Information and stories about poverty reduction.

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Addressing Elderly Poverty in Zambia

Elderly Poverty in Zambia
Elderly poverty in Zambia is a growing concern in a country where more than 60% of the population lives below the poverty line. Older Zambians face unique challenges, often compounded by a lack of formal pensions, leaving many reliant on informal family networks or charity. As poverty continues to affect much of the population, elderly individuals are especially vulnerable to economic hardship, with limited resources to meet their basic needs.

The Social Cash Transfer (SCT) Programme, which the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services initiated in 2003, plays a crucial role in supporting vulnerable households, including those headed by elderly individuals. The primary goal of the program is to “reduce extreme poverty” and disrupt the intergenerational cycle of poverty within these households. Through regular cash transfers, recipients report improvements in food security, school attendance for children and overall household stability.

The State of Poverty in Zambia

Poverty in Zambia remains widespread, with rural populations disproportionately affected. According to the World Bank, more than 60% of rural Zambians live in poverty. Subsistence farming is the primary source of livelihood for these households, but unpredictable weather conditions and poor infrastructure make it difficult to sustain their livelihoods. Those living in poverty typically lack access to basic services such as clean water, health care and education, trapping them in a cycle that is hard to break.

Older Zambians, particularly those without family support, face significant challenges. The situation is dire for households headed by older individuals, with 83% of these households living in poverty and 66% classified as extremely poor. These households are often burdened by health issues that make it difficult for older people to work, while also increasing their medical expenses. The country’s current social security system falls short in addressing these needs, with very few older adults having access to pensions due to lifetimes spent working in the informal labor market. As a result, most elderly individuals have no financial safety net. Additionally, “less than 12% of Zambia’s current labor force is covered by any form of social security,” meaning that future generations of older adults are likely to face similar challenges in the absence of substantial reforms.

How the SCT Program Helps

The SCT Program has shown positive results in reducing poverty among Zambia’s elderly population. Recipients report that the cash transfers allow them to purchase essential goods such as food and clothing, as well as household items. This financial support is critical, particularly for the elderly, who often suffer from age-related health conditions or disabilities that prevent them from earning an income. According to a 2022 UNICEF report, elderly people who receive these transfers experience less hunger and improved access to health care services.

However, the program faces ongoing challenges. Many elderly individuals, especially in remote areas, struggle to access the program due to poor infrastructure and a lack of awareness about the services available. Rising inflation and increasing costs of living further strain the cash transfers, making it difficult for recipients to meet all their needs.

Looking Forward

Zambia’s elderly population continues to face significant challenges, but the Social Cash Transfer Program provides a vital lifeline. Expanding the program to reach more of the elderly population, improving infrastructure for better accessibility, and ensuring that payments keep pace with inflation are essential steps toward reducing elderly poverty in Zambia. Addressing the specific needs of older people remains crucial for Zambia’s overall poverty reduction efforts as the nation’s population continues to age.

– Isabel Gallagher

Isabel is based in Dorset, UK and focuses on Celebs and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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The WFP and Balenciaga: Fashion Combats Hunger and Poverty

The WFP and Balenciaga: Fashion Combats Hunger and Poverty In the world of high fashion, where luxury brands dominate, Balenciaga has taken an innovative step by partnering with the World Food Programme (WFP). This collaboration allows Balenciaga to use its influence to fight global hunger and poverty, revealing a trend among brands to leverage their platforms for critical global issues. By integrating charitable initiatives into its collections, Balenciaga demonstrates that fashion can significantly reduce hunger and help lift people out of poverty.

The Fashion Industry and Poverty

The fashion industry frequently faces criticism for stark inequalities, especially in fast fashion, where low wages and exploitative labor conditions continue cycles of poverty. Luxury brands like Balenciaga, which typically cater to wealthy consumers, possess the power to drive change by supporting initiatives that target poverty and hunger. Balenciaga’s partnership with the WFP exemplifies how the industry can transform from contributing to the problem to enhancing the solution. By focusing on global hunger, Balenciaga addresses one of the most direct impacts of poverty.

Balenciaga and the World Food Programme Partnership

Balenciaga first partnered with the WFP in 2018, launching a collection featuring the WFP logo on t-shirts, hoodies and bags. The brand committed a portion of the sales from this collection to support the WFP’s mission to eradicate hunger by 2030. This partnership aimed to raise funds and enhance visibility for the global hunger crisis, engaging fashion-conscious consumers who might not typically connect with humanitarian causes.

The WFP, the largest humanitarian organization dedicated to fighting hunger, assists more than 150 million people across 120 countries. Through emergency food aid, school meal programs and initiatives to improve food security, WFP addresses hunger in some of the world’s poorest regions. Balenciaga’s high-profile partnership has raised awareness of these efforts, demonstrating how luxury fashion can drive positive change. The funds from this partnership support communities in need, helping alleviate poverty by ensuring access to essential resources.

Fashion as a Tool for Change

Balenciaga’s partnership with the WFP extends beyond financial contributions, elevating the issue of global hunger to mainstream conversations, especially among those previously unaware of its extent. Consumers who wear items from the WFP collection become advocates for the cause, using fashion as a means to initiate discussions on global hunger and poverty. This collaboration demonstrates that fashion can serve as a potent tool for advocacy, challenging the perception that luxury brands are detached from real-world problems. As the fashion industry evolves, more brands are expected to emulate Balenciaga’s approach, leveraging their influence to support humanitarian efforts.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between Balenciaga and the World Food Programme highlights a shift in how luxury brands can contribute to addressing critical global issues. By raising funds and awareness, this partnership demonstrates the potential for the fashion industry to engage actively in the fight against poverty and hunger. As more brands explore similar initiatives, the role of fashion in promoting social causes could become a more integrated part of the industry’s future, driving meaningful change on a global scale.

– Viola Cuthbertson

Viola is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Aboriginal Poverty in Australia

Aboriginal Poverty in AustraliaAccording to the Parliament of Australia, about 30% of Aboriginal households currently live in income poverty. Programs such as the Community Development Employment Projects, Community Housing and Infrastructure Program and the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs are working to change that.

A Background in Aboriginal Colonization

On Jan. 26, 1788, British colonizers established the first colony in Australia, naming it New South Wales and comprising convicts and leaders from the Royal British Navy. They declared the land property of Great Britain’s King George III. This event marked the beginning of suffering for Aboriginal peoples, as diseases such as syphilis, smallpox and the flu spread rapidly. At the time of the colony’s establishment, an estimated 750,000 Aboriginal people inhabited the island. By 1789, nearly half of the Aboriginal population in the Sydney Basin had succumbed to smallpox.

Aboriginal Poverty and Employment Disparities

Poverty among Aboriginal people is especially severe in remote areas of Australia. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework reports a significant disparity in employment rates between Aboriginal and non-Indigenous populations. For Aboriginal individuals, the employment rate is 32%, compared to 58% for non-Indigenous people. In 2021, this gap was pronounced among those aged 15 to 24, with Aboriginal employment at 52% and non-Indigenous at 75%. The disparity widens among those aged 25 to 44, where Aboriginal employment increased from 51% in 2016 to 56% in 2021.

Aboriginal poverty rates continue to be alarmingly high, with welfare dependency prevalent in these communities. Nearly half of the adult Aboriginal population receives some form of welfare aid, as reported by the Australian Parliament. Furthermore, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare indicates that 43% of Indigenous adults earn a gross weekly income of just under $500. While there has been some progress in narrowing the income disparity, significant gaps remain. In 2011, the gross weekly household income difference between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians was $379. By 2016, this gap had decreased to $332 and by 2021, it further reduced to $316, showing a gradual but steady decrease in income inequality.

Educational Disparities

In 2001, national benchmark tests revealed a nearly 20% difference in the literacy levels of Aboriginal and non-Indigenous students. According to the Australian Parliament, in year three, 72% of Aboriginal students achieved minimum reading standards, whereas the number for the entirety of year three students was 90.3%. The Australian Council for Education Research stated, “Without success in literacy and numeracy, young Indigenous Australians will continue to face difficulty in remaining at school to complete year 12, entering university and other post-school education training.” Lacking the proper education makes employment difficult, so the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs created the National Indigenous English Literacy and Numeracy Strategy in 2000.

Initiatives in Indigenous Communities

Between 2016 and 2021, the median weekly household income for Aboriginals increased by 18%, compared to an 11% increase in other households, as reported by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The strategy for improving Indigenous communities’ education and health focuses on six key areas: enhancing school attendance, addressing hearing issues, resolving health problems, correcting nutritional deficiencies and enriching preschool experiences. These ongoing efforts are part of the National Indigenous Education and Lifestyle Strategy (NIELNS), which aims to tackle the underlying causes of Aboriginal poverty by enhancing education and health outcomes.

The Community Housing and Infrastructure Program (CHIP) allocates funds for community and public housing for Aboriginal people in Australia and it also provides municipal services. Additionally, the National Aboriginal Health Strategy directs funding toward housing, specifically targeting more rural and remote Aboriginal communities.

Looking Forward

While programs addressing Aboriginal poverty have seen gradual success, ongoing efforts remain essential for creating meaningful, long-term improvements. The disparities in income, education and employment between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians continue to pose significant challenges. With targeted initiatives focused on education, housing and infrastructure, there is hope for sustained progress. Overcoming these deeply rooted inequalities potentially requires continued dedication and comprehensive support across all levels of society.

– Maya Renfro

Maya is based in Chicago, IL, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty in Rajasthan: Reduction Measures

Poverty in RajasthanRajasthan, situated in Northwestern India, is the seventh most populous state in the country, boasting a population of 69 million people. While The Multidimensional Poverty Index Report of 2023 highlights Rajasthan as having one of the steepest declines in poverty in India, 10 million people are still living below the poverty line. To combat poverty in Rajasthan, the government has meticulously targeted problem areas, focusing mainly on improving the health care sector and rural areas, where more than  75% of the poor population live.

While the percentage of poor in Rajasthan has successfully declined from 28.86% in 2015-2016 to 15.31% in 2019-2021, according to a 2023 report, it is important to note that discrimination towards those living in caste communities remains abundant, with many being denied poverty-alleviation measures. The work of Self Help Groups (SHGs) and independent programs such as BHOR are aiding both urban and rural communities to combat poverty, as well as focusing on previously neglected minority groups.

Free Medicine and Tests Scheme

India has one of the highest out-of-pocket health expenditure levels, with citizens spending around 65-70% of their income on health care. More than 90% of households do not have health insurance for one or more members, meaning access to basic health care is unobtainable for the majority of impoverished people.

In 2011, the Rajasthan government introduced the free medicine scheme to enable free access to commonly-used, essential medicines for patients using government healthcare institutions. Rajasthan has approximately 1,828 medicines accepted under the scheme, providing treatment for a variety of illnesses like cancer, kidney and heart problems. The scheme operates in both major cities and rural areas, improving accessibility and establishing better health care for the largely poor population which occupies these rural localities.

To ensure the smooth running of the scheme, the government created The Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation Limited (RMSCL), ensuring the enforcement of quality control measures and the efficient distribution of medicines to all health facilities within the state. The number of free medicine beneficiaries recorded between 2011 and 2017 was approximately 524 million people, highlighting the extremely positive impact of the scheme on those previously unable to afford such treatment.

Tackling Rural Poverty

The majority of the poor population occupy rural areas of Rajasthan, and approximately 65% depend on agriculture for their livelihood. Farmers, particularly smallholder farmers, are extremely vulnerable to crop losses due to the lack of resources and natural disasters. With many impoverished individuals relying on crop yield to sustain a living, the government has introduced initiatives to improve crop productivity and therefore income for farmers.

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a subsidized crop insurance scheme covering all farmers in the event of crop yield losses due to non-preventable risks such as drought, floods, natural disasters and pest and disease attacks. It charges a minimum premium from the farmers, while the state and central governments support the remaining share. Rajasthan boasts a higher national average in insured area per farmer, stressing its importance and effectiveness in protecting farmer livelihoods.

