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Givelight and Poverty in Cambodia

GivelightPoverty in Cambodia, deeply rooted in the Communist values of the Khmer Rouge and a long history of conflict, disproportionately affects the country’s youth. They must cope with scarce resources, limited shelter and few educational opportunities. A third of Cambodia’s youth suffer from hunger-induced stunted growth and related illnesses. Common diseases among these young people include malaria, which stems from unclean drinking water, respiratory infections and diarrheal diseases. Often due to dehydration, the latter could be mitigated with basic oral hydration therapy that remains out of reach for many communities.

Less than half of the youth in Cambodia receive a comprehensive education. Generational poverty compels older children and teenagers to start working immediately after primary school, perpetuating the cycle of poverty. The scarcity of teachers and inadequate governmental infrastructure further hinder access to quality education, which is crucial for pursuing successful careers and futures beyond Cambodia’s borders. Additionally, the high student-to-teacher ratio limits personalized attention and academic support. Many students in rural areas also lack the transportation needed to reach government schools, leaving them with options like work training, homeschooling or no education.

Givelight Foundation’s Role in Supporting Orphans

Recently, a representative from the Givelight Foundation, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared insights with The Borgen Project about the organization’s efforts in Cambodia. This nonprofit organization focuses on providing shelter and support to orphans across the country. Since opening a large orphanage in Cambodia in 2013, it now cares for more than 70 children. The representative described the acute challenges these children face, highlighting the scarcity of essential resources.

Anonymous shared that the children in the orphanage undergo thorough vetting and typically come from single-parent households or have no parents at all. Many enter the orphanage because their surviving parents cannot financially support them due to job insecurity, illness or unsafe living conditions. She also shared insights into the children’s daily activities and interests at home in Cambodia. The children enjoy participating in group games led by team leaders and supervisors. They are particularly keen on learning new Western games like Simon Says and various dance moves and they also love drawing, coloring and writing short stories and poetry.

Educational and Health Care Support

The orphanage has dedicated space specifically for learning, equipped with all necessary educational resources, including books that match the academic level of the children. It also provides school uniforms, textbooks, meals and writing materials to support their educational journey. After completing secondary education, children are encouraged to pursue higher studies with the help of available scholarships. On the health care front, the orphanage ensures that each child receives a monthly stipend to cover health-related needs. Due to stringent sanitation measures and routine vaccinations, most children remain healthy throughout the year. The stipend is distributed equally among all children, ensuring consistent support regardless of individual health changes.

Establishment and Expansion of the Orphanage

Despite numerous challenges in developing countries, Givelight and similar organizations strive to deliver comprehensive education and essential resources to children, aiming to break the cycle of poverty. Givelight operates in 13 countries and supports more than 1,000 orphans. Anonymous detailed the development of its facility in Cambodia, established in 2013, starting with a land donation that facilitated the registration of Givelight as a nonprofit. Identifying orphans in need within the region soon followed.

The organization then repurposed 2 hectares of rubber plantations for the orphanage, renovating the space to meet the children’s needs. She highlighted that this was one of Givelight’s initial projects and spurred further global expansion due to the clear need in various communities. The Cambodia orphanage has grown significantly with the support of full-time supervisors and teachers. Initially supporting 50 children, it has expanded its capacity and funding to accommodate more than 70 orphans, continuously enhancing their educational opportunities.

Additional Support for Cambodian Youth

Many organizations support marginalized youth, including Empowering Youth in Cambodia, which offers free quality education in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Serving students aged 6 to 24, the organization operates three community centers providing English and coding classes, libraries, scholarships and job training and placement. It emphasizes personal development through sports, art, music and leadership camps while also engaging in community outreach. Each school features a medical clinic accessible to the community and collaborates with local family planning clinics to assist women in the area.

Organizations like Caring for Cambodia run programs focused on providing food to youth in need. The Food for Thought initiative serves two daily meals to students enrolled in Caring for Cambodia’s educational programs. These meals encourage parents to send their children to school and significantly improve students’ focus in class. The meals typically include Manna Packs of fortified rice and protein, enhanced with fish sauce containing added vitamins and locally grown vegetables to boost nutritional value. These well-planned meals play a critical role in addressing widespread malnutrition among Cambodian youth.

