Archive for category: WHO

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Progress Toward Universal Health Coverage

Universal Health CoverageThe World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2025 tracking report on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) indicates that several challenges persist in the complex process of health care reform. However, improvements have been made across the board toward UHC in most countries and further progress is possible.

Universal Health Coverage: Goals and Challenges

Universal Health Coverage has been recognized as an important component of the 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a set of 17 goals adopted by United Nations (U.N.) member states for attainment by 2030. SDG 3 aims to ensure health and promote well-being for all people. According to the report, “UHC means that all people receive the health services they need without facing financial hardship.”

According to the WHO, as of 2021, 4.5 billion people (more than half of the global population) were not covered by essential health services. Even those who do receive essential coverage may experience financial hardship when using it, partly due to high out-of-pocket (OOP) costs. These costs are often catastrophic for households already struggling with or threatened by poverty.

According to the 2025 monitoring report, low-income countries have made the fastest progress towards UHC. However, these countries still have the furthest to go before reaching UHC goals. Low and middle-income countries are especially vulnerable to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which, according to the WHO, pose a significant threat to health in countries without adequate health care.

Common NCDs include cardiovascular diseases, cancers and chronic respiratory diseases. According to the WHO estimates, nearly three-quarters of NCD deaths occur in low and middle-income countries.

Progress Persists

Several countries have made significant progress toward UHC. A 2023 article in Exemplars in Global Health (EGH) reports on the steps countries such as Thailand, Ethiopia and Ghana have taken toward achieving UHC. These case studies suggest that adopting UHC is only one step toward equitable, affordable and accessible health care for all.

They underscore the importance of an integrative, holistic approach when reforming an entire health care system.

Thailand’s Investments in Primary Health Care Pay Off

Thailand’s journey with health care reform has illustrated the importance of strengthening primary health care systems alongside the adoption of a UHC program. When the country launched its UHC program in 2002, it responded to rising demand by investing heavily in its public health workforce, sharply increasing the number of doctors, midwives and nurses.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emphasized the central role of primary health systems (PHS) in achieving UHC. He says investments in PHS are “the most inclusive, equitable and efficient path to UHC.” PHS can improve the distribution of care across both rural and urban areas.

In contrast, heavy investment in hospital-based care can concentrate health workers in cities. A collaborative study by the World Bank and the Government of Japan supports this finding. The study surveyed 11 countries at different stages of progress toward UHC.

It found that progress is typically incremental and highly context-specific, with shared challenges and a need for sustained political commitment and tailored policies to expand coverage.

Ethiopia Commits to Equity in Health Care

Ethiopia’s gains toward UHC have come with a commitment to equity, as reflected in its recognition of women’s specific health care needs. This has been realized through the development and expansion of services and resources. These include family planning, prenatal care, birthing facilities and qualified women’s health professionals such as birth attendants and obstetric care providers.

These areas of care were a key focus of the country’s 2003 Health Extension Program. According to the World Bank, the program has played a central role in the country’s strong progress in improving health outcomes and expanding coverage.

Decreasing OOP Costs in Ghana

Ghana offers another example of progress toward UHC. The country’s National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which is heavily subsidized by taxes and a national health insurance levy, makes care free at the point of service. According to the EGH, NHIS has reduced OOP costs for insured individuals.

However, the scheme covers less than 70% of the population. The poorest households remain the most vulnerable to OOP expenses that can be financially catastrophic. The article also notes that medical bills are not the only factor straining households.

Other costs, such as transportation, diagnostic tests and lost income from time away from work, can also undermine a family’s financial stability and overall well-being.

Final Remarks

These case studies show what health care reform can achieve when there is a commitment to equitable care, practical and integrated approaches and a willingness to adopt and adapt new strategies.

– Emma Kelsey

Emma is based in St. Paul, MN, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Surpassing WHO’s Goal To Eliminate Cervical Cancer in Rwanda

Cervical Cancer in RwandaOn February 1, 2025, Rwanda launched a mission entitled Mission 2027, where they are trying to sustain a goal of reducing the number of cases of cervical cancer in women in Rwanda. This goal aims to reach fruition three years ahead of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) mission of 2030.

Rwanda is a country in East Africa with a population of around 14.26 million people. Famous for its scenery, exceptional tea and coffee, rich culture, and wildlife. Despite these positive reinforcements, Rwanda struggled for a long time with its health system and keeping women in Rwanda safe against certain diseases, particularly cervical cancer.

In the late 2000s, cervical cancer became a major health concern for people living in Rwanda because life expectancy for people grew, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were more prominent. With this in mind, cervical cancer became a high priority to stop in Rwanda, and it became the first country in Africa to launch free HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination in 2011. The steps that government and health care workers are taking, and have taken, have given Rwanda the ability and steps to stay on track with Mission 2027.

Mission 2027, also known as the Accelerated Plan for Cervical Cancer Elimination 2024-2027, is just how it sounds. It is a national strategy to eliminate cervical cancer three years before the World Health Organization’s goal for the world by 2030. This program includes expanding vaccination, having advanced screening and improving access to treatment.

History of Cervical Cancer in Rwanda

Cervical cancer is the most common cancer that exists in women in Rwanda, followed by breast and stomach cancer. According to the WHO, cervical cancer ranked fourth for the most common cancer in women in 2022. In 2023, the Global Cancer Observatory estimated 866 new cases of cervical cancer, with 609 deaths.

Some of the most difficult steps in eliminating this disease are getting women to screen for the disease, not just getting the vaccination. One of the biggest blockades of this was the 1994 genocide that left the health system of Rwanda in shambles.

The genocide had an estimated 800,000 people murdered, in the span of 100 days, including the majority of health care workers, like doctors and nurses, who either died or fled the country. This incident hurt an already struggling country with its health care, especially during a time where their rates of cervical cancer were growing and are continuing. The use of wartime rape as a method against women did not help the growing numbers of cervical cancer and HIV.

Ever since this incident, the Rwanda government has been working towards rebuilding the health care system and prioritizing health for people. Cancer care for people in Rwanda is continuing to grow with the opening of the Butaro Cancer Center of Excellence that was on July 1, 2012, from the collaboration with Partners in Health (PIH).

This service originated because there were not a lot of available cancer treatments in Rwanda for women to go to, along with a lack of treatment for women who received diagnoses. Taking the steps toward Mission 2027 has the ability to keep Rwandans grounded and help younger women stay healthier and get the treatment and care that they need.

Poverty and Cervical Cancer

Before the Rwandan genocide happened, the health care system of Rwanda was extremely weak. The hospitals that already existed were too expensive for the average citizen and were not located where the majority of people lived, which is the rural regions.

After the Rwandan genocide, the Rwanda health care system became more strained and almost too far gone. The genocide destroyed more than 80% of the health infrastructure along with most doctors fleeing the country or dying in attacks. The genocide interrupted vaccinations and prenatal care, along with many other programs, and had little to no coverage.

Despite the hardships that Rwanda faced after the genocide, health care became pushed to the front for the public and the government. According to an article from Harvard, the use of genocidal rape increased the spread of HIV/AIDS and cervical cancer, which brought to light the lack of clinicians who could address the health issues on the ground.

Rebuilding the Health Care System in Rwanda

The RPF-led government rebuilt the shattered health care system of Rwanda. RPF, which stands for the Rwandan Patriotic Front, prioritized the training and provision of local health care workers in each of Rwanda’s villages. Ever since the RPF pushed their focus for creating a more stable health care system, vaccinations for cervical cancer have increased to more than 90% coverage for girls.

Rwanda has continued to maintain this high number of vaccinations since 2011, along with implementing a system where four health care workers are elected in each of the 15,000 villages in Rwanda. The RPF even prioritized the building of rural health centers, where the majority of people in Rwanda live.

All of these changes and developments occurred with the establishment of Mutuelle. Mutuelle offers insurance at an average U.S. cost of $2 with a guaranteed out of pocket cost of up to 10%. This number changes for the wealthier in the country, but Mutuelle covers 91% of Rwandans, compared to less than 7% of the population in 2003.

Steps To Eliminate Cervical Cancer

According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the World Health Organization launched a plan entitled 90-70-90 as part of Mission 2027 to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030:

  • 90% of girls are fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by age 15.
  • 70% of women are screened with a high-performance test by 35, and again by 45 years. 
  • 90% of women identified with cervical precancer or cervical cancer receive adequate treatment and care.

Once a country reaches a certain threshold of cervical cancer cases being below four per 100,000 women to years, that is when a country is considered to have eliminated cervical cancer.

Mission 2027 has already passed many milestones; 93% of girls in Rwanda are vaccinated, 31% of women screened and 81% of women with precancerous lesions and cervical cancer are receiving treatment.

