so using the money earned from exports in agriculture could further the benefits reaped by the wealth fund and lessen the burden on struggling civilian families.

Considering the initiative promises to improve prospects for many, Mongolia’s efforts could potentially lead neighboring countries like India and China to use a Robin Hood strategy. This strategy involves taking money from the most profitable areas of the economy and redistributing it to the most disadvantaged.

Final Remark

Mongolia needs to be prepared to adapt its plan to any future circumstances, as other countries may have different economic demands and leadership styles. Additionally, carbon emissions have a potentially detrimental impact on a large scale. Mongolia could solve one problem by contributing to another. However, its efforts so far have relied solely on using what the country already has and would have produced to address the obstacles to its ability to thrive.

There are debates over whether the fund justifies corruption and conglomeration. However, the long-term benefits of such an initiative could outweigh the short-term setbacks and eventually set Mongolia onto a more sustainable playing field.

– Lewis Eyre

Lewis is based in Bournemouth, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Happiness Index and Poverty in Finland, Denmark and Switzerland

Happiness IndexThe world of well-being finds bliss in the fight against poverty. In the happiest countries ranking, Finland, Denmark and Switzerland always top the World Happiness Report. Underneath their high happiness index are sophisticated systems of poverty alleviation programs and models of social innovation and inclusion.

Finland: Universal Social Welfare Programs

Finland’s being at the top in global happiness rankings is underpinned by a commitment to universal social welfare programs that guarantee a safety net for all citizens. One such model is the Finnish Education System, famous for its fairness and inclusiveness. Since early childhood education, Finland provides free, high-quality education up to higher education for all, irrespective of socioeconomic background. This egalitarian approach empowers people and mitigates the transmission of poverty from generation to generation.

Moreover, Finland’s Basic Income Experiment is just one more example of how innovative approaches to poverty alleviation work with unconditional cash transfers given to a randomly selected group of citizens. According to the European Commission, “The Finnish basic income experiment ran for two years (2017-2018). The main aim of the experiment was to study whether a basic income would increase participation in the labor market and diminish the bureaucracy relating to social security benefits.

The results show that whereas it had no significant impact on employment, it led to less bureaucracy as well as higher life satisfaction and well-being.” By attending to income insecurity, these programs help foster social cohesion with remarkable success in reducing poverty and further contributing to Finland’s happiness.

Denmark: Flexicurity and Active Labor Market Policies

Part of what boosts Denmark’s happiness index is its adoption of flexicurity: a peculiar concoction of flexible labor markets and comprehensive social security. The Danish Flexicurity Model ensures smooth transitions between jobs with robust unemployment benefits and active labor market policies. One such program is the Danish Active Employment Policy, which includes personalized support and training for job seekers, thus enhancing their employability and, on the other hand, reducing long-term unemployment.

Denmark’s investment in Vocational Education and Training has ensured that the skills acquired are highly relevant and in high demand in the market. This ensures sustainable livelihoods and economic resilience. These initiatives imply that Denmark is on the way toward a dynamic labor market coupled with mechanisms of social protection, which significantly reduce poverty and enhance happiness.

Switzerland: Decentralized Social Welfare

Decentralized governance structures and a deep emphasis on vocational training and apprenticeships are two salient features of Switzerland’s approach to alleviating poverty. Switzerland’s social assistance system, which is managed at the cantonal level, comprises targeted assistance to people in financial difficulties, which is duly attuned to local needs and conditions.

Another characteristic feature of the success story of Switzerland is its Dual Vocational Education and Training system. This all-around program contains theory, in-classroom learning and practical workplace learning experiences. It gives employable skills and hence makes them employable, enhancing their socioeconomic status. Through these initiatives, Switzerland shows the importance of community-driven interventions and skills development in reducing poverty and promoting happiness.

Conclusion

The poverty alleviation programs implemented by Finland, Denmark and Switzerland offer insightful lessons on the crossroads of happiness and socioeconomic policy. From universal social welfare programs to active labor market policies and vocational training initiatives, these countries are vivid examples of ways poverty may be addressed to improve societal welfare.

As the world fights the intractable problems of poverty and inequality, the experience of these three countries with a high happiness index is a lighthouse guide as it shows how innovative policy with inclusive programs can lead to a happier, more equitable future for all.

– Honorine Lanka Perera

Honorine is based in Highland, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Solidarity Economy an Effective Remedy for Poverty

Solidarity Economy an Effective Remedy for PovertyIn efforts to fight poverty, local organizations are turning to a solidarity economy, which at its core, prioritizes social gain over profit. These organizations integrate concepts of human development, equal participation and sustainability. In some cases, such as with the Deccan Development Society in India, solidarity economic models have addressed structural deficiencies and inequalities by focusing on individual well-being and sustainable production. Fundamentally, a solidarity or social economy aims to balance social and economic goals and address poverty. Organizations within this model emphasize the social impact of their output instead of profit maximization.

Solidarity economies feature cooperative governance, democratic decision-making in economics, sustainable production methods and a commitment to human rights protection. Although solidarity economy primarily refers to a network of local cooperatives and fair trade companies operating under a strict ethical code, it also encompasses a broader economic model. Some organizations and governments have highlighted its potential for policy implementation. It is viewed as a response to 21st-century challenges and a means to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A Response to Globalization and Inequality

Solidarity economic organizations emerged as a counterpoint to the shortcomings of globalization. They challenge its status as the sole path to development. These grassroots organizations, mainly in developing countries, have criticized the exploitation of natural resources for profit and the structural flaws that push people into low-skill, low-wage jobs. In addition, they lament the loss of cultural identity and knowledge due to the homogenization of society. The solidarity economy aims to address poverty and the inequalities driving it, such as regional disparities and social exclusion, by offering an alternative model that seeks to restore balance.

The Impact of COVID-19

Solidarity economies gained prominence after the COVID-19 pandemic. With businesses closing, billions were left without income, dependent on state initiatives or their savings. Solidarity economic organizations worldwide stepped up, showcasing the impact of a model centered on social needs. As the immediate effects of the pandemic receded, the long-term impact on global poverty emerged clearly. The pandemic also exacerbated inequalities; between 2019 and 2021, the income of the wealthiest quintile dropped by 0.9%, while that of the poorest quintile fell by 3%.

A Focus on India

India’s rapidly expanding economy contributed to a decrease in multidimensional poverty from 29% to 11% over nine years. While this appears as a significant achievement on paper, contrasting views question the authenticity of this impressive trajectory as the statistics suggest. Critics specifically target the methodology for calculating multidimensional poverty. They argue that the categories constituting the multidimensional aspect and the revenue baselines might have political motivations.

In India, high levels of inequality persist across the population. The wealthiest 10% control 80% of the country’s wealth. Structural inequalities continue, with rural areas nearly twice as likely to experience poverty as urban areas. Despite the official illegality of discrimination based on the caste system, it remains a significant factor in income distribution, along with the tribal system. The Dalit caste and Adivasis tribe, historically regarded as untouchables, live in marginalized rural communities and often hold low-paying jobs. Currently, members of lower castes and tribes represent five out of six people living in multidimensional poverty in India.

The Deccan Development Society

The Deccan Development Society was founded more than two decades ago, working in about 75 villages of Tanangala province, it aimed to unite 5,000 women from the Dalit caste living in extreme poverty to improve their living conditions. At the heart of their efforts lie solidarity economy principles and poverty alleviation through the communities’ self-reliant operations. These communities prioritize democratic processes, focusing on food and resource sustainability. They empower women from lower castes to engage in economic decision-making, incorporating permaculture, sustainable agriculture and education as key strategies for food security. The society’s autonomous yet collaborative approach to managing agricultural resources has enabled the production of an additional 1,000 meals per family annually.

The Deccan Development Society’s notable success has shown that solidarity economies are effective in mitigating poverty resulting from entrenched systems of inequality. Moreover, by focusing on sustainable and self-sufficient production that aims at well-being, society has reclaimed community agency against the backdrop of caste disparities. In 2019, the society received the United Nations (U.N.) Equator Award, is a distinguished recognition for organizations that combat poverty by sustainably utilizing biodiversity. While much of India faced production challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Deccan Development Society managed to donate 10 kilograms of grains to the region’s relief efforts.

The Future of Solidarity Economy

Organizations advocating for the solidarity economy model, aim to address critical 21st-century challenges in the developing world, such as inequality, poverty and the scarcity of natural resources. The U.N. has established a task force under the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) umbrella to promote and study SSE’s role in achieving the 17 SDGs. Furthermore, the U.N. views SSE as a transformative force with the potential to redefine the implementation of the SDGs, emphasizing self-determination and an economy based on social needs. SSE is considered capable of influencing policy at the national level. Looking ahead, the impact of solidarity economies on poverty reduction could evolve into a global network, amplifying their progressive agenda for broader visibility and support.

– Felix Stephens

Felix is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Drug Rehabilitation in Brazil and How the Government Is Tackling It

Drug Rehabilitation in BrazilBrazil has an extensive history of problems with substance abuse. The Brazilian populace contains many impoverished people facing significant challenges in accessing public medical care, forcing individuals to seek alternatives. However, the Government of Brazil is taking great strides towards reducing these issues. One such step is the establishment of the Brazil and the South Cone Programme to “support the Governments of Brazil in the implementation of effective policies in drug law enforcement and drug abuse prevention.” If Brazil continues along this trajectory, then improvements will continue. Here are some ways Brazil is tackling drug use.

Psychoactive Drugs and Access To Help

The use of psychoactive drugs is becoming more common in all treatment centers, leading to challenges in recovery and an increased likelihood of relapse. This has led to studies to better understand the most effective ways of reaching individuals struggling with such addiction. Fortunately, some authors have discovered that economic position played a significant role in the issue. Those in poverty have less access to education and are still determining how to help themselves. The Brazilian public health system, in the past, has neglected those in poverty, restricting access to treatment facilities for individuals with limited financial resources. Considering these shortcomings, drug rehabilitation in Brazil is now more accessible in urban areas, where mental health services have been increasing since 2008. Rural areas still lag, but the advancement in urban areas is a good start for facilitating drug rehabilitation in Brazil.

Alcohol Abuse Help

In terms of alcohol abuse, Brazil has taken great strides. The Brazilian health care system has tackled the problem via three programs. First is the “Family Health Strategy,” which utilizes the services of community health workers to engage in outreach activities and home visits. Second is the “CAPS” program, which provides outpatient clinics catering to individuals requiring mental health services. A specialized staff team comprising “nurses, social workers, psychologists and psychiatrists” operate these clinics. The team is well-equipped to provide comprehensive and customized care to patients with varying mental health needs. The third is a novel program devised to assist individuals who have recently undergone addiction treatment in obtaining employment through post-treatment care. The primary objective of the program is to facilitate employment opportunities for individuals who have previously struggled with addiction by addressing any barriers or challenges that may impede their progress. 

Use of Religion To Help

This approach provides an opportunity to establish connections with like-minded individuals, engage in volunteer work, receive personalized psychological care and obtain financial support early on. By incorporating religion into drug rehabilitation programs, a more comprehensive range of resources and support systems become accessible, thereby increasing the likelihood of long-term recovery and overall well-being. In addition, this approach fosters an atmosphere that acknowledges personal potential and encourages camaraderie among individuals, all while offering unwavering and impartial support. The effectiveness of spiritual therapy ultimately rests on the willingness of those seeking help to embrace it. 

Conclusion

The aspects above underscore the effectiveness of drug rehabilitation programs in Brazil, which have proven to be a valuable resource for many underprivileged individuals seeking support and assistance. It is hoped that such efforts will continue unabated, not only in Brazil but also in other countries facing comparable challenges. 

– Jordan Cunningham
Photo: Unsplash

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How Political Polarization Affects Foreign Aid 

How Political Polarization Affects Foreign Aid 
Political polarization refers to the divergence of political attitudes toward ideological extremes. In simple terms, people are becoming more divided in their views and tending more toward far-right or far-left views, creating vast ideological distances between opposing political individuals. This results in overall less agreement among those of differing political beliefs. However, this may not be the only result of increasing polarization.

Consequently, viewpoints are increasingly becoming more singular, allowing prevalent issues in society to be turned monochrome. This has especially been exacerbated in political discourse surrounding issues with a strong moral component, which cannot be quantified by numbers or data. For example, the issue of foreign aid could be considered to have a high level of subjectivity, as there is no correct answer to how much foreign assistance ‘should’ be provided.

The Impact on Global Poverty

Studies have previously shown that high levels of political polarization can lead to a delay in the legislative process and that a divided government can critically slow the policymaking process. Research has uncovered how polarization can delay the legislative process by “60 days, on average,” a significant duration of time for which many issues cannot wait.

A delay in the legislative process will inevitably hinder decisions made regarding U.S. public policy, including foreign policy and aid measures. Furthermore, polarization can impact policy on an international scale, affecting international cooperation. This could be detrimental to recipient countries, leading to the neglect of those who are most in need.

Poverty Reduction Abroad, Impacts at Home

Addressing global poverty has benefits for domestic donors such as the U.S., including improvements to the economy, job creation and reinforcing national security. Reductions in global poverty mean that, on aggregate, fewer people will be living below the poverty line. Thus, their overall disposable income will be higher. Higher demand accompanies higher incomes. Therefore, consumption is likely to increase, which can increase global demand. Domestic markets will be able to reap the benefits of this increased demand, and additional job creation may occur. This can generate an incentive for addressing global poverty.

Fostering international relationships is yet another benefit of foreign aid. Providing assistance to other nations encourages international cooperation and may be a preventative measure against future conflict. National security grows stronger as alliances between nations are fostered. This provides another incentive for foreign aid.

Foreign aid given by the U.S. has already made a massive impact on global poverty reduction efforts. For example, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program tackling HIV in Africa, prevented many deaths that would have likely otherwise occurred due to the disease’s high mortality rates. Other aid programs have included alleviating famine in India, which, in addition to helping the Indian population, also spurred development in the agricultural industry. This resulted in better production techniques and higher yields. The military aid provided to many South American countries from the 1980s has accelerated the clamp-down on illegal substances, both for the U.S. and other nations, decreasing the global supply of drugs. Foreign aid plays a critical role in combating poverty, and, as demonstrated, has beneficial effects for all.

Individual Action

While the U.S. is numerically the largest contributor to overseas aid, when taking into account the per capita figure, the U.S. ranks significantly lower than other countries overall. Considering the vast size and GDP of the U.S., more could certainly be done in terms of providing foreign assistance.

Now more than ever, individual action is key in expediting the legislative process. Putting pressure on political leaders can be done in different forms, through emailing, calling, writing letters and much more. This is critical in obliging leaders to put foreign poverty reduction at the forefront of their agenda, and overcoming the delay created by intensifying polarization, in order to achieve a successful eradication of global poverty.

Solutions to Polarization

While polarization is a very real and worsening issue, it is more of a psychological phenomenon than a concrete issue. This makes any form of solution difficult to enact. Reducing prejudice and intolerance between different groups is key to becoming more open-minded. This can be facilitated through encouraging more contact and discussion between opposing groups. Encouraging open debate and analyzing alternative perspectives is helpful in avoiding polarization. This will ultimately be the key to mitigating the legislative time delays and other negative impacts of political polarization.

– Hannah Bugeja
Photo: Flickr

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Gender-Based Violence in Politics

Gender-Based Violence in Politics
According to the World Bank, nearly one in three women has endured gender-based violence (GBV). While intimate partner violence is one of the more common forms of GBV, sometimes GBV can occur in the public sphere because of a woman’s level of political involvement. Here are some things to know about gender-based violence in politics.

What is Gender-Based Violence?

Gender-based violence or GBV is “sexual, physical, mental [or] economic harm inflicted [upon women and girls] in public or in private.” For a long time, violence against women was accepted and normalized in society. It wasn’t until 1992 that gender-based violence was legally considered by the U.N. to be a violation of women’s human rights.

GBV in Politics

The right to vote and the right to hold office are civic duties that everyone should have the opportunity to utilize. Yet, in many countries, women are receiving backlash for being heavily involved in democratic processes. Whether it be running for office or voting, the number of women who are politically engaged has recently increased. Due to the very public nature of politics, however, many women who live in places that aim to suppress women’s rights have been in danger of being harmed and sometimes even killed for their political engagement. 

In What Countries Do Women in Politics Experience the Highest Rates of Gbv?

Women in politics are said to experience violence at higher rates in the countries of Mexico, China, India and Afghanistan. There have been several instances reported in these countries of gender-based violence being inflicted upon women who are politically engaged. For example, in May 2021, a Mexican woman who was running for local deputy was shot at while holding a rally. A similar scenario took place in Afghanistan in January 2021 when two Afghan women who were judges in Afghanistan’s Supreme Court were shot and killed. 

Looking Ahead

Many organizations are working to eliminate the violence that not only women working in politics but all women must endure. For example, CARE has been working towards its mission of “sav[ing] lives, defeat[ing] poverty, achiev[ing] social justice, and fight[ing] for women and girls” since 1945. CARE is specifically addressing the issue of GBV by aiding survivors mentally, emotionally, physically, financially and legally. Additionally, CARE integrates ways to combat GBV across all of its initiatives. By recognizing GBV as a complex and widespread issue, CARE aims to fight it in all of the many places in which it appears. Thus far, their initiatives have reached millions of people, with 2.4 million survivors of GBV receiving help and 92 GBV initiatives being implemented in 34 countries.

CARE is not the only organization working towards fighting back against gender-based violence. The Foundation for Civic Education and Social Empowerment (FOCESE) has similar goals. FOCESE is an organization based in Malawi whose mission is to help vulnerable communities, specifically young women and girls, and advocate for “gender-equitable social norms, attitudes, and behavioral change at both community and individual levels.” Additionally, FOCESE claims to “work tirelessly to prevent violence against women and girls.” In addition to their desire to combat GBV, FOCESE is also encouraging young girls to become more politically engaged. 

The Youth for Inclusion, Participation, and Empowerment (YIPE) in Local Governance is a project aimed at increasing the amount of women’s representation and involvement in local government. This project, coupled with the organization’s constant desire to combat GBV, is a step in the right direction. Hopefully between organizations such as CARE and FOCESE, gender-based violence in politics — and elsewhere — will not only decrease but, eventually, come to an end.

– Nicole Alexander
Photo: Flickr

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How Poverty Reduction Strengthens Social and Political Stability

Social and Political Stability
Poverty plays a primary role in many of the social and political issues visible around the world. Considering this, global poverty reduction stands as the solution to strengthening social and political stability worldwide.

The Connection between Poverty and Instability in Nepal

Nepal, a country in South Asia, stands as a strong example of how poverty connects to social and political instability. For much of its modern existence, Nepal has seen a steady stream of political instability and violence, visible in tragic events such as the Nepalese Civil War that lasted from 1996 to 2006 and many other political uprisings. While some of this instability links to Nepal’s historically weak governance, studies show a strong correlation between the nation’s poverty and political violence.

According to a research article by Lauren C. Griffin published in 2015, about 25% of people in Nepal survived on less than $2 per day. The history of extreme poverty in the nation opened the door for instability and violence in many ways. For instance, the Maoist insurgency beginning in 1996 led to Maoists taking over the education system to perpetuate their terror and recruiting impoverished people with grievances against the government to join the cause.

Because many of the Nepalese are trapped in this cycle of poverty with their basic needs going unmet, it is easier for political instability and radical terrorism to take hold. By helping to raise the quality of life and access to decent wages and education in Nepal, not only would residents be able to rise out of poverty but the country’s ever-present political and social chaos would be curtailed as well, says Griffin.

There is a broader consensus that helping to promote political stability and to solve social and political issues like those found in Nepal is one important way to fight poverty. “Regions that are afflicted with problems of poverty are more likely to experience crises and instability, and the reverse is also true,” said Dr. Ritu Lauter, a professor of International Studies and Political Science at Peninsula College in an interview with The Borgen Project. “When poverty rates are low, you are likely to experience more political stability… People in free and open societies are likely to fare better in life on all sorts of indicators of human security and well-being. Consequently, there is less likelihood of social and political upheaval and unrest.”

Women’s Rights and Access to Education

The prevalence of poverty typically impacts issues such as women’s rights and opportunities and access to education. Without regard for women’s rights and educational opportunities, cycles of generational poverty only continue. Dr. Lauer understands the importance of ending global poverty in order to find solutions to these issues. “Global poverty is associated with negative outcomes in all areas of life, be they social, economic or political,” she said in her interview with The Borgen Project.

“With more access to wealth come more opportunities to have a higher standard of living and a more comfortable lifestyle. When survival is not the only goal and societies have more resources available, investments in human development are more likely, thus supporting higher literacy rates and gender equality.”

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), “If all students in low-income countries had just basic reading skills (nothing else), an estimated 171 million people could escape extreme poverty. If all adults completed secondary education, we could cut the global poverty rate by more than half. ” Recognizing the importance of education in reducing poverty, the U.N. declared high-quality education one of its 17 Sustainable Development Goals for 2030, with the overall objective of reaching zero poverty.

The Potential Impact of Support

According to Oxfam, a significant majority of the global adult population living in poverty are women. These women face numerous obstacles in their efforts to escape poverty, including low wages and precarious working conditions. Providing these women with access to resources that can uplift them out of poverty not only benefits them individually but also contributes to the overall development of their impoverished nations.

For instance, women represent 45% of the agricultural workforce in developing countries. When women are given more opportunities, such as improved access to education and other resources to support their careers, it leads to better community nutrition outcomes and more efficient management and preservation of local natural resources, as stated by Global Citizen. Additionally, safeguarding women from violence and political oppression plays a crucial role in reducing poverty rates in any given region, fostering social stability, and promoting community growth.

Action to Address Social Issues

Work is already underway to end global poverty by addressing social issues like these. For example, a U.K.-based charity called the Nepal Education Foundation (NEF) is focusing on improving primary education in Northern Nepal. Not only does the NEF work to provide educators and schools with the resources and support needed but it also works with local communities in Nepal to “construct classrooms, toilets and playgrounds.” The NEF also helps with curriculum development.

Dress for Success, established in 1997, is a large nonprofit that works in more than 20 countries to empower women with resources and skills to attain economic self-sufficiency, enabling them to rise out of poverty. Dress for Success provides this support for impoverished women in several ways, including helping poorer women find outfits for job interviews and hosting programs that teach women leadership skills that will help them thrive in their employment endeavors and in life.

So far, the organization has helped more than 1.3 million women move toward self-sufficiency and independence. The efforts of Dress for Success not only help individual women prosper economically but trickles out into broader prosperity for whole communities and countries as a whole.

As the fight against global poverty continues, it is important to remember how improving political stability and social issues benefits not only individuals and their countries but the peace and prosperity of the world as a whole. Be it by promoting political peace, or by providing educational access to children and protecting women’s rights, the whole world benefits from global poverty reduction.

– Elijah Beglyakov
Photo: Flickr