Looking Ahead

Organizations supporting Cambodian youth are fostering critical changes by enhancing access to education, health care and nutritional support. Their initiatives provide vulnerable children with the resources needed to pursue better opportunities and escape poverty. By creating sustainable programs tailored to local needs, these ongoing efforts build a foundation for long-term community development and improved living conditions for future generations.

– Sophia Kharal

Sophia is based in San Jose, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Fight Against Child Poverty: UNICEF’s World Children’s Day

The Fight Against Child Poverty: UNICEF’s World Children’s DayWith an estimated 333 million children living in extreme poverty, World Children’s Day raises awareness and funds for children facing poverty and crises worldwide. Observed annually on Nov. 20, the World Children’s Day marks UNICEF’s global day of action and commemorates the anniversaries of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the United Nations (U.N.) General Assembly’s adoption of the declaration.

As a U.N. charity, UNICEF operates in more than 190 countries, defending children’s rights and ensuring access to education, health care, nutrition, shelter and protection from conflict. The organization amplifies the voices of children living in poverty and advocates for global action to combat child poverty.

UNICEF and Celebrity Support

To mark World Children’s Day 2024, UNICEF’s Celebrity Ambassadors led a fundraising campaign to support the organization’s work. President Olivia Colman and Ambassadors Robbie Williams, Andy Murray, Ramla Ali and Claudia Schiffer collaborated to design T-shirts sold to raise donations. All profits went directly to helping children in crisis, with a focus on Sudan, Gaza and Ukraine.

Reflecting on the campaign, Claudia Schiffer said, “I hope [the T-shirts] will raise vital funds for UNICEF’s work for children, protecting their rights, so they can experience things all children need […] some in the most difficult circumstances.” To further support the fight against child poverty, UNICEF hosted the “Once Upon Our Time” celebrity gala at Frameless in London to mark World Children’s Day. The evening featured celebrations, stories from children impacted by UNICEF’s work and a celebrity auction.

Samar’s story, an 11-year-old among 5 million children displaced by conflict in Sudan, was a key focus of the event. UNICEF highlighted its efforts to provide safe spaces and improve access to mental health support for children in the region. The live auction included exclusive experiences, such as a golfing session with James Nesbitt and a meet-and-greet with UNICEF President Olivia Colman. The gala raised £670,000 to support the organization’s World Children’s Day 2024 fundraising initiatives.

World Children’s Day Helps Children in Gaza

UNICEF used World Children’s Day to spotlight the urgent need for humanitarian aid to support children in Gaza. At least 14,000 children have been killed and nine in 10 residents are displaced. Children face extreme poverty, with little access to food, water, shelter and health care.

World Children’s Day raised awareness and funds to provide critical aid in Gaza. With 96% of the population experiencing extreme food insecurity, UNICEF has delivered nutrition services to families and screened more than 125,000 children for malnutrition. Additionally, the organization has also ensured safe water for more than 800,000 children and continues to distribute medical supplies, polio vaccinations, hygiene kits and basic sanitation support.

Other Charities Supporting World Children’s Day

Save the Children plays a vital role in fighting child poverty worldwide, working to ensure children have access to food, education, health care and social protection. The charity focuses heavily on supporting children during crises when they are most vulnerable. For World Children’s Day 2024, Save the Children joined calls for educational reform, the reopening of schools and improved access to health care.

World Vision actively supports World Children’s Day and the fight against child poverty. As a Christian charity, it focuses on aiding vulnerable children and providing immediate relief during crises. World Vision has worked with communities for up to 15 years, ensuring children are safe and healthy before concluding its efforts. On World Children’s Day, the charity highlights progress in improving children’s lives and advocates for investments in their futures. World Vision has helped more than 200 million children globally, with its feeding program achieving an 89% cure rate and its tuberculosis program reaching an 88% success rate.

Looking Forward

The annual World Children’s Day helps charities like UNICEF, Save the Children and World Vision help children most vulnerable in the fight against global poverty. Other charities assisting the cause include Feed the Children, Plan International and Mission Together. The day serves as recognition for their work and an opportunity to increase fundraising for future aid and assistance. 