Poor yields and crop failure are often a product of monoculture farming which has long dominated parts of India, therefore diversifying the selection of crops has been pivotal in reducing the rapid spreading of disease and increasing overall yield and income for rural farmers, according to the Copenhagen Census Center. Providing a more diverse selection of crops has also expanded market opportunities, by offering a vast selection of products and reaching a wider range of buyers.

Self-Help Groups

Launched by The World Bank, The Rajasthan Rural Livelihoods Project (RRLP) aims to increase the income of poor people, through social empowerment, community investment support, skills development and employment promotion. The project also included the mobilization of people into Self Help Groups (SHGs). SHGs have been salient in helping improve the financial and socio-economic status of rural communities, specifically for women. Income generation and delivering micro-credit has helped women achieve financial independence, allowing them wider access to finance and encouraging asset creation.

Rural projects such as this have been principal in empowering minority groups, in this case poor women, but it must be noted that Caste discrimination in Rajasthan still runs rife. Dalit women, a group typically belonging to one of the lowest castes, make up around one-fifth of Rajasthan’s population, yet reports show no implementation of state-sponsored schemes for training or giving credit access to Dalit women.

BHOR

Established in 2019 by the Rajasthan Skill and Livelihoods Development Corporation (RSLDC), the BHOR program operates in the city of Jaipur to provide street beggars with vocational training and employment opportunities, with the long-term goal of making Jaipur a begging-free city. Its rehabilitative approach provides education and training in a variety of skills and jobs such as electricity, plumbing and cooking. While the focus of the program is on the training of individuals, it also provides recruits with accommodation and physical training through exercise like yoga. BHOR has seen huge successes, with 64 people subsequently finding employment with organizations such as Akshay Patra, Fortis Hospital and Hotel Shahpura Residency in 2022.

Final Word

As Rajasthan continues to navigate its way to becoming poverty-free, addressing outstanding issues of the discriminative caste system, which remains prevalent in Indian society, is imperative. The work of government initiatives, alongside the resilience of smaller SHGs and rural communities, has proven the possibility of a poverty-free state in the future, facilitating hope and future growth for other states.

– Sofia Bowes

Sofia is based on the Isle Of Skye, Scotland and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Being Poor in Thailand: Life of the Urban Poor in Bangkok 

Being Poor in ThailandThailand has a poverty rate of 12.2%. Urban informal settlements or slums are places where a majority of urban poor dwell in many places worldwide. When zooming into Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, a total number of 300,000 households live in informal settlements across 1,500 communities. Being poor in Thailand often means residing in an informal settlement.

Khlong Toei

Urban sprawl is projecting threats of eviction and homelessness to informal settlements. Khlong Toei, the largest informal settlement in Bangkok and home to 100,000 people, is the next preferred site for upscale development. Current residents are offered affordable housing options in a residential tower, with only 13,000 available units. The rest of the residents will disperse into the margin of the city, away from their jobs and communities.

Fire hazards are also threatening the lives of residents in Khlong Toei. Due to the low to non-existent fire control infrastructure and the crowded nature of the settlements, fire has become a constant concern in the communities. Fire destroyed 30 homes in 2017 and this is one small event following a history of constant fire and explosions at the settlements.

Water Access

Being poor in Thailand, one often feels the powerful nature of water. Water pollution creates compound effects that make life in informal settlements even more challenging. Waste disposal has buried and polluted the canals that used to be the arteries of the city, making the informal settlers highly prone to vector-borne diseases.

Lack of access to fresh water and flood-control infrastructure has aggravated the environmental stress of living with the residents. Public health conditions related to sanitary water supply is a major concern in Bangkok’s informal settlements. Insufficient sanitary infrastructure and pricey protective equipment could be among the reasons why residents were could not carry out basic COVID-19 prevention activities, according to a 2022 research article.

Solutions

Nonprofit organizations have been assisting the urban poor in Khlong Toei. Founded in 2020, Bangkok Community Help Foundation has been working with residents, addressing sanitation issues, while providing essential supplies daily. Its help spans from housing projects to waste dump conversion. Latterly, help has extended to medical supplies during COVID-19 and survivor bags that pack preserved food supplies, covering 3,000 meals per day.

Urban informal settlements are not only hosts of self-built resilient communities but arts and crafts that would otherwise be lost. Many urban informal settlers in Bangkok work as street hawkers, vending homemade food and crafts, supporting a culture of vibrant street scenes that attract domestic and international visitors to Bangkok every year.

Residences of these urban informal settlements are facing drastic life-threatening challenges. NGOs and volunteers are working on addressing some of the public health and safety concerns, and it is calling for governmental and international aid to improve the quality of life and opportunities of urban dwellers.

– Yuhan Ji

Yuhan is based in Cambridge, MA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Tackling Poverty Through Education in the Middle East

Education in the Middle EastEducation is a key determinant of economic stability and growth. In the Middle East, where poverty levels are high, access to education can significantly affect an individual’s economic prospects. According to Maher Hamoud, a professor of political economy at the University of Leuven, Belgium, “People tend to be easily manipulated when the level of education is low.” However, the relationship between education and poverty is not merely about individual empowerment; it also affects broader sociopolitical dynamics.

Hamoud notes that “a serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation” to see significant societal changes. Unfortunately, the political instability in many Middle Eastern countries often disrupts long-term developmental planning, leading to inconsistent progress. For example, the 1967 Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel severely interrupted Egypt’s educational programs, demonstrating how conflict can derail efforts to improve schooling and, by extension, economic stability.

Current Educational Programs

Several initiatives throughout the region aim to address disparities. The World Bank’s Arabic Initiative focuses on improving the quality of education in the Middle East. This program emphasizes curriculum development, teacher training and technology integration in the classroom to provide students with the skills needed to compete in a globalized economy.

Amideast is another crucial player in the region. It offers academic opportunities that promote cross-cultural understanding and scholarly achievement. By providing professional training, English language instruction and scholarships, Amideast helps students from underprivileged backgrounds access quality education and improve their economic prospects. The organization’s initiatives have benefitted more than 1,900 exchange and scholarship students and empowered 19,000 youths and women through special programs.

Save the Children, known for its work in crises, has also been instrumental in the Middle East. The organization runs programs that provide schooling to youth in conflict zones, ensuring that even in the most challenging circumstances, young people have the opportunity to learn. These initiatives are crucial in regions where conflict and displacement have disrupted traditional education systems.

New Possibilities to Bridge the Inequality Gap

While existing programs have made significant strides, much work still exists to ensure all youth have access to quality education in the Middle East. One promising approach is the implementation of cash transfer programs, which provide financial incentives for families to keep their children in school. Cash transfer programs give money to increase a household’s income, reduce poverty and improve well-being. They have been successful in other regions and could help reduce economic barriers in the Middle East.

Investments from governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are also essential. Hamoud highlights the importance of sustained efforts, noting that “governments tend to avoid seriously investing in education.” He points to examples like Singapore, Malaysia and Kuwait, where long-term investment in education has led to significant improvements. Similar commitments in the Middle East could yield substantial benefits, facilitating a more educated and economically stable population.

Digital solutions offer another route for expanding educational access. Online learning platforms, mobile teaching initiatives and cyber classrooms can reach students in remote areas or conflict zones. These technologies can also standardize education across the region, ensuring that all students have access to the same high-quality resources. Despite physical and logistical challenges, today’s technology offers avenues to bridge inequality.

Looking Forward

Access to education in the Middle East is critical in reducing poverty levels. While current programs have made significant contributions, there is still a need for innovative solutions and sustained investment. With new possibilities such as cash transfers, investments and digital solutions, the region can work toward a future where every child can receive a quality education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Hamoud pointed out, “A serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation.” With the right strategies, the Middle East can make significant strides toward alleviating poverty and achieving long-term economic stability.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Ray of Hope for Visually Impaired Women in Afghanistan

Women in AfghanistanAfghanistan, a country in Central Asia, has been affected by conflict for at least five decades. Years of war have not only destroyed the country’s infrastructure but have also had a profound impact on the physical and mental health of its inhabitants, as well as deteriorated the human rights situation, especially for women in Afghanistan.

Disabilities in Afghanistan

The prevalence of disabilities in Afghanistan has seen a significant increase, primarily attributed to the ongoing conflict, widespread destruction and the lack of accessible medical facilities. The 2019 Model Disability Survey revealed that around 80% of the population aged 18 and above experiences some form of disability, with women disproportionately affected, experiencing a 14.9% higher impact compared to men. Afghanistan has one of the highest numbers of people with any form of disability per capita in the world. This situation is exacerbated by widespread poverty, limited access to education and health care, minimal job opportunities and cultural stigmatization.

Visual Impairment

A report published by The Fred Hollows Foundation has estimated that 1.5 million individuals in Afghanistan are living with some form of visual impairment, with 600,000 of them experiencing complete blindness. A report published in The Kabul Times has indicated that many of these individuals are women. This data underscores the significant impact of visual impairment, particularly among women, in Afghanistan.

In Afghanistan, women face substantial discrimination. They are particularly vulnerable due to limited access to education, minimal job opportunities and economic freedom. These challenges are exacerbated when women also have a disability, as they face even greater levels of marginalization and discrimination in the form of physical and emotional abuse and social isolation.

Ray of Hope

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), in partnership with the Welfare Association for the Development of Afghanistan (WADAN), has launched a project in two provinces in eastern Afghanistan. The project focuses on teaching braille, basic math and essential life skills such as cooking and using a cane. Additionally, the project provides psychosocial counseling to empower women to address daily societal challenges and confront violence. In 2022, the project benefited 90 women, with another 200 women currently enrolled, offering them hope for the future. UNHCR and WADAN plan to expand the program further.

The Rayhab School for Children with Disabilities is another initiative supporting disabled Afghans. The school offers primary education, food and transportation for blind, deaf and speech-impaired boys and girls from impoverished families in Kabul. The school welcomes more than 400 children daily, with 40% of them being girls.

The current efforts to address the situation in Afghanistan are commendable, yet they are insufficient compared to the enormity of the issue. Despite this, they serve as a beacon of hope for millions impacted. 

– Maria Waleed

Maria is based in Yokohama, Japan and focuses on Good News, Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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5 Organizations Improving Lives in Georgia

5 Organizations Improving Lives in GeorgiaGeorgia, straddling Eastern Europe and Western Asia, boasts a rich history and cultural heritage but faces substantial socio-economic challenges. The country struggles with persistent poverty, as many families barely meet basic needs due to scarce economic opportunities. High unemployment, especially among young people, perpetuates poverty and curtails opportunities for future generations. In rural areas, access to quality health care is severely limited by the scarcity of medical facilities and professionals. Although education is highly valued, it often receives insufficient funding, leading to a lack of resources and support for students and teachers. Here are five organizations improving lives in Georgia by providing essential services, fostering economic growth and improving living conditions.

The United Nations Children’s Fund Georgia

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Georgia focuses on improving the lives of children and their families through various programs in health, education and child protection. The organization’s initiatives include comprehensive immunization campaigns to combat preventable diseases, early childhood development programs that foster healthy growth and learning from a young age and efforts to ensure access to quality education for all children. UNICEF’s targeted interventions have not only significantly reduced child mortality rates but also led to improved educational outcomes, such as higher school enrollment and literacy rates, for thousands of children across the country.

Caritas Georgia

Caritas Georgia, part of the global Caritas network, provides humanitarian assistance and social services to vulnerable populations, including those affected by poverty and social exclusion. Its programs encompass health care services such as medical check-ups and emergency treatment, social inclusion projects that promote community integration and specialized support for the elderly and disabled. By operating multiple centers that offer medical care, vocational training and food assistance, Caritas Georgia helps individuals and families overcome adversity, improve their quality of life and achieve long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

World Vision Georgia

World Vision Georgia is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, through targeted interventions in education, child protection and economic development. The organization’s community-based programs not only advocate for child rights but also provide essential educational support, such as school supplies and scholarships and empower families with economic opportunities like microloans and job training. These ongoing efforts foster resilience and self-sufficiency among families, enabling them to build a better future for their children and improve overall community well-being.

Georgia Red Cross Society

The Georgia Red Cross Society is committed to delivering emergency response, health services and support to vulnerable groups across the country. The organization’s activities include disaster preparedness and response initiatives that equip communities to handle natural and man-made emergencies, first aid training to enhance public safety and social assistance programs that address immediate needs such as food and shelter. By playing a critical role in disaster management and community resilience, the organization ensures that those in need receive timely and effective support, helping to mitigate the impact of crises on affected populations.

Caucasus Environmental NGO Network

Caucasus Environmental NGO Network (CENN) focuses on environmental protection and sustainable development in the South Caucasus region, addressing pressing environmental challenges through a variety of initiatives. Its work includes reforestation projects that restore degraded landscapes and improve air quality, sustainable waste management practices that reduce pollution and promote recycling and environmental education programs that raise awareness about conservation issues. By advocating for eco-friendly practices and engaging communities in environmental stewardship, CENN contributes to the preservation of Georgia’s natural resources and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods for future generations.

Looking Ahead

These organizations and many more exemplify the power of dedicated, compassionate interventions in improving lives and communities in Georgia. Through their diverse programs and unwavering commitment, they address critical needs such as health care, education, economic development and environmental protection, fostering sustainable development and creating a brighter and more inclusive future for all Georgians.

– Benjamin DeMarais

Benjamin is based in Rogers, MN, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty and Diversifying Production in India

Diversifying Production in IndiaDiversification of production implies a shift from crop farming to nonfarming activities. Diversifying production in India has employed millions of small and marginal farmers. It has helped them navigate sustainable ways of making a livelihood. Nonfarming activities, including but not limited to animal husbandry, fisheries and horticulture farming, have been sustaining farmers in India throughout the years by serving as alternative sources of income.

Animal Husbandry

Animal Husbandry, also known as livestock farming, refers to the rearing of animals for meat, hide, milk and other products. India has one of the largest livestock populations in the world, serving as an alternative source of sustenance for a large number of farmers throughout the country. More than 20 million workers in India are engaged in livestock farming and 87.7% of livestock is owned by “farmers of marginal, small and semi-medium operational holdings.”

Under the Government of India, the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying incentivizes subsidies to farmers to set up their own livestock farms and gain more income. Since a large portion of India’s farming population is multidimensionally poor, it is advantageous for them to indulge in livestock farming because livestock can be reared by extremely low-income families as well.

The only risks involved in animal husbandry are the chances of livestock diseases. Though many diseases affecting livestock are curable, the focus of treatment is mostly on larger livestock and smaller livestock is often ignored. However, steps are being taken by the government and other charitable organizations to immunize livestock by employing women to nurse them back to good health without farmers having to incur any extra costs.

Fisheries

Fishing is a large-scale activity in India and employs more than 28 million people nationwide, “especially [those from] marginalized and vulnerable communities.” As of 2024, under the administration of the Department of Fisheries, more than 26,000 fishing facilities, 6,498 replacement boats, 586 cold storages and 720 Fish Farmers Producers Organizations (FFPOs), among others, have been approved by the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

The PMMSY was established in 2020 to regulate the functioning of the fisheries sector in India. The Department of Fisheries has also approved more than 59,000 fisher families to get “livelihood and nutritional support during fishing ban/lean period.” Alongside this, the Department also supports farmers during circumstances of loss of fish stock due to natural calamities.

Horticulture

Approximately 43% of India’s population is employed in the agricultural sector. Horticulture is a type of agriculture that encompasses the farming of fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants. The horticulture sector in India “provides alternate rural employment opportunities, diversification in farm activities and enhanced income to farmers.” Transitioning from agriculture to horticulture is, however, a difficult task for farmers because horticulture happens to be labor-intensive and therefore entails more capital requirements.

Government schemes like the Operations Greens help farmers overcome this burden by assuring Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their produce, which would thereby “help to a great extent in shielding farmers from external variables.” The focus is placed on increasing farmers’ incomes by guiding the gains of their horticultural produce.

Additional Remarks

In 2018-19, the Government of India extended credit facilities to fish farmers and animal husbandry farmers, enabling them to meet their working capital requirements. Such efforts by the government and other organizations have helped uplift farmers from a bare minimum to a more comfortable flow of income. Diversifying production in India through the three sectors mentioned above significantly contributes to the growth of the Indian economy. It simultaneously serves as an additional means of rural employment.

– Adya Umesh

Adya is based in Bangalore, Karnataka, India and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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The Path to Poverty Reduction in South Korea

Poverty Reduction in South KoreaSouth Korea has adopted a long-term, comprehensive, multifaceted approach to reducing poverty, integrating government initiatives, technological innovations and international cooperation. These strategies have resulted in significant improvements in the country’s economy, education and infrastructure, making South Korea “the 12th largest economy in the world.” Here is information about poverty reduction in South Korea.

Economic Growth and Poverty

Since the end of the Korean War, South Korea’s economy has expanded, turning it from a low-income nation into a major player in the world economy. According to the World Bank, South Korea’s real gross domestic product (GDP) increased by an average of 5.7% each year between 1980 and 2023. Moreover, its gross national income (GNI) per capita swiftly advanced from $67 in the early 1950s to $33,745 in 2023.

South Korea faces challenges in addressing relative poverty, especially among senior citizens. The Human Rights Measurement Initiative (HRMI) ranks the country among the bottom three OECD countries in terms of relative poverty rates. For people aged 65 and older, South Korea has the highest relative poverty rate in the OECD.

Human Rights and Social Outcomes

On the other hand, the HRMI gives South Korea a positive score in ensuring basic rights such as food and health for its people. The right to food is 97.3% of what should be possible with South Korea’s GDP per capita, indicating that the majority of the population has adequate access to food, according to the HRMI.

However, the organization also notes that the right to work is less adequately addressed, with South Korea scoring only 74.4% of its potential in ensuring employment. This disparity is due to the high rate of relative poverty and the significant gap between regular and non-regular workers.

Government Policies and Welfare Programs

In recent decades, poverty reduction in South Korea has become more prevalent largely due to various government policies on enhancing social welfare and labor reforms. Social spending has increased significantly, quadrupling as a percentage of GDP from 1990 to 2015. The current administration has continued this trend by raising the minimum wage and expanding welfare budgets, according to the HRMI.

However, South Korea’s social spending still remains relatively low compared to other countries in the OECD. According to the HRMI, social spending in 2020 was only 10.4% of GDP, far below the OECD average of 21.6%.

According to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the South Korean government has implemented various initiatives to stabilize the economy through fiscal policies, regulatory reforms and measures to manage inflation and stabilize prices. These policies create an environment that is conducive to business growth and job creation.

Expansion of Social Safety Nets

South Korea’s efforts to expand its welfare programs since the late 20th century have continued to this day. These enhanced safety nets aim to provide comprehensive economic support and safeguards to vulnerable populations. In particular, many of these programs focus on providing tailored health care, pension benefits and direct financial aid to senior citizens and rural residents, promoting equitable growth and development.

However, despite the expansion of these safety nets, relative poverty among vulnerable populations in South Korea remains an issue to this day. For example, the 2022 OECD Economic Survey of Korea reports that the average pension paid by the National Pension Service was only the equivalent of a third of the country’s minimum wage. Such factors have contributed to the ongoing high rate of relative poverty found by the HRMI in South Koreans aged 65 and older.

The international dimension of South Korea’s poverty reduction strategy applies active participation in global economic forums and hosting significant events like the World Bank’s 21st International Development Association (IDA) replenishment meeting. In only six decades, with the help of the IDA and World Bank, South Korea has transformed from an IDA recipient to a contributor that is now positioned to support the development of other countries.

The Future

South Korea’s journey from a war-torn nation to an economic giant is a testament to its resilience and effective policy-making. The government’s integrative approach to reducing poverty within the country through innovative policy-making, technological advancements and international cooperation has demonstrated rapid success.

However, there is still room for further improvement. The ongoing refinement and expansion of South Korea’s social spending, labor reforms and targeted poverty alleviation programs are still essential to ensuring sustainable poverty reduction in South Korea and improving the social outcomes for all its people.

– Sophia Lee

Sophia is based in Media, PA, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr