Archive for category: Poverty

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How Running Programs Are Reducing Poverty in Kenya

Poverty in KenyaRunning has always been a big part of life in Kenya, especially in rural areas, where long-distance running is just part of the culture. But over time, it has become more than just a sport. For many people, it has become a real opportunity and, in some cases, a way out of poverty in Kenya.

In places like Iten, often called the “home of champions,” runners train every day, hoping to compete at a higher level. What is different now is that there are more structured programs and training camps that actually support these athletes and give them a better chance of succeeding.

Running as a Pathway Out of Poverty

For many athletes, running starts simply. It is just part of daily life. But with the right support, it can lead to real opportunities. Training programs can provide coaching, meals and even housing, which helps take some of the financial pressure off.

One example is Kenya Experience, a program that allows runners to live and train in a high-performance environment alongside other athletes. It connects runners with experienced coaches, structured training and exposure to international competitions, which many would not otherwise have access to. Programs like this make a difference by allowing athletes to focus more on training and less on everyday struggles.

Over time, this can lead to opportunities such as competing in major races, earning prize money or even securing sponsorships.

Opportunities Beyond the Track

Success in running not only benefits the athlete. When runners begin to earn money from competitions or sponsorships, they often use that income to support their families. In many cases, one successful runner can help pay for school fees, housing and basic needs for several people.

So it is not just one person benefiting. It can impact an entire household and sometimes even an entire community. Running also creates opportunities beyond just competing.

Coaches, trainers and even local businesses benefit from the presence of training camps and athletes. Places like Iten have seen growth partly because of the running culture there.

Why Kenya Stands Out

Kenya has become one of the most successful countries in long-distance running and that success has helped build a system around the sport. Young athletes grow up seeing people from similar backgrounds succeed, which makes it feel more realistic. There are also more camps and programs now than before, which means more access to training and support.

Not everyone will become a professional runner, obviously, but the chance alone can change how people think about their future.

Looking Ahead

Running is not a complete solution to poverty in Kenya, but it does help create opportunities. For people in areas with limited job options, it can offer a different path. As more programs continue to grow and connect athletes to greater opportunities, running will likely remain an important part of economic growth in certain communities. It is not perfect, but for many people, it is a start.

– Aaron Scott

Aaron is based in Charlotte, NC, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women-Centered Approaches: Countering India’s Gender Gap

India's Gender GapIn the past century, research and individual experiences have revealed the vast impact of gender inequality on women worldwide. India’s poverty landscape reflects this reality. As a result, experts and policymakers consistently stress the importance of reducing India’s gender poverty gap.

The recent COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted earlier progress and deepened disparities between men and women. Many women, including those who were the sole breadwinners of their families, lost their jobs. This subsequently led to more families being pushed below the poverty line.

Since then, the issue has called for strategic initiatives and approaches to address the widening gender inequality in India.

India’s Gender Gap in Poverty

The poverty gender gap in India is deeply rooted and begins affecting women from birth. A 2021 study conducted by the World Bank found that among children from low-income households, the number of girls was higher than that of boys. While the study uses data from more than 90 countries, the difference mainly occurred in India. 

Moreover, this difference only persists in the older age groups. The International Labor Organization (ILO) discovered in 2022 that Indian women earn 20-30% less than their male counterparts. Additionally, social impediments, such as the nature of jobs, complicate women’s efforts to achieve financial independence. 

Other societal differences, such as class and caste, further widen the gender gap. One study, focusing on Scheduled Castes (SC) and on Urban versus Rural poverty, from 2021 identified this difference. The study states that SC women earn only 55% of what women from other castes earn. 

Additionally, there also arises a difference within this subset when considering urban and rural differences. SC women in urban areas earn slightly more than their rural counterparts. However, it remains lower than that of urban women from other castes. Furthermore, according to another 2023 report, female-headed households showed higher odds of becoming urban poor than male-headed households. 

Why Are Women Becoming More Vulnerable to Poverty?

When analyzing the reasons behind India’s gender gap in poverty, several causes come to light. As mentioned earlier, social impediments pose a major difficulty for women. For instance, in Indian society, women often work as domestic help, as in other countries. Domestic work, apart from paying less, is also not included in the national GDP. 

This indicates that women’s earnings go unaccounted for in national and international statistics. Relatedly, due to the existing patriarchal model, women also face difficulties due to male-favoring inheritance laws. Studies showed that only 13% of women in India own agricultural land, compared to men. Due to the aforementioned laws, women find it harder to gain control of their assets. 

However, one of the major drivers of rising poverty among women is limited access to education. In India, school dropout rates are often alarmingly higher among girls than boys. Early marriages in families residing below the poverty line result in many women not having their high school diplomas. 

The Indian Ministry of Statistics and Program Implementation (MOSPI) released a detailed education report in 2016. In this report, females account for higher numbers in nearly every category of student dropouts aged 5 to 29, with only a few exceptions. Additionally, according to the 2020 census, the female literacy rate was 70.3%, 14.4 percentage points lower than the male literacy rate of 84.7%. The lack of education hinders a wide range of opportunities that could help women become financially independent. 

Government Initiatives and Programs Aiding Women in Poverty

Women’s empowerment has been an integral part of the Indian government’s agenda in the last few decades. From abolishing Sati to providing education for girls, Indian lawmakers have always focused on opening new avenues of concession for women. While there are implementation issues, the government provides funding for new women-centered initiatives every year. 

In 2026, leaders announced schemes for girl child, for women entrepreneurs and capital development. The “Lakpathi Didi Scheme” aims to help women in self-help groups earn more than $1,000. This strategy, when effectively implemented, can alleviate poverty largely among women. 

Another economic development initiative, the Trade Related Entrepreneurship Assistance and Development (TREAD) Scheme, aims to support the growth of women entrepreneurs. Under the scheme, the government enables eligible women to access business loans of up to $3,224 to establish their enterprises. 

Thirdly, officials also announced the “Stand Up India Mission,” focusing on lower-strata social groups. Women from the SC and the Scheduled Tribes are the target audience for this initiative. It provides loans ranging from $12,900 to $129,000. Through this, the government claims to cover nearly 75% of the production costs for these women’s startups.

Finally, in the spirit of providing financial security, parents of newborn girls can now open bank accounts offering high interest rates. This program, called the “Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana,” was launched as part of the Girl Child Scheme from 2015. 

Other Gender Gap Reduction Strategies

Experts and lawmakers have stated that reducing the gender gap requires more than a single approach. The above governmental schemes directly address women’s economic deficiencies, aiming to elicit long-term solutions. For this reason, world changemakers believe that education is a powerful tool for women’s empowerment.

Shivani Nithyanandhan is a member of Kongu Business Forum, a platform that aims to empower individuals in business in the Kongu region. She spoke to The Borgen Project about different strategies that could help women become financially secure. Speaking of education, Nithyanandhan stated, “Access to education and skill development is key. When women are equipped with relevant skills, whether in business, digital literacy or vocational areas, they gain the confidence and ability to earn independently.” 

Nithyanandhan also discussed the need for a supportive community for women in poverty to help them set up businesses. The Kongu Business Forum regularly conducts knowledge-sharing sessions to educate women about business opportunities in their locale. Since the Kongu region’s major source of income is agriculture, Nithyanandhan says that the forum aims to help women explore opportunities in agri-related enterprises.

Looking Ahead

India’s gender gap in poverty, similar to that of other countries, has received focus over the last few decades. While visible results do exist, women’s lack of awareness about upliftment schemes continues to hinder widespread growth. Nithyanandhan from the Kongu Business Forum discusses the need for financial and digital literacy that could help prevent this issue. 

She also discussed how women’s empowerment within impoverished populations can have a ripple effect. When educated and financially empowered, the female population can positively impact the growth of their community. In this manner, reducing the gender gap also contributes to reducing global poverty.

– Shafika Fathima 

Shafika is based in Chennai, India and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing the Hidden Poverty of Urban Slums in India and Kenya

Urban Slums in India and Kenya

Urban slums are home to millions of people in cities like Mumbai and Nairobi, where residents endure extreme poverty, overcrowded housing, poor sanitation and limited access to basic services. These informal settlements are often overlooked in poverty reduction efforts, leaving slum dwellers without essential support. Despite being central to the urban landscape, slums face challenges such as inadequate health care, limited educational opportunities and heightened vulnerability to environmental risks like flooding and landslides due to climate instability.

The Hidden Struggles of Slum Dwellers

In Dharavi, Mumbai, one of the largest slums in the world, is marked by overcrowding, poor infrastructure and a lack of sanitation. Families live in cramped, poorly constructed homes with minimal access to clean water and essential services. With little access to quality health care or education, slum residents are caught in a cycle of poverty that is hard to break. 

Kibera, another well-known slum in Nairobi, suffers from similar challenges. Despite being home to a large portion of the city’s population, these slums have inadequate access to safe water, sanitation and infrastructure and poor structural quality of housing. These communities are also disproportionately affected by climate instability. 

Without adequate drainage systems, flooding and other climate-related disasters worsen their already precarious living conditions. Residents also face constant threats of forced evictions, often stemming from insecure land tenure and government urban development plans, with many fearing displacement despite living on the land for decades. This problem is rooted in unequal land ownership and political-economic factors that prevent low-income populations from accessing land and securing decent housing.

Successful Policies and Initiatives

Despite these challenges, several successful initiatives have improved living conditions in urban slums in India and Kenya, thereby addressing poverty.

In India, the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) program seeks to improve slum conditions by promoting inclusive and equitable cities where every citizen has access to basic civic infrastructure, social amenities and decent shelter. This initiative is part of India’s broader goal of creating a “Slum-Free India.” Similarly, the Dharavi Redevelopment Project in Mumbai aims to redevelop the Dharavi Notified Area by appointing developers. The project uses land as a resource to rehabilitate slum dwellers and permits an incentive Floor Space Index through tenements sold on the open market.

In Kenya, the Kenya Slum Upgrading Program (KENSUP) focuses on improving living conditions in informal settlements. KENSUP focuses on constructing housing and infrastructure, managing the environment and solid waste and addressing health challenges. One key success is the Kibera Slum Upgrading Initiative, implemented in collaboration with U.N.-HABITAT. The initiative aims to improve infrastructure through targeted interventions.

Local organizations in Kenya, such as Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), have also been instrumental in improving access to health care, education and women’s empowerment programs. They are demonstrating how grassroots initiatives can complement government efforts. 

The Way Forward

For sustainable change, slum upgrading must be integrated into broader urban development plans. Governments need to implement policies that create economic opportunities, promote job growth and expand access to education for slum residents. Securing land tenure, investing in affordable housing and expanding public services such as health care and sanitation will provide a stronger foundation for residents to escape poverty.

Moreover, integrating slum improvement into urban planning requires addressing the socioeconomic needs of slum dwellers, including access to employment, education and basic services. It also requires tackling environmental challenges such as flooding and climate resilience. Governments should promote inclusivity by ensuring that slum residents have a voice in the planning process and that their specific needs are addressed. 

Building stronger partnerships among local governments, international organizations and community groups can help advance this vision.

Conclusion

Urban slums are home to millions of people living in extreme poverty. However, with targeted initiatives and community-driven solutions, significant progress is possible. Successful programs in India and Kenya show that improving living conditions in slums is achievable. 

By addressing both the physical and socioeconomic challenges of slums, stakeholders can begin to break the cycle of poverty in urban communities in India and Kenya and build more resilient and inclusive cities.

– Chris Tang

Chris is based in Beijing, China and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Substance Abuse and Poverty in India: A Vicious Cycle

Substance Abuse and Poverty in IndiaMost Indian films begin with a smoking or tobacco prevention advertisement. The stories in these ads primarily surround low-income families and occasionally a middle-income home. This inference stands as testimony to the common knowledge of the interconnection between substance abuse and poverty in India. 

These substances have led to serious addiction among young and old generations alike. They have also played roles in increasing fatal road accidents, criminal activity and, of course, poverty. Over the years, the government has focused on building rehabilitation centers and raising awareness among the public. 

That being said, the lower-income strata of the Indian economy still show higher risks of falling into substance abuse and the subsequent negative consequences. This has prompted the Indian government to give more attention to dismantling the nuances surrounding the issue. 

An Overview of Substance Abuse and Poverty in India

In the last two decades, several researchers have focused on the correlation between poverty and substance abuse. Substance abuse in the form of chewing tobacco, consuming alcohol and cannabis remained the point of study. Results suggest that populations residing below the poverty line are more prone to abusing and getting addicted to these substances. 

A 2016 PubMed study reported that 72% of abusers in its sample were laborers or individuals from lower-income strata. Furthermore, slum areas have emerged as key regions for substance abuse among children, including glue and other inhalants. Children often turn to these substances to cope with harsh living conditions, such as extreme cold or unsanitary environments.

Thirdly, substance abuse is also highly prevalent among convicted offenders. A 2025 study found that moderate substance users exhibited higher risks of criminal behavior, while low-level users showed lower risks of unstable or criminogenic traits. These findings highlight the harmful effects of substance use on impoverished communities and underscore the additional risk factors to which these substances expose vulnerable populations.

Substances as Cause and Effect of Being Poor

When looking at causative factors for the correlation of substance abuse and poverty in India, more complex aspects arise. Experts state that most tobacco and alcohol industries target customers from low-income families. They keep prices and accessibility cheap with discounts to facilitate affordability. 

Industry leaders present these substances as an escapism for people with low incomes from their harsh realities. Many studies state that people turn to substances as a coping mechanism to endure the hardships of everyday life. However, the result is that these substances further deteriorate living conditions. 

Statistics show that tobacco use increases the likelihood of a household being pushed into poverty by 3.4% to 3.7%. Furthermore, addicted individuals often spend large portions of their limited income on tobacco or alcohol. Addiction and increased substance use also lead to major diseases, such as cancer and liver cirrhosis. 

This, in turn, pushes households further into poverty, especially since these individuals are often the primary earners in their families. Thus, substance abuse both initiates and sustains a vicious cycle within impoverished communities in India.

Why Does Breaking the Cycle Matter?

A vicious cycle, such as the one between substance abuse and poverty in India, requires targeted attention. Experts say that breaking the cycle requires increased awareness and education. While the ideal solution would be the elimination of these substances, moderating use or preventing addiction can be a starting point. 

Intervention and awareness strategies remain the foremost requirement in combating substance abuse, which contributes to poverty. Over the years, the government has worked to include these topics in school curricula and many outreach programs exist today. Many NGOs also conduct regular awareness sessions in impoverished communities, educating people about the harmful effects of substance use.

These sessions play a vital role in raising awareness and caution among people exposed to these substances. Furthermore, governments and nonprofits have established numerous correctional and rehabilitation institutions to help those addicted to tobacco, alcohol and cannabis.

Governmental Schemes and Correctional Institutions

The Indian government has introduced several intervention strategies to reduce and mitigate the negative impacts of substance abuse. A detailed report published in 2023 explored the various programs launched in the last two decades, including the National Tobacco Control Program (NTCP). The NTCP, introduced in 2007–2008, works strategically to cover all regions of the nation. 

This task force takes a multifaceted approach to preventing tobacco addiction and abuse. It organizes awareness programs for the public, collaborates with schools to educate children and partners with NGOs to help affected individuals quit. The NTCP has also partnered with the WHO to set up 19 tobacco cessation clinics since 2005.

The report also states that the latest Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) shows a rise in smokers planning to quit, increasing to 55.4% from 46.6% in the previous GATS survey.

Looking Ahead

In India, as in any other country, experts describe poverty as a multifaceted problem requiring a multifaceted solution. Identifying pain points, such as the connection between substance abuse and poverty in India, helps officials address these issues with the right strategies. As a result, many individuals can break free from the harmful risks posed by these recreational substances and improve their lives.

– Shafika Fathima

Shafika is based in Chennai, India and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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New Paths: Migration to Georgia Is Changing the Story

Migration to GeorgiaMigration to Georgia is rewriting the country’s story; a story marked by people leaving for opportunity, others arriving in search of stability and a nation learning to grow through both movement and return.

Migration Statistics

In recent years, migration to Georgia has surged. In 2023, more than 245,000 people left the country, nearly twice the number from the year before, while about 205,857 people arrived. Most were of working age, according to Civil Georgia, meaning the movement reflects shifts in both labor and opportunity.

By 2024, Georgia recorded a small but positive migration balance: 135,811 people immigrated, while 121,425 emigrated. For the first time in years, Georgia gained more people than it lost, a subtle but hopeful sign for a nation long shaped by departures.

Economic hardship remains the main reason people leave. Many Georgians move abroad for higher wages, while others seek education or reunite with family members overseas. Yet the same openness that encourages travel also makes Georgia attractive to newcomers. Students, entrepreneurs and remote workers are drawn in by low living costs and simplified visa rules.

The dual flow tells two stories: one of aspiration and one of adaptation. Emigration can stretch families thin, but remittances often sustain those who remain. At the same time, immigration insinuates new energy, filling labor gaps and bringing cultural exchange that enriches the social fabric.

Migration and Poverty

For many families, migration to Georgia, whether incoming or outgoing, is directly tied to poverty. Workers abroad send home billions of dollars each year, providing relief from daily expenses and financing children’s education. According to the World Bank, remittances reached $4.06 billion in 2024, equal to more than 12% of Georgia’s GDP.

However, there’s a hidden cost. When working-age adults leave, communities lose labor, expertise and stability. Rural areas suffer most, as young people head abroad while older generations stay behind. The imbalance widens inequality and slows local development.

Yet migration can also become a lifeline. When returning, Georgians bring new skills or investments; they help create jobs, strengthen local economies and build resilience against poverty.

Building Solutions That Work

The government and its partners are working to make migration a tool for growth rather than loss.

  • Reintegration Programs: The Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons and Migration launched initiatives to help returnees start small businesses and access training opportunities.
  • Legal Migration Pathways: Developing secure work routes for foreign nationals helps formalize employment and prevent exploitation.
  • Diaspora Engagement: Encouraging Georgians abroad to invest in local enterprises channels global connections into domestic opportunity.
  • Youth Employment Programs: Expanding vocational education can reduce the push factors driving emigration.

These efforts are gradual but promising. With strategic investment and stronger protections, migration could serve as a bridge between local development and global integration.

A Shared Future

Migration to Georgia is not just about movement; it’s about connection. The same forces that push people to leave also bring others in, reminding the country that growth often comes from openness, exchange and return. If nurtured with care, migration can become one of Georgia’s greatest assets: a driver of innovation, inclusion and economic stability.

In a world constantly on the move, Georgia’s strength may lie not in resisting migration, but in learning how to make it work for everyone involved.

– Salome Jincharadze

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

Photo: Freepik

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Poverty in Guatemala: Hope in the Humble

Poverty in GuatemalaIn Guatemala, more than half the population lives in poverty. However, the statistics alone fail to capture the resilience and humanity of those affected. During spring break, The Borgen Project visited communities where survival is a daily endeavor and individuals like Bonita, a grandmother with a boundless work ethic, embodied strength in the face of adversity. Her story illustrated not just hardship, but a quiet dignity stitched together with grit and grace.

Poverty in Guatemala

As of 2024, 54.8% of the population of Guatemala was reported to be living in poverty. Nearly two-thirds of those individuals survive on less than $2 a day. These figures are staggering, yet they only hint at the lived realities behind them. Each number represents a person, a family and a community striving to endure and overcome systemic challenges.

A Firsthand Encounter

The Borgen Project interviewed Bonita, a Guatemalan grandmother raising her grandchildren alone after her husband’s passing. She operates a small store to support her family. Despite limited resources, Bonita welcomed visitors with warmth and generosity, offering food and soda without hesitation. According to a team member, “Bonita was the softest soul and worked for everything she had.”

In these communities, every member makes a contribution. Teenagers assist their families, older women assist with household chores and men labor in the fields. In places where missing work can mean missing a meal, rest is not a luxury—it’s a risk. Survival functions as a full-time occupation.

Clean Water, Clear Impact

Bonita received a water filter from the Filter of Hope organization. The moment marked a turning point, as access to clean water reduces illness, improves work attendance and offers a safer future for children. A team member recalled, “We gave her grandchildren cups of the clean water and they smiled so big it was something I will never forget.” The gesture underscored how basic resources can transform daily life.

Joy in Simplicity

Despite economic hardship, joy remains a constant presence in Guatemalan communities. Children played soccer in the streets using worn-out balls and improvised goals. One child used a plastic bottle as a toy, demonstrating that happiness often stems from connection and community rather than material possessions.

The visit highlighted the contrast between assumed necessities and actual privileges. Clean water, secure shelter and opportunity are not guaranteed for many. Yet dignity persists—not through wealth, but through perseverance and grace in the face of struggle.

The Illusion of Contentment

Gratitude is common among Guatemalans, but it often reflects limited exposure to broader possibilities. Poverty restricts more than material goods; it narrows perspective. Without access to clean water, its absence may not even be recognized as a deficit.

Approximately 70% of Guatemala’s employed population works in the informal sector, characterized by unstable income, limited benefits and slow long-term growth. Female labor force participation remains among the lowest in the region, at around 42%. These structural barriers hinder families like Bonita’s from reaching their full potential.

Why It Matters

Bonita’s story exemplifies the heart of Guatemala—marked by pride, love and resilience. Yet no one should have to endure such burdens alone. Organizations like Filter of Hope provide more than resources; they offer respect and recognition. Many communities have adapted to survive without assistance, but that should not be the expectation.

Poverty in Guatemala is not just a matter of numbers—it is a human issue. It affects mothers, grandmothers and children who deserve more than mere survival. They deserve the opportunity to thrive.

Resilience should not be mistaken for sufficiency. Strength does not negate the need for support and gratitude does not imply contentment. Bonita’s experience reflects millions of others. While she may never ask for help, her story calls for it because she deserves it. Because they all do.

– Marissa Schoth

Marissa is based in Benton, LA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Migration to India, Poverty and the Politics of Exclusion

Migration to IndiaMigration to India has long reflected a complex mix of geography, history and regional instability. From persecuted minorities in South Asia to economic migrants seeking work, India has, for decades, absorbed people crossing its borders. In many cases, this migration has offered a lifeline; safety, access to livelihood and new beginnings. However, in recent years, the politics of Hindu nationalism has reshaped how the country views migrants, deepening vulnerabilities and reinforcing cycles of poverty. Yet, amid these challenges, there remain examples of resilience and potential for a more inclusive approach.

1. A Historical Overview

India has historically hosted displaced populations including Tibetans, Afghans, Sri Lankan Tamils and Rohingya Muslims. While not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, India has traditionally adopted a pragmatic, albeit informal, approach to asylum. In many communities, local support networks, religious institutions and NGOs have helped new arrivals find their footing. This social infrastructure has allowed some migrants to gradually improve their living conditions, find employment and send children to school.

However, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) of December 2019, marked a key turning point. The law fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, excluding Muslims from its scope, thereby punishing them. Presented by the government as a humanitarian gesture, it draws criticism from citizens and groups for institutionalizing religious discrimination. Consequently, migration to India is increasingly becoming, not a matter of regional urgency or economic contribution, but a question of religious identity.

2. Exclusion and Statelessness

Among the groups most affected are Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar. Many came to India after fleeing violent persecution, hoping for protection. Instead, India detained or labeled them illegal immigrants. In 2024, Rohingya refugees in Assam held a hunger strike to protest indefinite detention. With no formal recognition of their status, access to housing, education and health care remains extremely limited.

For migrants without documents, whether due to fleeing conflict or bureaucratic exclusion, the result is a state of legal invisibility. Without proof of identity, the country denies them welfare benefits, government schooling and formal employment. This leads to entrenched poverty that is less about economic conditions and more about political choices.

3. Hindu Nationalism and the Narrative of Threat

What has shifted in recent years is not the scale of migration to India, but the narratives surrounding it. Hindu nationalist discourse presents Muslim migrants as demographic threats or infiltrators. In this environment, policies such as the CAA and the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC) serve to redefine national belonging.

In Assam, the NRC process has already left thousands, many of them poor and Muslim, stateless. These individuals now face the burden of proving their citizenship through documentation they may never have had. For those arriving in India today, poverty is no longer simply a backdrop; it is often the outcome of systematic exclusion.

4. Labor and Local Integration

Despite these obstacles, many migrants contribute meaningfully to India’s economy. In border states and urban centers, migrants work in construction, agriculture, domestic labor and small-scale manufacturing. Even in the absence of formal protections, many have managed to secure stable income over time. In cities like Hyderabad and Delhi, refugee communities have set up small businesses, language schools and community support services, often with limited resources but strong internal solidarity. 

These contributions challenge the dominant narratives of threat and burden. Instead revealing how migration to India can, when supported by thoughtful policy, contribute to local economies and social resilience.

5. Toward a More Inclusive Future

The path forward depends on how India chooses to balance national interest with humanitarian responsibility. A more inclusive approach would involve expanding legal protections, enabling access to documentation and ensuring that religion is not the basis for citizenship. Small policy shifts, such as temporary work permits, school access for children or municipal registration for housing, could significantly reduce poverty among new arrivals.

At the same time, civil society, legal advocates and local communities have shown that change does not depend solely on national policy. Grassroots efforts continue to offer legal aid, education and medical services to undocumented migrants. These actions, while limited in scale, show what is possible when dignity and inclusion are prioritized. While difficult to find structured organizations, there are groups helping the cause of migrants. For example “an Indian medical specialist who volunteered in several migrant-led organizations, such as a regional group and the Indian consulate-general medical committee, and has successfully helped repatriate bedridden patients and the mortal remains of deceased to India. He simultaneously partners in a law firm specializing in insurance cases for migrants who have met with accidents.” Although the motives of those helping are questionable and often selfish, they do eventually benefit migrants and those in need to a tangible extent.

Looking Ahead

Migration to India reflects both the region’s humanitarian need and the country’s political divides. For many migrants, it offers a last resort against persecution or poverty. Yet too often, their arrival is met with suspicion, exclusion and institutional neglect. Still, the potential for integration remains. Migration continues, but under policies that choose who gets dignity and who remains disposable. Unless these dynamics are addressed, migration will remain a mirror not just of poverty, but of the nation’s growing inequality.

– Maryam Qutbuddin

Maryam is based in Reading, UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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How the US-China Trade War Affects Trade in Indonesia

Trade in IndonesiaEarlier this year, the U.S. and China engaged in an all-out trade war as part of President Trump’s efforts to clamp down on what he called unfair trade practices by Chinese corporations. Since then, import tariffs have skyrocketed to a whopping 145%. International trade between the two countries has plummeted. Only recently have they agreed to ease a few of those tariffs.

While these developments hurt both powers, the impact of this tit-for-tat on developing countries and their ability to rely on stable trade with the U.S. and China is often overlooked. Indonesia offers a clear example of how these trade tensions ripple outward.

Indonesia as a Focal Point

Firstly, Indonesia trades with both nations. “Regarding exports, China and the U.S. are the first and third-largest trading partners for [Indonesia], respectively; regarding imports, China is its largest trading partner,” according to a study conducted by Bogor Agricultural University. Secondly, Indonesia is a prime example of how some countries won’t be able to adapt to the trade war while others will.

While some countries would benefit from the trade war due to production and manufacturing moving both outside the U.S. and China to avoid tariff rates, others, like Indonesia, would struggle to adapt to the tariff wars as they occur. This is largely because of low integration with the global value chain and the current trade structure in Indonesia, which heavily serves the Chinese and U.S. domestic markets. Using the country as a case study can show how this trade war can adversely affect developing nations.

Impact on Trade and Poverty

The tariff war between the U.S. and China has opened the door for several developing countries to fill the manufacturing gaps left behind. Countries like Thailand and Vietnam have boosted their exports due to the tariffs. At the same time, however, the trade war is indirectly dampening exports, as seen in Indonesia.

Due to its strong ties to both the Chinese and U.S. markets, Indonesia has experienced a decline in exports to both countries, with rising tariffs and broader economic fallout driving down demand. As a result, Indonesia has been more negatively affected than many other developing nations.

This decline in trade is also likely to affect Indonesia’s poverty rate. As demand continues to fall, the country may struggle to maintain downward progress on poverty. Reduced trade with developed nations like the U.S. and China could lead to job losses in labor- and export-heavy sectors such as textiles and electronics manufacturing.

Solutions

The Indonesian government is making several moves to reduce the impact of the U.S.-China trade war on the nation. One key effort is the government’s “Making Indonesia 4.0” initiative, which aims to harness advanced technologies to boost productivity and performance in the manufacturing sector.

Another potential solution is for the U.S. to sign a bilateral trade agreement with Indonesia. Indonesia has already taken steps toward this by proposing a limited trade deal with the U.S., which is expected to strengthen trade ties between the two countries. The deal aims to raise two-way goods trade from around $30 billion in 2019 to $60 billion in the next few years.

– Caelan Caukin

Caelan is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Ebbs and Flows: Rise of Poverty in France

Poverty in FranceFrance has historically been a paragon of development for the world. Historically, it has prospered economically, culturally, militarily and internationally. Despite all of this, despite the grandeur of the country’s past, France has struggled with poverty. For centuries, the poverty rate diminished, dwindled and sank between the folds of society. However, as of 2025, the issue has reemerged.

The poverty rate in France has climbed to 15.4%, the highest recorded since 1996. Wealth disparity is also widening, with a striking 20% gap between the richest and the most impoverished. This marks a steady rise from 14.4% in 2022. In 2025 alone, around 665,000 people fell into poverty. Poverty has reemerged in this developed nation, lingering like a persistent spectre of domestic hardship.

Context

The median standard of living has stagnated and relative prosperity persists despite inflation, governance and quality of life shifts. Meanwhile, the neediest segment of France has faced a steady decline in living conditions over the past decade, closely linked to cuts in housing benefits. Child poverty has also surged, with one in five children now living in destitution, largely due to housing reforms that disproportionately impacted single-parent households. In 2021, 22.8% of children were at risk of social exclusion, which remains unchanged. Many of these issues are the residual effects of policies enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These issues disproportionately affect migrants and their children compared to native French citizens. This disparity is primarily attributed to limited educational attainment, as many immigrants lack the formal qualifications held by their native counterparts. Additionally, scholars suggest that persistent poverty among immigrants is partly driven by language barriers, particularly the inability to communicate effectively in French. However, this issue extends beyond France’s immigrant population. Anyone below the poverty line faces the harsh reality of soaring inflation outpacing stagnant wages.

In addition, the Russian-Ukrainian War and subsequent European sanctions on Russian oil have driven up energy prices across France, with devastating consequences for many residents. As utility costs climb, more people cannot cover their bills, leading to evictions or entrapment in cycles of debt. Manuel Domergue, Director of Studies at the Foundation for Housing the Disadvantaged, noted: “Electricity and gas cuts for nonpayment are skyrocketing, the number of people who say they are cold in their homes has almost doubled and we are seeing a sharp rise in evictions.”

Solutions

In 2022, France passed a law raising the retirement age from 62 to 64, which worsened elderly poverty. However, numerous French political parties have called for repealing or reversing this law to ease the burden on an already vulnerable population. Alongside proposals to lower the retirement age, many parties also advocate expanding benefits for retirees. These initiatives aim to align pension payments more closely with the absolute poverty threshold.

Furthermore, in November 2024, France’s new minimum wage policy came into effect, raising the Salaire Minimum Interprofessionnel de Croissance (SMIC) by 2%. This adjustment aimed to offset the rising cost of living and rampant inflation, particularly affecting low-income earners. The government emphasized that the increase was part of a broader effort to narrow the income gap and strengthen social protections for vulnerable workers.

To address the surge in energy prices, the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) implemented a regulation to reduce the electricity sales tax. This measure is expected to lower monthly utility costs for a broad segment of French households.

Conclusion

France is suffering from increased poverty for several reasons, but all hope is not lost. With a robust social welfare and security foundation, France can alleviate these issues through substantial reform and reinforcement. The battle against poverty is being fought within the halls of the National Assembly and Senate by many political parties. Reaffirming historic social welfare policies will relieve many issues.

– Jackson Hufman

Jackson is based in Glenwood, MD, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and the Rule of Law in Venezuela

The Rule of Law in VenezuelaAt the heart of the crisis in Venezuela lies a deeper catastrophe: the collapse of the rule of law. Once a country of relative prosperity, Venezuela is now a fragile state where institutions no longer serve citizens, particularly people experiencing poverty. In 2024, Venezuela’s gross domestic product (GDP) per capita was $4,000, one of the lowest in Latin America.

The country also experienced one of the world’s highest inflation rates, rising consumer prices significantly. The consequences are not confined to its borders. From mass migration to regional instability, Venezuela’s collapse is a global poverty issue that cannot be ignored.

A Broken Justice System

Venezuela currently ranks last in the World Justice Project’s Rule of Law Index. According to the index, courts are politicized, the judiciary lacks independence and fundamental rights are routinely violated. Dissent is punished with arbitrary detention and torture and legal protections for the vulnerable have all but disappeared.

For those already living in poverty, this legal collapse is devastating. Without functioning institutions, workers can be exploited without recourse, communities lack public services and corruption goes unchecked. When the rule of law fails, poverty becomes entrenched.

A Regime That Fuels Poverty

The regime of President Nicolás Maduro has overseen the dismantling of democratic institutions and the collapse of the economy. Transparency International consistently ranks Venezuela among the most corrupt nations globally. Public resources are diverted to elites while health care, education and infrastructure are neglected.

Inflation reached 400% in 2023 and more than 80% of Venezuelans now live below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. The most impoverished households struggle to obtain food, medicine and clean water. This crisis is not just economic; it is political. The government’s refusal to allow reform or accountability sustains the systems that keep people poor. Aid efforts are often obstructed and humanitarian organizations face restrictions on their work.

The fallout from Venezuela’s collapse has sparked the second-largest migration crisis in the world after Syria. As of 2024, more than 7.7 million Venezuelans have left the country for safety and opportunity. Many have settled in neighboring countries like Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, where strained public systems struggle to accommodate them. This mass migration creates new poverty challenges in host communities, from overburdened schools to job market competition.

Migrants face their own vulnerabilities: exploitation, xenophobia and legal uncertainty. The crisis extends beyond borders, affecting the whole region and highlighting how fragile governance contributes to global poverty. Venezuela’s case reveals a broader truth: poverty thrives where the rule of law fails. Without functioning legal systems, enforcing labor rights, distributing aid effectively or combating corruption is impossible.

Final Remarks

Despite the repression, civil society organizations inside and outside Venezuela continue to document abuses, offer legal aid and support democratic movements. International watchdogs like Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International advocate for accountability. At the same time, diaspora-led groups aid migrants and lobby for policy change. These efforts are limited but vital. They keep the possibility of reform alive and help protect the rights of the most vulnerable.

– Charlie Baker

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

Photo: Flickr