– Ellie Western

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

Photo: Flickr

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Kerala: Leading Education Reform In India

Education Reform In IndiaKerala, situated in the linguistic-cultural region of South India, ranks as the ninth-largest economy in India, with an annual gross state product of ₹9.78 lakh crore between 2020 and 2021. The state’s economic growth is fueled by sectors such as tourism, health care and education. Furthermore, Kerala stands out as a leader in accessible and equitable education across India, with a model that emphasizes literacy, gender parity, technology, quality and inclusivity. This approach effectively addresses disparities and broadens educational opportunities for marginalized groups. The following list highlights six areas where Kerala has achieved significant academic progress.

6 Ways Kerala Leads India in Education Reform

  1. High Literacy Rates and Universal Primary Education. Kerala’s literacy rate reached 93.91% in the 2011 census. This notable increase is attributed to early reforms and primary education mandates established by local kingdoms before Indian independence. Historians report that social movements in the early 20th century helped lay the foundation for Kerala’s educational success. This created a culture that values literacy. Currently, the emphasis on literacy allows many people in the state to pursue better opportunities and break cycles of poverty.
  2. Gender Parity in Education. Kerala’s Gender Parity Index (GPI) is among the highest in India, standing at 1.44 for general enrolment and increasing to 1.80 and 1.41 for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, respectively, according to Education for All in India. Kerala’s policies supporting gender equity in education ensure that girls, including those from marginalized groups, have equitable access to schooling. Analysts suggest that this focus on gender balance empowers girls, enabling them to access higher education and professional opportunities.
  3. Technology Integration in Schools. Since its inception in 2001, the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology for Education (KITE) initiative has incorporated technology across all public schools in India. By 2018, KITE had equipped more than 4,500 schools with digital resources. Additionally, it has trained more than 80,000 teachers in AI and digital skills, according to The Hindu. This initiative ensures that students, especially those in underserved rural areas, gain access to essential digital skills. These skills prepare them for a competitive global economy.
  4. Recognition in Educational Quality. Kerala ranked highest in NITI Aayog’s School Education Quality Index for 2019, achieving a score of 76.6%. Education experts point to Kerala’s quality-focused policies as instrumental in improving educational standards across income groups. These policies ensure students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for academic and professional success.
  5. Inclusive Education Programmes. Kerala has prioritized inclusive education with programs like Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan and the State Initiative on Disabilities. These programs provide barrier-free learning environments and specialized training for educators working with children with disabilities. Indeed, educational researchers note that these inclusive efforts help bridge gaps for students who may face physical or cognitive challenges, offering them the support needed to succeed.
  6. Expanding Impact Beyond Kerala. Kerala’s influence in education reform extends beyond its borders, with organizations founded by Kerala natives taking steps to improve education in other parts of India. An example is Our India Foundation, established in 2014 by a group from Calicut, Kerala. The foundation operates Our India International School (OIIS), which began with just 28 students and has now expanded to serve 662 students from kindergarten through Grade IX. Based on the success of OIIS in Kerala, the foundation has extended its mission to underserved areas outside Kerala, bringing educational resources and opportunities to communities in need. This expansion reflects Kerala’s broader commitment to educational equity across India.

Moving Forward

Kerala’s education system demonstrates how targeted policies can potentially create a significant impact, building a foundation of literacy, inclusivity and opportunity for all students. Furthermore, by focusing on solutions like technology integration, gender parity and inclusive practices, Kerala sets an example for how education reforms can drive positive change across diverse communities in India. This commitment to equitable education continues to transform lives and offer new pathways to success for future generations.

– Fiza Meeraj

Fiza is based in London, UKm and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Sports Programs Fighting Child Poverty in Saint Lucia

Child Poverty in Saint LuciaAn island country in the Caribbean with about 180,000 people, Saint Lucia sees 25% of its population living in poverty. At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Julien Alfred captured the world’s attention by winning gold and silver in the 100 and 200-meter events, securing Saint Lucia’s first Olympic medals. Alfred stands out, but she’s not the only remarkable athlete from Saint Lucia. Programs like the Special Olympics, United Through Sports and the Saint Lucia Sports Academy are cultivating future athletes. With one-third of the island’s youth living in poverty—higher than the adult rate of 21%—these sports initiatives combat child poverty in Saint Lucia by providing uniforms and equipment, mentorship, community support, educational scholarships and teaching life skills such as teamwork and leadership.

Special Olympics St. Lucia

Since the late 1970s, Special Olympics St. Lucia has provided year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The program includes five official sports and development programs: Athlete Leadership, Young Athletes, Healthy Athletes and Project UNIFY. In 2023, Special Olympics St. Lucia had 181 registered athletes and participated in the 2023 Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany. Overall, the organization aims to promote physical fitness, courage and community engagement.

United Through Sports

United Through Sports has achieved a 100% increase in school attendance among the 2,000 children they worked with in Saint Lucia and supported 16 of those players in becoming nationally capped athletes, meaning those athletes represented their national team in an international competition. The organization has three sports programs in Saint Lucia. The Youth Rugby Crime Prevention Project uses rugby to channel aggression and teach discipline to youth in high-crime areas. The Young Leadership Project trains older children as leaders and coaches, encouraging them to mentor younger peers. The Female Empowerment Project aims to break stereotypes in sports by encouraging and empowering young girls to participate in traditionally male-dominated sports.

Saint Lucia Sports Academy

When the school opened in 2019, the Saint Lucia Sports Academy became the first and only boarding school in Saint Lucia that emphasized both athletic and educational discipline. The Academy provides students with all the school supplies, tutors and sports equipment necessary to succeed academically and athletically.

Looking Ahead

Sports programs in Saint Lucia are essential for transforming the lives of young athletes by providing support that addresses both their athletic and personal needs. These programs offer critical resources that many young athletes might not otherwise have access to, including training facilities, sports equipment and educational materials necessary for their academic and athletic success. Mentorship plays a pivotal role, guiding young athletes through the challenges of sports and life while fostering a sense of community that instills important values like discipline, resilience and teamwork. By equipping these athletes with the tools they need to overcome child poverty in Saint Lucia, sports programs empower them to achieve success both on the field and in their academic and personal lives.

– Nina Bujewski

Nina is based in San Luis Obispo, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Child Poverty in Antigua and Barbuda

Child Poverty in Antigua and BarbudaAntigua and Barbuda is a country in the Caribbean with an estimated population of 103,600 people. Antigua is mainly known for its beaches and as a popular tourist destination. Tourism is the main driver of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy after sugarcane production became insignificant. In 2016, 18% of the population lived in poverty and 5% were considered indigent. However, the poverty rate in Antigua and Barbuda is lower than the average of 23% for the Eastern Caribbean.

Child Poverty

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), child poverty in Antigua and Barbuda is largely affected by COVID-19, education and unemployment. In 2016, 24% of children ages 0-17 and 25% of adolescents ages 10-19 were living in poverty. UNICEF’s studies show that adolescents ages 10-19 in female-headed households were twice as likely to be poor compared to those in male-headed households. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, child poverty rates were projected to rise to 29%.

Education

Secondary school students in Antigua and Barbuda take the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) exams, which help them gain admission to colleges and universities. In 2018-2019, 27% of students passed five or more CSEC subjects, including English and mathematics. The average pass rate among Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) member countries is 28%. During the same period, the proportion of trained teachers was 48% at the primary level and 50% at the secondary level, significantly lower than the OECS averages of 72% and 60%, respectively.

Employment and Unemployment

According to UNICEF, youth ages 15 to 19 in Antigua and Barbuda were more likely to be unemployed, as there was little evidence of child labor. Instead, these youths focused on education and exploring future opportunities rather than entering the workforce. In 2016, 36% of youth in Antigua and Barbuda were employed, while 26% were unemployed. In comparison, 87% of adults were employed and 6% were unemployed. Young adults ages 20 to 24 (82%) were four times more likely to be employed than those ages 15 to 19. Additionally, 18% of youth ages 15 to 24 are classified as Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET), with young NEETs being twice as likely to be ages 20-24 and more likely to be female.

Strengthening Education

UNICEF is focused on strengthening the education system in Antigua and Barbuda. This includes improving teaching quality, enhancing learning materials and integrating more communication technology. Post-COVID-19, UNICEF also aims to address multidimensional child poverty by working toward its eradication. It also wants to boost employability, which often relies on the tourism sector, to support continued economic growth. Additionally, in 2013, the World Bank Board of Directors approved a $10 million loan to Antigua and Barbuda to improve services for the population. Initiatives were aimed at boosting income and employability through temporary employment and training programs.

In Antigua and Barbuda’s 2021 Voluntary National Review (VNR), the government outlined several development goals under the theme “Leaving No One Behind.” These goals included no poverty, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality and decent work and economic growth. For each goal, the VNR provided examples of the country’s commitment to achieving them. To address poverty among women and children, the government introduced the Social Protection Act of 2020 and a social security scheme aimed at reducing the 24% child poverty rate in Antigua and Barbuda.

Government Actions

In an effort to improve the quality of education, the government ensures universal access to primary and secondary education. It launched the One-Stop Education Center (OSEC) and the Financial Inclusion and Empowerment Center. These initiatives aim to reduce youth unemployment and lower the teenage pregnancy rate (27.7 per 1,000 among ages 15-19). The Social Protection Act of 2020 and the Antigua and Barbuda Labor Code promoted gender equality and improved employability for women and girls. To reduce unemployment rates (8.7% overall), the Financial Inclusion and Empowerment Centre provided opportunities for unemployed women and young women. The government also introduced new training programs to boost youth employment. In “Leaving No One Behind,” the government aims to monitor progress until 2030. This initiative seeks to promote social protection, end extreme poverty, reduce inequalities and address discriminatory behaviors in communities.

– Indira Smith

Indira is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Sex Trafficking and Child Poverty in Belarus  

Sex Trafficking in BelarusBelarus is a country in Eastern Europe which only recently gained its independence in August 1991 after a long history of the Soviet Union. The country, occupied by the Russian Empire since the 18th century, fell into Nazi hands years after the Russian Revolution, and following World War II, the country returned to Soviet Union’s control in 1944. In 1994, three years after declaring independence, Aleksandr Lukashenko became president and has been in office since his initial election.

Vulnerable Communities

In 2017, the rate of child poverty in Belarus stood at 11.3% while the population as a whole stood at 5.9%. The most vulnerable communities and families have been and still are those that live in more rural areas of the country, single-parent homes and homes with three or more children.

The multidimensional child poverty (MDCP) is higher than the overall poverty rate in the country. It is 16.7%, but the number varies across individuals. For larger households with three or more children and families in rural areas, the rate stands at 29.5% and for single-parent households, the rate is 23.8%, UNICEF reports.

UNICEF defines MDCP as “the situation of children suffering from multiple deprivations, rather than just income deprivation. Children may lack necessities or basic rights such as access to water and sanitation, a healthy, diverse diet, adequate living space or access to a personal computer to aid learning.”

Child Sex Trafficking in Belarus

Due to child poverty in Belarus, these underprivileged groups are especially vulnerable to trafficking, one of the major issues in the country. According to Interpol, Belarus has been identified as the country in Eastern Europe with the single most individuals identified in child abuse material. In 2013, there were a total of 91 victims in explicit abuse photographs and videos from Belarus.

The number of cases only increased. In 2015, there were a total of 506 separate cases of “commercial exploitation of children,” according to ECPAT. The traffickers often take victims abroad to countries like Russia, Poland and Turkey where their exploitation continues. The number of victims each year has fluctuated, but has remained consistently high, with the government identifying 251 victims in 2019.

The Good News

Although sex trafficking and child poverty in Belarus remain prominent, there is international support from NGOs and international aid groups to provide resources to victims and low-income households, according to the U.S. Department of State.

The number of victims of child trafficking has slowly increased since 2020; although, the government of Belarus has made small steps in providing resources for these vulnerable individuals. The government provides housing for up to six months in centers for children between the ages of three to 18 as well as free legal assistance, the U.S. Department of State reports. In July 2019, Belarusian and Israeli officials worked together to coordinate an operation to take down a sex trafficking ring composed of Belarusian and Ukrainian women, leading to the arrest of 15 people.

To address child poverty, the country has begun to provide aid to low-income families and families with underage children. There are also one-time benefits provided to families experiencing hardships and children up until 2 years old are provided with food supplies, regardless of income. Belarus is making efforts to address the issues of child poverty and human trafficking. No matter how slow, there are still efforts being made.

– Maya Renfro

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

Photo: Flickr

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The Enough Project: Easing Poverty in DRC

The Enough ProjectFor more than 30 years the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have endured the perpetual reverberations resulting from ongoing economic and political conflict. The obstructive effects of conflict on the Congolese people continue to attract the attention of multiple organizations, including the Enough Project. Armies and rebels continue to use violence to control natural resources and have repressed independent voices to maintain financial and physical power. Indeed, 75% of the people live in poverty, compounded by “the second largest internally displaced people’s crisis in Africa.” is having devastating effects.

Natural Resources Creating Conflict

The DRC is rich in natural resources. Yet its wealth has not benefited local communities. Children as young as 11 work in mines or work as child soldiers without pay. Congolese families face cycles of violence and challenges that have led to insecurity and poverty.

The trade of the “conflict minerals” (3TG) cobalt, coltan and tantalum, continues to fuel the armed civil conflict in the DRC. Coltan, (67% of the world’s supply) is the source of tantalum. Cobalt (70% of the world’s supply) is essential to manufacture smartphones.  Combined, tantalum and cobalt are used to power batteries.

In addition, the DRC has one of the largest reserves of potential wealth, including 200 million acres of cultivable land. Combined, the DRC’s natural resources total more than $24 trillion worth of minerals.

The World Food Program (WFP) identifies key drivers or motivators of food insecurity and their complex relationship with conflict and economic shocks.

Conflict minerals are a natural resource that has motivated conflict and desperation in the DRC. While the WFP provides emergency food assistance to conflict-affected areas of Eastern DRC, the Enough Project advocates from a different position.

The Enough Project

Founded in 2007, the Enough Project, a non-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. has advocated civilian protection strategies and supported peace in Eastern Congo. In 2008, the Enough Project broadened its strategies. To upgrade the Enough Project’s effectiveness, it formed the Raise Hope for Congo campaign. The campaign aims to educate activists to help alleviate conflicts in Eastern Congo.

In 2016, the Enough Project adopted another campaign, Sentry, to address the increase of civil conflicts and an unyielding situation of food insecurity.  Sentry’s mission is to “produce hard-hitting investigative reports and dossiers on individuals and entities connected to grand corruption and violence.”

Addressing the DRC’s situation of malnutrition, illness, and poverty is a primary concern. Confronting the DRC’s volatile civil conflicts, the pressing situation of poverty and food insecurity can benefit the people of the DRC.  “The conflict, which has persisted in the east of the DRC for almost 30 years, and is the deadliest since the Second World War, is mainly economic,” explains Nobel Laureate Denis Mukwege. The conflict displaced more than 10 million people, with plenty of them being forcibly recruited into armed groups or killed.

Looking to the Future of the DRC

The children of the DRC are its future.  Nearly half of the population of the DRC is under the age of 15. Working in mines or serving as soldiers instead of attending school is not a well-grounded path for any child. Of the 30,000 fighters involved in the ongoing conflicts, one-third are children. The Congolese children are the most vulnerable population. They are witnesses and forced participants.

The threat of conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is immediate. The sale of conflict minerals can be faulted for the existing high levels of food insecurity. The primary concern of the Enough Project has been to liberate government officials and families of the DRC. These actions have enabled them to address the immediate concerns of “malnutrition, illness and poor education that are making the DRC one of the hardest places on earth to raise a family.”

– Pamela Fenton

Pamela is based in Wall Township, NJ, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

Poverty Reduction in Northern Ireland 

Poverty Reduction in Northern Ireland Poverty in Northern Ireland exists as a unique case in the Global West. However, there are organizations in place working to amplify poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

The unusual situation in Northern Ireland comes as a result of the lingering effects of The Troubles. The Troubles refers to a period of political unrest and violence in Northern Ireland in the late 20th century. This came about as a result of political and religious discrimination by the state against the Irish Catholic population.

This has had a knock-on effect for generations. According to 2022/23 Poverty and Income Inequality Report, 14% of the population in Northern Ireland lived in absolute poverty. This manifests itself through rising unemployment rates and rising child poverty rates. Many people are struggling to pay their bills and feed their families.

According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, almost a third of children in Northern Ireland are impoverished. It also highlights elevated levels of wealth inequality. However, there are steps being taken to promote poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

The Aftermath of The Troubles

According to a 2002/2003 survey, nearly half of all adults living in Northern Ireland had suffered through the death or injury of a person they know. A decade later the foundation did another survey which showed that this had not subsided. Their 2012 survey showed that 35% of the adult population experienced the death of someone they know.

This has led to crises in regard to mental health and generational PTSD. It has also reinforced community divisions. The legacy of the Troubles has left a lot of communities in a cycle of poverty which they are struggling to emerge from. 

It has also led to high rates of long-term employment. There are great strides being made to reverse these trends. The Lifetime Opportunities scheme is a good example of this.

People and Place

In 2003, the Department for Social Development (DSD) introduced a program known as “People and Place – A strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal.” This project set out four primary objectives: Community Renewal, Economic Renewal, Social Renewal and Physical Renewal.

The DSD identified urban areas with the most need for renewal using the “New Noble Multiple Deprivation Measure.” These areas were primarily in Belfast and Derry. 

Neighbourhood Renewal

Neighbourhood Renewal in Northern Ireland is built upon the principle of community planning. This helps with the rolling out of new strategies and the facilitation of local planning and cooperation.

One of the most important aspects of Neighbourhood Renewals has been the establishment of Neighbourhood Partnerships. These partnerships play a key role in relation to poverty reduction in Northern Ireland.

  • Some of the roles undertaken by these partnerships include:
  • Promoting community-based cooperation to drive renewal.
  • Working together within communities to draft Vision Statements and medium-term plans of action.
  • Ensuring that these plans come to fruition.
  • Finding out where support is needed most and distributing resources accordingly.

This scheme has done a great deal to aid people in working class areas. It has helped provide these areas with increased funding in facilities. For example, the Twinbrook area of West Belfast received a new family center worth £2.1 million through this scheme. This one example of the many ways in which the scheme has aided poverty reduction in Northern Ireland in recent years.

Lifetime Opportunities

In 2006, the executive launched a policy of poverty reduction in Northern Ireland. They also set out the goal of promoting social inclusion. 

Lifetime Opportunities is a framework by which to investigate the causes of poverty and tackle it at its roots. Their studies have shown that conditions are improving. In relation to the U.K. as a whole where 18% live in “absolute poverty,” that figure is 14% for Northern Ireland.

Their 2022/23 studies have highlighted where work needs to be done to combat poverty. Compared to the U.K. as a whole where the median household income fell by 1%, it fell by 5% in Northern Ireland.

– Cian Mortimer

Cian is based in Newcastle upon Tyne, UK and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Child Poverty in the Marshall Islands

Child poverty in the Marshall IslandsThe Marshall Islands are roughly between Hawaii and Australia in the Pacific Ocean. Child poverty in the Marshall Islands has been an issue that usually is ignored by the global community. Most children living in these islands face significant challenges in achieving adequate development due to limited access to health care. Poor education, maternal health challenges and malnutrition (35%) are some of the most common factors when talking about child poverty in the region.

Maternal Health Challenges

Maternal health care challenges and child poverty are closely related in the Marshall Islands. Limited access to efficient maternal health services harms health outcomes for both mothers and children. Children who are born from mothers who do not receive proper prenatal and postnatal care are at a higher risk of experiencing health issues, stunting and developmental delays. As a consequence, they are not able to do regular activities as any other children.

The lack of education on proper contraception contributes to a higher likelihood of unintended pregnancies, resulting in various health and economic challenges. A study conducted by the University of Arkansas on women in the Marshallese community living in Arkansas found that many mothers fear the adverse effects of contraception, leading them to reject contraceptive methods.

Education

Poverty significantly restricts children’s access to education in the Marshall Islands, particularly in rural areas where schools are often far from their homes. Limited learning materials, inadequate school infrastructure and a shortage of qualified teachers contribute to the low quality of education. As a result, many children discontinue their schooling to work and support their families, perpetuating the cycle of poverty.

Malnutrition

Malnutrition is another significant consequence of poverty affecting children in the Marshall Islands. According to a 2017 joint study by the Marshall Islands government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), highlighted by the World Bank Group in 2020, 35% of Marshallese children younger than 5 suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition. This statistic is particularly alarming, even compared to other Pacific Island nations facing challenges related to poor nutrition and the high costs of imported goods.

What Is Being Done?

The government of the Marshall Islands, in collaboration with UNICEF, is implementing programs to improve health care and combat malnutrition. Efforts are focused on enhancing access to education and health care services. Mobile clinics and educational initiatives are being introduced to ensure that most children on the islands can benefit from these programs.

Additionally, the Early Childhood Development Project, launched by the World Bank in April 2019, directly addresses these issues. This $13 million initiative is funded by the International Development Association (IDA) in collaboration with the Republic of the Marshall Islands Government and UNICEF. The programs aim to improve health and nutrition, enhance early education and support families in creating a nurturing environment for their children. Additionally, evaluations and monitoring will be implemented to ensure the success and impact of the projects.

Conclusion

Addressing child poverty in the Marshall Islands requires a multifaceted approach involving local and international collaboration. Significant strides are being made to improve the living conditions and the future of children in the region. Indeed, initiatives like the Early Childhood Development Project and various programs improving nutrition, health care and education are making significant steps forward. Continued support and innovative solutions will be essential in ensuring that every child in the Marshall Islands has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

– Maria Urioste

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

Photo: Flickr

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5 Charities Operating in Brazil

Charities Operating in BrazilBrazil, the largest nation in South America, boasts a population of more than 200 million and a GDP of more than $2 trillion. However, despite such a promising economy, it remains an extremely unequal nation in terms of income, with Oxfam citing that the richest 5% of the country have as much income as the remaining 95%. Factors such as lack of access to housing or education have only served to widen the gap between rich and poor. Poverty disproportionately affects women, Afro-Brazilians and Indigenous communities due to wage inequality. Here are five charities operating in Brazil that work to combat the various social problems facing the country.

The Lemann Foundation

Limited access to education is a problem that affects a significant proportion of Brazil’s population; 48% of the nation’s children reach age 10 without ability to read, whilst total illiteracy rates reach as high as 80% in the most deprived areas. The Lemann Foundation combats “learning poverty” by working to ensure children and young people in Brazil have access to high-quality education. It collaborates with more than 15,000 schools, provides teachers and local governments with relevant resources and helps produce online learning material to ensure those in deprived areas are still able to achieve strong academic qualifications. The Lemann Foundation also notes the particular educational exclusion of Indigenous and Afro-Brazilian communities and stresses the importance of quality education in building a progressive and equal society.

The Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD)

Founded in 1960 as the official aid department of the English and Welsh Catholic Church, CAFOD’s work in Brazil focuses on providing aid to those dealing with homelessness in São Paulo, the country’s most populous city. With an estimated homeless population of up to 50,000 in 2023, the number of residents sleeping rough has increased by 31% since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CAFOD combats this by supporting those living in unsanitary housing conditions by ensuring they have access to clean water and basic health care. It also recognises the disproportionate impact poverty has on Indigenous groups in Brazil, so works to ensure these groups have access to education and employment opportunities.

The Favela Foundation

Favelas are slums or impoverished areas often located on the outskirts of Brazil’s larger cities. The Favela Foundation is one of the charities operating in Brazil that focuses its support on the residents of these neighborhoods. The organization raises money for local NGOs that provide educational opportunities such as English lessons, as speaking English can often ensure access to better employment.

Revive International

Founded in 2012, Revive is one of the charities operating in Brazil that works in the North East of the country, focusing on supporting children who have been victims of abuse or trafficking. As poverty and homelessness put young people more at risk of exploitation, Reviva runs safe houses for those in unsafe domestic conditions, alongside a fostering service for younger children to ensure they receive a safe upbringing.

ActionAid

This U.K.-based charity has been working in Brazil for more than 25 years and supports a wide range of communities and initiatives across the country. The organization’s principal goal is the support and protect young girls from exploitation, for example through organizing educational services or sports activities. However, ActionAid also assists those facing other issues, such as providing resources to rural Brazilians in drought-stricken areas to ensure they can still grow food. In total, it has worked with over 300,000 people to help improve lives in the country.

Although the country faces disproportionately high levels of poverty and inequality, these charities operating in Brazil are working to improve the lives of its impoverished citizens. Both local and wide-ranging international organizations provide support within the country to support those dealing with a vast variety of issues such as homelessness, learning poverty, gender-based violence and environmental changes.

– Izzy Tompkins

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

Photo: Flickr