Despite the setbacks that Rwanda has faced over many years, these setbacks are what is keeping Rwanda on the right track to accomplishing Mission 2027. Rwanda continues to showcase its resilience and passion for helping its people and keeping its health system up to date. With the perseverance of the government in Rwanda, and working closely with the WHO and many hospitals, women are at a point where they can get the help that they need and keep their health taken care of.

– Elizabeth Fryer

Elizabeth is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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South-South Cooperation: Shaping a Sustainable Future

South-South CooperationSouth-South cooperation, which offers solutions through solidarity, is key to helping developing countries build collective self-resilience and promote more sustainable and equitable economic growth. In a globalized world, South-South Cooperation tackles the urgent development challenges the Global South faces through cross-country collaboration spanning the economic, social, political, and environmental spheres. Since its establishment, South-South cooperation has flourished over the decades, with trade among the developing countries amounting to $5.3 trillion in 2021.

In fact, trade flows between developing countries have surpassed trade flows between developing and developed economies. While trade between developed countries has decreased by almost 15% since 1995, trade among countries in the Global South has increased by 14.1%. Between 2000 and 2021, the loan portfolios of South-led development banks also rose significantly. It went from $7.2 billion to $73.4 billion, a tenfold increase.

Promoting Clean Energy and Job Creation

India’s demonstration of converting unused cotton plant parts into clean energy and creating employment opportunities for participants from African countries is a notable example of South-South cooperation.

As India strode towards clean energy, entrepreneurs began utilising the unwanted parts of crops for renewable energy. Instead of setting the waste on fire, a practice that has led to pollution, India has set up more than 500 briquetting plants. Briquetting is a process of converting unused plant parts into clean fuel by forming pellets or briquettes as a substitute for coal and wood.

UNCTAD report highlighted the untapped potential of briquetting in Zambia, where farmers could earn an additional $3 million each year by processing cotton waste into briquettes. Not just Zambia, but cotton farmers globally could greatly benefit from the production of this renewable energy.

Therefore, in 2019, UNCTAD offered officials from Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe the opportunity to visit India and develop a better understanding of the technology. UNCTAD chose India because its cotton production resembles that of these countries, making the technology and equipment adaptable.

South-South Cooperation and the Pandemic

Over the past few years, the converging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising global food and energy insecurity, and the climate crisis have had a profound impact on the world. For countries in the Global South that were already vulnerable, the high inflation and slowed economic growth in the post-pandemic period, along with droughts, fires, and floods that the climate emergency has brought about, have made things considerably more difficult. In Southeast Asia, the pandemic pushed 4.7 million people into extreme poverty. It undermined the region’s economic and development progress, leading to millions losing their job during the pandemic’s peak.

While there has been a strong recovery, with a 4.6% increase in GDP growth in 2024, millions still face job insecurity and unemployment. As developing countries grapple with these changes, South-South cooperation fosters more sustainable economic growth by driving collective self-resilience.

Promoting Decent Work

The ILO ProSSCE-ASEAN is a project actively working to counteract the post-COVID economic backsliding in the Global South and to achieve decent work for all, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 8.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) launched the Promoting the Global Development Initiative with a focus on South-South cooperation in Employment in ASEAN project in partnership with the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China. In Cambodia, the project has partnered with the government and local organisations to connect close to 150,000 young people and marginalised groups to high-quality jobs since 2023.

In Indonesia, the project launched a four-tiered training program to improve job matching by training more than 3,000 public employment counsellors across the country and implementing labour market programmes that are inclusive and gender-responsive. Following the success of the programme in Indonesia, the ILO is set to expand the four-tiered training to other countries in Southeast Asia.

Strengthening South-South Health Cooperation

The pandemic disproportionately affected women and children, particularly in the developing world. It led to a reversal of progress in maternal health, which is a key indicator of health.

In response to this, the World Health Organization (WHO) partnered with the Health Development Partnership for Africa and the Caribbean (HeDPAC) to foster South-South health cooperation between the regions. The initiative brought together countries from Africa and the Caribbean to exchange innovative primary health care solutions, with a focus on maternal and child health.

As the world continues to navigate crises, South-South Cooperation provides a strong framework that encourages solidarity, knowledge sharing, and mutual support among developing countries. Its initiatives aim to foster development based on fairness and resilience, creating an inclusive and sustainable world.

– Priya Doshi

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

Photo: Flickr

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mRNA: A Key Breakthrough in Developing an HIV vaccine

mRNA: A Key Breakthrough in Developing an HIV vaccine The human immunodeficiency virus, more commonly known as HIV, is one of the most widespread diseases in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), HIV affects 40.8 million people around the world as of the end of 2024, and in 2024, HIV killed a total of 630,000 people. This article looks at the populations most at risk for HIV, as well as a new study that could lead to an HIV vaccine.

Populations At Risk

While anyone can contract HIV, certain groups face disproportionately higher risks due to social, economic and structural factors. Globally, key populations include gay and bisexual men, sex workers, people who inject drugs and transgender individuals—groups that often encounter stigma, limited access to health care and higher exposure to risk. The southern area of Africa has the highest rates of HIV, with the countries of Eswatini and Lesotho having the highest rates in the world at 27% and 20.5%, respectively. These statistics help paint a better picture of the people that HIV affects the most, as well as point to the need for an HIV vaccine.

HIV Vaccine: Developmental Progress

Recently, researchers published a new study in Science Translational Medicine. According to The Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), the tested vaccine uses an mRNA structure similar to the COVID-19 vaccine that could provide cells with the necessary information to fight an HIV infection by creating a membrane-bound version of HIV that would be easier for cells to fight, and develop an immune response that would take effect if it ever came into contact with HIV.

After successful tests in animals, human trials started. While some of the participants developed a rash as a result of the vaccine, the results were overall effective, with many people developing the necessary antibodies to fight against HIV. Overall, the tests proved that there is at least a path forward to developing an HIV vaccine. However, actions by the U.S. government led to a loss of funding, which could stall the progress of an HIV vaccine. But the progress so far shows that an HIV vaccine is possible in the future.

Looking Ahead

HIV remains a major global health concern. The recent mRNA-based study demonstrates that an HIV vaccine is within reach, offering hope that continued research and support could one day lead to a breakthrough capable of saving millions of lives worldwide.

– Charlie Means

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

Photo: Pixabay

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Facts About Poverty in the Balkans

poverty balkansWithin Europe, the Balkans region often ranks the highest in terms of poverty rates and income inequality. Much of the region has only just recently begun to recover from the turmoil and violence that eclipsed the Balkans in the 1990s, and the region as a whole still lags behind the income rates and development of nations across the whole of Europe. With this in mind, to help better understand the poverty of the region, here are a couple of facts about the poverty in the Balkans.

“The Poorest Places in Europe”

When measured, the poverty in the Balkans is in the double digits. Breaking it down by country: 33% of Macedonians live in poverty; 30% of Kosovans live in poverty; and 20% of all Serbians and Croatians, or one in every five, live in poverty. The Balkan nations are some of the poorest nations in Europe. Albania, as an example, had “the lowest standard of living and the lowest per capita income in all of Europe.”

The Yugoslav Wars could be some of the reasons for poverty in the Balkans. Among other things, the war could be a catalyst for the rise in poverty, and the shrinking of the middle class the region has experienced since. The loss of previously established social services following the war’s start further exacerbates these trends.

Interestingly, despite the high poverty rate, there’s very little “youth crime,” or street/gang crime, in the region. There is also very little “common law crimes” that occur: crimes like murder, theft, and so on. However, there is still a large amount of organised crime, owing to the region’s geographic vulnerability, being in-between the markets of Europe and the Middle East.

Government Organizations Working to Combat Poverty

The World Bank provides loans to Balkan municipalities in order to improve infrastructure, and UNICEF has programs designed to support early childhood education. The European Union, meanwhile, works to reduce poverty via its “South Eastern Europe 2020 Strategy,” according to the European Western Balkans.

The Social Dimensions Initiative (SDI) is an international campaign that aims to advance social policy within Western Balkan countries. Founded by the European Fund for the Balkans (EFB), the initiative aims to advocate on behalf of social and employment policies within the Western Balkans, whilst also promoting regional cooperation, both between Balkan entities and the members of the SDI.

CARE Balkan

CARE Balkan is an initiative specific to the Balkans region, focusing on providing humanitarian assistance to the Balkans region since 1993. Its goal is “to ensure that the social, economic and political rights of vulnerable and marginalized groups are recognized and fulfilled, contributing to sustainable peace in the region.” The organization achieves this through several programs focusing on conflict prevention, peacebuilding, gender equality and prevention of gender violence.

Although poverty in the Balkans appears strong and at times overwhelming, initiatives and organizations are working to combat it. Both international organizations, such as the World Bank, UNICEF, and the European Union, work to invest in the Balkans region, whilst advocacy campaigns such as SDI work to promote and strengthen these initiatives. It is through these campaigns that poverty in the Balkans can be truly combated.

– Caelan Caukin

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

Photo: Flickr

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The State of Lebanon’s Medical System

The State of Lebanon’s Medical System Lebanon’s medical system faces immense strain as ongoing conflict with Israel has led to widespread damage to health care facilities and personnel. Israeli airstrikes across the country—particularly in southern Lebanon and Beirut—have severely impacted the health care sector, which continues to struggle to rebuild. Reports indicate that 63% of health transports and 26% of medical facilities have been affected. Previously regarded as one of the strongest health care systems in the Arab world, Lebanon’s medical infrastructure now faces severe limitations in providing adequate care.

Impact on Medical Infrastructure and Personnel

The conflict has resulted in repeated strikes on hospitals and medical centers across Lebanon. Between October 2023 and November 2024, 226 health workers and patients lost their lives, while another 199 suffered injuries. Although international humanitarian law protects medical facilities during armed conflicts, Lebanon’s health care workers have endured significant casualties and disruptions. The Rafik Hariri University Hospital in Beirut, the city’s largest medical facility, sustained heavy damage from an airstrike. Reports indicate that 13 people were killed and more than 60 others injured, further diminishing Lebanon’s ability to provide critical medical care.

Health Care System Under Economic Strain

A weakened economy had already placed Lebanon’s health care system under significant pressure before the war escalated. As of May 2024, 44% of the population lived in poverty, with rates reaching 70% in Akkar, one of the country’s poorest regions. A prolonged liquidity crisis devalued the Lebanese pound, making it increasingly difficult for hospitals to purchase essential medicines, retain medical staff or maintain equipment. Many public hospitals struggle to function due to a lack of financial resources.

International Aid Organizations

Several international organizations continue to provide medical aid, transport and disease prevention programs, working to preserve access to health care across the country.

  • International Organization for Migration (IOM). Since 2006, the IOM has focused on medical and psychological support for Palestinian and Iraqi refugee communities in Lebanon. During the conflict, IOM facilitated medical transport for more than 4,000 people, assisted in rebuilding health facilities and launched telehealth programs to ensure continued patient access to care. A cholera prevention campaign was implemented in response to concerns about potential outbreaks due to deteriorating sanitation infrastructure.
  • International Medical Corps. Operating in Lebanon since 2006, the International Medical Corps supports a network of 50 health care clinics and dispensaries. The organization provides disease prevention programs, patient consultations and medical treatment for displaced and vulnerable populations. Health awareness initiatives have also been implemented to educate residents on preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
  • Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières – MSF). The psychological toll of war remains a growing concern in Lebanon. Doctors Without Borders currently operates two mental health helplines, providing psychological support to those affected by the ongoing conflict. Reports suggest that two-thirds of Lebanese citizens are experiencing mental health disorders due to war-related trauma. The demand for psychiatric care and counseling services continues to rise, placing additional strain on an already fragile health care system.
  • KSrelief. The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has played a crucial role in providing health care services to Syrian refugees in Lebanon. At the Akkar-Bebnine Health Care Center, 2,689 patients received medical treatment in December 2024 alone. KSrelief’s contributions have been essential in addressing the medical needs of displaced communities who otherwise have limited access to health care services.

Future Prospects

At the beginning of 2023, Lebanon’s Ministry of Public Health introduced Vision 2030, a long-term strategy aimed at revitalizing Lebanon’s medical system. However, the ongoing conflict has severely hindered its implementation, making immediate health care recovery efforts more urgent. International organizations and humanitarian groups continue to provide critical support, but Lebanon’s health care sector remains under immense strain. Rebuilding medical infrastructure, securing funding and addressing the long-term psychological and physical health consequences of the war remain significant challenges. Continued international aid, government intervention and economic recovery efforts could play a crucial role in determining the future of Lebanon’s medical system.

– Charley Dennis

Charley is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Disability and Poverty: Barriers to Education and Health Care

Disability and Poverty: Barriers to Education and Health CareChildren with disabilities face significant barriers to education, health care and economic opportunities, particularly in developing countries. Studies indicate that children with disabilities experience poverty at nearly three times the rate of their peers without disabilities. They are also 50% less likely to attend school and 25% less likely to receive medical care, making disability both a cause and consequence of poverty. These disparities highlight the urgent need for systemic solutions to ensure children with disabilities receive equal access to essential services.

How Disability and Poverty Intersect

Families caring for children with disabilities often face higher costs for medical treatment, assistive devices and specialized education. In low-income countries, where disability resources are limited, these families struggle to meet their children’s basic needs. The lack of accessible schools forces many disabled children into isolation, depriving them of an education and future employment opportunities. Estimates suggest that 10% of children with disabilities do not receive basic rights such as education, health care or legal protection. In many cases, government policies fail to address these needs, leaving families without adequate support. Without systemic intervention, these children remain trapped in cycles of poverty, unable to access opportunities that could improve their quality of life.

Global Efforts to Address Disability and Poverty

International organizations play a crucial role in advocating for children with disabilities. The World Health Organization (WHO) leads initiatives to educate the public on disability rights and push for policy changes that promote inclusion. WHO also supports the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS), implemented in 2019, which provides a global framework for integrating disability rights into development efforts. In addition to global advocacy, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) address disability and poverty at a local level.

Accomplish Children’s Trust, a United Kingdom (U.K.)-based nonprofit, focuses on medical intervention, education access and income generation for children with disabilities in Uganda and Malawi. Many of these children previously lacked access to health care and schooling, but the organization works to integrate them into support systems that improve their long-term well-being.

The Role of NGOs in Reducing Disability Inequality

  • Community-based Approaches. Unlike large global institutions, NGOs often focus on local solutions tailored to community needs. By involving local leaders and residents, they create sustainable programs that continue without relying on long-term external aid. This grassroots approach helps address immediate challenges while fostering long-term systemic change.
  • Small-Scale, High-Impact Interventions. Smaller organizations, such as Accomplish Children’s Trust, have made measurable differences despite limited resources. The trust has facilitated physiotherapy and occupational therapy for 3,500 disabled children at Kyaninga Child Development Centre, provided epilepsy medication to 700 children and helped 356 children enroll in school—90% of whom had never attended school before. Additionally, 200 families receive financial support to care for their disabled children.
  • Targeting Key Risk Factors. Children with disabilities are at higher risk of malnutrition, disease and unemployment. Many NGOs address these risks by providing health care services, advocating for inclusive education policies and supporting vocational training programs. These efforts not only improve the quality of life for disabled children but also increase their future economic independence.

The Importance of Awareness and Policy Change

Governments and international organizations have begun increasing efforts to address the challenges faced by children with disabilities. While progress has been made, raising awareness remains critical to ensuring disability rights receive sustained attention. Increased public engagement could drive policy changes, secure funding and expand successful programs to reach more children in need. Addressing disability-related poverty requires coordinated efforts from governments, NGOs and the global community. Investments in accessible education, health care and employment programs could not only improve the lives of children with disabilities but also contribute to broader economic and social development.

– Kaleb Monteith

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

Photo: Flickr

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Improving Health Care Accessibility in Developing Countries

Improving Health Care Accessibility in Developing Countries Approximately 1.2 billion people live in acute, multidimensional poverty across 111 developing countries. Many suffer from preventable and curable diseases due to limited access to health care services. According to a Geneva report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), 56% of rural residents do not have access to essential health care services. Currently, 800 million people allocate at least 10% of their household budgets to health expenses for themselves, a sick child or another family member. For nearly 100 million people, these expenses are substantial enough to push them into extreme poverty, forcing them to survive on $1.90 or less per day. Globally, many countries collaborate with the World Health Organization (WHO) to provide essential health services to the most vulnerable and needy populations.

Implementation of Telemedicine in Cambodia

Implementing telemedicine in Cambodia has significantly improved health care accessibility, largely through initiatives like Operation Village Health, part of the broader Village Leap program. This program, established by Japan Relief for Cambodia and American Assistance for Cambodia, aims to rehabilitate the country after the Khmer Rouge reign and the Vietnam War by bringing technology to rural areas. Operation Village Health uses this infrastructure to support local health workers, build capacity and provide medical care to those without expertise. An email-based telemedicine program established in 2001 allows Harvard-affiliated physicians to offer clinical recommendations to Cambodian health workers, enhancing the quality of care in remote areas.

Mobile Clinics in Madagascar

Since June 2022, mobile clinics have been crucial in improving health care accessibility in Madagascar. Funded by the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund, 20 mobile clinics have been reaching remote and hard-to-access areas, providing essential health services to around 1 million people. These clinics have been especially vital in restoring health care services, such as vaccinations, following the destruction caused by cyclones Batsirai and Emnati, which destroyed more than 150 health facilities and left 800,000 people without access to health care. Staffed by trained health professionals who travel by various means, these mobile clinics have provided care and vaccinations and strengthened epidemiological surveillance and the detection of vaccine-preventable diseases in isolated communities.

Training Health Care Workers in Liberia

Training health care workers in Liberia through the Last Mile Health’s From Response to Recovery program has significantly improved health care accessibility. This initiative focused on building resilient health systems by investing in community and frontline health workers. Over three years, the program strengthened the National Community Health Assistant Program, rolled out a digital training platform and developed online educational resources for health system leaders. Additionally, it advocated for integrated community health worker systems, which improved the capacity to deliver essential health services, especially in remote areas. This approach enabled better health care access and quality for the communities in Liberia.

Investing in Health Care Infrastructure in Morocco

With the population steadily increasing in Morocco and a large segment entering an age group that typically requires more medical attention, demand for health care facilities, medical services and pharmaceuticals has surged. The Moroccan government has shown a strong dedication to upgrading health care infrastructure and services through initiatives like the National Health Plan (Plan Santé 2025). This plan offers long-term stability and support for the health care sector, creating a secure environment for investments. Investors can explore opportunities in public-private partnerships (PPPs) and other investment options in health care. This collaborative approach has led to the development of a robust health care system, ensuring better access to essential medical services for the Moroccan people.

Health Information Technologies in Nigeria

Utilizing health information technology, particularly through the adoption of electronic medical records (EMRs), is significantly improving data management and resource distribution in Nigeria, thereby improving health care accessibility in developing countries. By implementing EMRs, Nigeria’s health care system has seen improvements in patient care and overall health care efficiency. EMRs facilitate better data management, enabling health care providers to track patient histories, streamline workflows and reduce errors. Despite challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of training and limited funding, the Nigerian experience emphasizes the importance of government support and investment in technology and training. This approach not only addresses the unique needs and constraints of developing countries but also sets a precedent for other nations looking to improve their health care systems through advanced health information technology.

Looking Ahead

Improving health care accessibility in developing countries requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various barriers to quality care. The innovative strategies discussed, telemedicine in Cambodia, mobile clinics in Madagascar, community health worker training in Liberia, infrastructure investment in Morocco and health information technology in Nigeria, demonstrate the potential for significant improvements in health care delivery. By focusing on these targeted interventions, developing regions can potentially make significant advancements toward fair and effective health care systems. These ongoing efforts not only improve the quality of care but also foster healthier communities, facilitating sustained development and well-being.

– Maria Urioste

Maria is based in Maspeth, NY, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir to Reach 120 Countries

HIV Prevention Drug to Reach 120 CountriesAt the end of 2023, approximately 39.9 million people worldwide were living with HIV. An estimated 0.6% of adults aged 15 to 49 years globally are living with the virus. However, the impact of the epidemic varies significantly among countries and regions. Gilead’s new, affordable, twice-yearly lenacapavir (LEN) injection effectively prevents HIV, especially in women. On Oct. 2, 2024, the company announced licensing agreements to offer the drug at lower costs in 120 “high-incidence, low-income” countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) described this development as a significant advancement in combating the life-threatening disease, which affects roughly half its victims as women, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa.

HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir

Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable that provides pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. Earlier this year, a study in South Africa and Uganda revealed the drug’s high efficacy in preventing HIV among HIV-negative girls and women. Furthermore, another trial involving men in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Peru, South Africa, Thailand and the United States (U.S.) demonstrated nearly complete protection. Indeed, in the lenacapavir group tested, among women, there were no new cases of HIV infection and the trials revealed no significant safety concerns.

Pressure on Gilead from World Leaders

Following the publication of these findings, Gilead faced pressure from the People’s Medicines Alliance along with a group of 300 world leaders, celebrities, scientists and activists to make the drug available in middle- and low-income countries simultaneously as people in wealthier nations. Among the signatories were actors Gillian Anderson, Stephen Fry, Sharon Stone and Alan Cumming; former heads of state; and Francoise Barré-Sinoussi, a Nobel-winning scientist. In a letter addressed to the Gilead CEO Daniel O’Day, they pushed the company to open the license up to poorer nations immediately. Furthermore, they expressed their hope that the “groundbreaking” development could make “radically positive change for people facing stigma.”

HIV in Low-Income Countries

Gilead is prioritizing the registration of LEN in the 18 countries with the highest HIV incidence rates, in Sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia. These high rates stem from inadequate domestic and international funding, with natural disasters and regional conflicts complicating governments’ HIV response efforts. HIV prevalence is higher in specific population groups, including men who have sex with men, which fuels stigma around the disease. However, global efforts to increase treatment accessibility have yielded substantial progress over the past two decades. Currently, 29.8 million of the 39 million people living with HIV are receiving treatment. Indeed, this is a significant increase from 7.7 million in 2010.

Looking Ahead

In response to these promising findings, the WHO has announced it is actively developing guidelines in collaboration with experts and global partners to ensure an affordable supply and equal access to the drug. New pharmaceutical developments are emerging rapidly. HIV prevention drug lenacapavir presents a hopeful method of combating the disease in high-risk countries.

– Hannah Dunford

Hannah is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Foreign Aid Fueled Zambia’s COVID-19 Vaccination Success

Zambia's COVID-19 VaccinationZambia is a landlocked country in South-Central Africa. The nation has a reputation for political stability, avoiding the war and disruption that has dominated much of Africa’s post-colonial history. Despite economic growth, the daily lives of most Zambians have not improved in the last decade, with two-thirds of the population still living in poverty. Like every country across the globe, Zambia faced instability in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the country’s vaccination program exhibits the effectiveness and importance of international cooperation and donations when it comes to prioritizing global health.

Launch of Zambia’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program

In April 2021, Dr. Jonas Chanda, the Honourable Minister of Health for Zambia, launched the COVID-19 vaccination rollout. The United States Charge d’Affaires, at the United States (U.S.) Embassy, David Young, stated that the U.S. provided $2 billion to the Vaccine Alliance to support the COVAX. The Swedish Ambassador Anna Maj Huktgård congratulated the Government of the Republic of Zambia for achieving an important milestone in the response against COVID-19. She also took this as an opportunity to announce that the Swedish government was allocating a total of $259 million to support the COVAX program. The World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) worked in collaboration with other partners to support Zambia’s government in implementing the COVID-19 vaccination program.

International Contributions to Zambia’s Vaccination Efforts

In August 2021, the United Kingdom (U.K.) also donated 119,000 vaccine doses to Zambia through COVAX which arrived in Lusaka, as reported by UNICEF and the U.K.’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. In March 2022, the government of Japan, under an emergency partnership with UNICEF, officially handed over equipment aimed to strengthen the long-term capacity of the health system in Zambia, including the delivery of life-saving vaccines for COVID-19. This support included 82 solar-powered fridge freezers, 25 ‘on grid’ combo vaccine freezers, 120 large vaccine cold boxes and 200 vaccine carriers. This initiative was made possible through the COVAX facility, an international mechanism led by GAVI, CEPI, the World Health Organization and UNICEF to ensure equitable access to vaccines across the developing world. 

National Vaccination Campaign and Foreign Aid

Later that year, in October, the Government of the Republic of Zambia and partners, including the Centre for Disease Control (CDC), WHO and UNICEF, launched a 10-day national COVID-19 vaccination campaign targeting children aged 12 to 17 and adults 18 and above across the country. The nation had had clear goals in its fight against COVID-19, which foreign aid undeniably made possible.

Achievements and Continued Support

In November 2022, the Zambian government celebrated the nation’s achievement of vaccinating 70% of the eligible Zambian population. The U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the U.S Department of Defense have since provided nearly 1.9 billion kwacha ($120 million) to respond, prevent the spread of and recover from the toll of COVID-19 in Zambia. The U.S. government also supported integrating COVID-19 vaccination into HIV treatment centers to protect those living with HIV against COVID-19. 

Looking Ahead

Zambia’s successful vaccination program is a testament to the power of global cooperation. The generous foreign aid donations strengthened international relations and a shared commitment to prioritizing global health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, reveals what can potentially be achieved when the world unites for a common cause.

– Nia Willis

Nia is based in Carmarthenshire, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr