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Nagorno-Karabakh: Post-War Recovery of Refugees

Nagorno-KarabakhNagorno-Karabakh is a small territory in the South Caucasus, between the regions of Armenia and Azerbaijan. These two states have contested this piece of land since the first war in the 1990s, with 30,000 casualties and significant displacements after Armenia took control of the territory. The conflict escalated in 2020 when Azerbaijan reclaimed a large part of Nagorno-Karabakh territory, along with the support of its ally, Turkey.

Russia moderated the ceasefire due to the shared ties with both nations; however, tension prevailed. In 2022, a blockade by Azerbaijani activists at the Lachin corridor prevented the free movement of food and essential goods. Both parties accused each other of posing threats, which was not confirmed. What remains clear is the consequent humanitarian crisis leading to an urgent post-war recovery of Nagorno-Karabakh refugees.

Blockade of Lachin Corridor

The Azerbaijani military operation led to the displacement of thousands of ethnic Armenians from their homes. The blockade in the Lachin corridor left the population facing a severe shortage of resources essential to survival, such as medical and food supplies. The Azerbaijani government has been criticized internationally due to its failure to ensure a safe passage for the population and human rights violations.

The International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) and Russian peacekeepers tried sending aid, which the Azerbaijani administration had blocked, alleging unauthorized objects among them.

Displacement and Daily Struggles

Thirteen-year-old Natalie Musayelian fled Nagorno-Karabakh with her family. On her way, she collected berries, stones and a branch, keeping all the items in a small box of chocolates and the key to her house. Currently, she lives in Armenia with her aunt and grandmother. She misses her home every day and cherishes these objects as memories and comfort after the loss. Her story is just one of many people who were displaced from their homes due to the conflict.

Many refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh have fled to the capital of Armenia, Yerevan and the region of Syunik. Armenia has already opened shelters and provided social aid for the displaced population. The U.N. launched a $97 million funding appeal to ease the burden on the volunteers and the Armenian host community. However, it anticipates further movement of people as they search for employment and long-term housing.

The Role of the US Foreign Aid

In 2023, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Samantha Power visited Armenia after a disproportionate number of displacements. She announced $11.5 million in U.S. humanitarian aid, providing essential supplies and psychosocial services. The collection of refugee testimonies enabled the criticism of the blockade. Furthermore, they reaffirmed the high level of concern for a post-war recovery of Nagorno-Karabakh refugees.

Furthermore, the U.N. World Food Program (WFP) hosted a two-day visit from USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) to assess support for refugee families. The delegation collaborated with local officials, social workers and even families, such as a grandmother in Kotayk struggling with her grandchildren’s care. USAID’s BHA provided a $1.13 million grant for emergency food assistance, which helped 30,000 refugees. Additionally, from February to September 2024, food cards and parcels were distributed to alleviate short-term needs, ensuring the families’ well-being.

– Sara Arias Saiz

Sara is based in Leipzig, Germany and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Poverty and Terrorism: How Economic Inequality Fuels Extremism

How Poverty Fuels TerrorismThe link between poverty and terrorism is complex, involving economic, political and social factors that drive individuals toward extremism. Economic hardship can create environments where extremist groups thrive, as they often exploit the vulnerability of impoverished communities to gain followers. When individuals lack access to stable employment, education and necessities, the appeal of joining extremist movements increases as these groups often promise income, food and social belonging. Understanding the connection between poverty and terrorism is crucial for crafting effective counterterrorism strategies that address root causes rather than just symptoms.

Economic Hardship as a Driver of Extremism

Studies indicate that poverty-stricken regions are more susceptible to terrorism due to the economic vulnerability of their populations. With limited job opportunities and scarce resources, extremist groups can lure impoverished individuals with promises of financial support and security. For instance, research from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) found that economic factors played a significant role in driving individuals to join extremist groups. Poverty and unemployment create a fertile environment for radicalization as individuals seek stability and hope in regions where governmental support is lacking.

Social Marginalization and Lack of Education

Poverty often coincides with a lack of educational opportunities, which further exacerbates vulnerability to extremist ideologies. Without access to education, individuals are more susceptible to radical propaganda, as they may lack the critical thinking skills to resist extremist narratives. Alongside this, poor education systems can create a failure to address poverty and unemployment. Addressing educational inequality can be a significant tool in reducing susceptibility and root causes of extremist recruitment.

Political Instability and Weak Institutions

Economic hardship is often intertwined with political instability, as poverty-stricken regions frequently lack robust institutions capable of maintaining law and order. In regions with weak governance, extremist groups can step in to provide services such as food distribution, security and basic health care, essentially becoming a de facto government. This creates a power vacuum that extremist groups exploit, using economic incentives to gain loyalty and recruit members. For instance, areas like the Sahel region in Africa have seen an increase in terrorism partly due to the inability of local governments to provide essential services.

Displacement and Refugee Crises

Poverty exacerbates displacement, which in turn fuels terrorism by creating large populations of vulnerable, dislocated individuals who may turn to extremism out of desperation. The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) reports that displaced populations face extreme economic hardship, often living in dire conditions with limited access to food, shelter and safety. Extremist groups, recognizing this desperation, target refugee camps and displaced communities to recruit new members with promises of stability and sustenance. Compared to only a decade ago, the number of refugees worldwide has more than tripled. Making it more important than ever to address the basic needs of displaced populations to reduce the risk of extremist recruitment.

Economic Development as a Tool Against Terrorism

Countering terrorism requires a multidimensional approach that includes addressing poverty through economic development programs. By investing in job creation, education and infrastructure, governments and international organizations can reduce the appeal of extremist groups. The United Nations advocates for initiatives that focus on youth employment and educational programs that offer alternatives to terrorism. In Africa and the Middle East, for example, initiatives that promote vocational training have helped safeguard youth against extremist ideologies by providing economic opportunities outside of radical groups.

Conclusion

The relationship between poverty and terrorism highlights the need for holistic counterterrorism strategies that address socioeconomic factors. Tackling poverty, improving educational access, strengthening governance and supporting displaced populations are all crucial steps in reducing the appeal of extremist ideologies. Furthermore, by addressing these underlying issues, the global community can work toward a future where economic stability undermines terrorism’s grip on vulnerable populations.

– Harriet Conway

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

Photo: Flickr

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Migration to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Migration to Bosnia and HerzegovinaThe Balkan country of Bosnia and Herzegovina experienced the displacement of more than 2.2 million of its citizens during the 1992-1995 Bosnian war. However, now Bosnia and Herzegovina is at the forefront of a new migration crisis due to increased rates of global poverty and conflict. Since 2018, more than 110,000 migrants have entered the Balkan country. The numbers first increased in 2018 after 24,067 migrants and refugees arrived in the country compared to 755 in 2017. Despite migration challenging the infrastructure of Bosnia and Herzegovina, obstacles are often overcome thanks to the cooperation of various international institutions and charities

Western Balkan Migration Route

Bosnia and Herzegovina falls within the Western Balkan route, popular among migrants who look to enter EU countries. From January to September 2023, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) recorded 128,871 migrant, refugee and asylum seeker arrivals through the corridor. The large number and potential for an unexpected increase of migrants strain Bosnia and Herzegovina’s resources.

However, the IOM, UNHCR and EU provide financial support for the country to ease the pressure of this corridor on countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina and to protect migrants. The “Individual Measure to Strengthen the Response Capacity to Manage Migration Flows in Bosnia and Herzegovina” project aims to transfer the migration response to Bosnian authorities.

This project continues to receive considerable funding. In August 2024, The IOM confirmed 100% of the financing for protection management for the arrival of migrants into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Accommodation for Migrants

The increased number of migrants in 2018 strained infrastructure in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Collaboration between the country’s Ministry of Security (MoS) and the IOM facilitated the creation of seven temporary reception centers (TRCs) to house more than 8,000 migrants.

In 2018, the IOM revealed that the national infrastructure was not adequate to house the sudden influx of migrants in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The closure of TRC Lipa and Bira in 2020 reduced overall accommodation capacity from 8,282 to 3,540 beds.

Despite the challenges of accommodating migrants, international cooperation has helped resolve these problems. In 2021, a newly built TRC Lipa increased its accommodation capacity to 1,500 migrants compared to its prior 1,400 migrant capacity. Johann Sattler, Head of the EU Delegation, commented on the opening of TRC Lipa: “This is a good reminder for all of us that those crises can be solved, and the only way to resolve crises is through dialogue and a willingness to compromise.”

War and Poverty

In July 2024, the UNHCR reported that the top three countries of origin of migrants in Bosnia and Herzegovina were the Syrian Arab Republic (35%), Afghanistan (29%) and Morocco (8%). The high number of Syrians and Afghans in Bosnia and Herzegovina correlates to the high levels of poverty in these countries due to war. In 2022, poverty affected 69% of Syrians and 90% of Afghans.

Mental Health

Migrants often face traumatic journeys that have psychological impacts. Adil, a Moroccan migrant who resides in TRC Lipa expressed how migration impacted his mental wellbeing to the IOM: “This journey is hard and dangerous. I have seen and experienced things that I do not want to remember.”

There are ongoing efforts by the IOM and Bosnian authorities to provide mental health support for migrants. The IOM continues to provide mental health screening for migrants inside and outside TRCs and aims to increase mental health support access for migrants in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Between April 2024 and July 2024, the UNHCR assisted 585 migrants with psychosocial support.

Cultural Programs for Migrants

Alongside the efforts of international organizations and the Bosnian government to integrate migrants into the workplace and provide psychological aid for migrants, cultural programs also help improve their well-being.

In 2024, IOM ran creative programs in multiple TRCs. TRC Blažuj held a canvas painting workshop which allowed migrants to express their creativity. TRC Lipa has a creative zone where handcrafting workshops were held for migrants and refugees from Afghanistan, Gambia, Iran and Syria.

Cultural programs extend beyond reception centers in Bosnia and Herzegovina into mainstream society. Migrants from reception centers contributed to a fashion collection for The No Nation Fashion brand showcased at the 30th Sarajevo Film Festival.

Cooperation for Solutions

The impact of global poverty meant the influx of migrants to Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2018 onwards presented challenges to the country’s infrastructure and the safety of migrants. However, cooperation between the former Yugoslav country, international governments and organizations shows the capacity to overcome the potential challenges of migration to improve the quality of life of migrants.

– Sofia Brooke

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

Photo: Flickr

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What You Need to Know about Child Marriage in Iraqi Kurdistan

Child Marriage in Iraqi KurdistanChild marriage remains a significant issue in the Iraqi Kurdistan region. It occurs in regions where poverty is prevalent, such as India, Africa and the Middle East. Campaigns and legislative frameworks have been implemented to combat the issue.

Prevalence

Data from Iraq’s Central Bureau of Statistics showed that 5% of Iraqi girls were married before the age of 15, while approximately 22% of Iraqi girls married before they turned 18. Child marriage contracts in the Kurdistan region are often concluded informally outside the courts. The marriages are not formally registered, leading to the underreporting of actual rates. There are international legal instruments and local laws that set a minimum age for marriage and require registration. However, enforcement of these laws is often weak. This allows informal marriages to occur without legal repercussions.

Key Drivers of Child Marriage

Several factors contribute to child marriage in Iraqi Kurdistan.

  1. Conflict and Displacement: Conflict and displacement exacerbate vulnerabilities, leading families to marry off daughters to reduce economic burdens.
  2. Cultural and Social Norms: Traditional beliefs and social pressures can impact this. Some communities may view early marriage as ensuring their daughter’s future and protecting her family’s honor.
  3. Gender inequalities: Deep-rooted gender inequality and gender biases subordinate the status of women and girls in societies that perpetuate the practices.

Risks of Child Marriage

Young girls who marry as children face numerous risks. They are vulnerable to health issues as a consequence of rape, early pregnancy and premature childbirth. Psychologically, they may suffer from social isolation enforced by their families and domestic violence. Despite legal measures, violence and rape remain prevalent in child marriages due to inadequate official responses.

In Iraq, although rape is criminalized, charges can be dropped if the victim marries the perpetrator. Moreover, since spousal rape is not criminalized, domestic violence is seldom reported, with families often resolving issues privately.

Legal Contexts

“The Personal Status Law and Amendments 1987 sets the legal age for marriage at 18”. However, judges can permit girls as young as 15 to marry under certain circumstances, for example, parental consent if the marriage is deemed as being in the best interests of the girl. This contributes to the prevalence of child marriage in the region. Proposed bill changes to Iraq’s Personal Status Law recently alarmed women and children’s rights campaigners.

The proposed amendments would allow Muslim citizens to choose between secular and religious laws for family matters, potentially legalizing child marriage for girls as young as 9. Furthermore, these amendments would undermine existing protections for women regarding divorce and inheritance. These changes could institutionalize sectarianism in family law and empower religious authorities, raising significant concerns among women and children’s rights advocates. On July 28, 2024, a group of activists, including campaigners from the Organization of Women’s Freedom in Iraq (OWFI), gathered in Baghdad’s Tahrir Square in opposition to the bill.

Actions Taken

In 2016, an Inter-Ministerial committee in Kurdistan adopted a plan to change societal attitudes toward child marriage. The plan included launching a campaign called “Ensuring My Future.” The campaign emphasized the direct link between empowering young boys and girls and reducing child marriage rates. It also challenged the misconception that child marriage secures a girl’s future. The plan targets young girls, adolescent girls and parents by showcasing success stories of women in various professional fields to inspire girls to pursue education and careers. Additionally, religious and health arguments are used to persuade families to abandon the practice of marrying their daughters at a young age.

A Child Marriage Task Force was established in Kurdistan in 2016. The task force has representation from child protection and gender-based violence working groups to coordinate responses and provide guidance. It focuses on prevention strategies, policy recommendations, awareness raising, and improving data collection to address the issue in the region effectively.

There is also an increased collaboration between international organizations, local nongovernmental organizations and government bodies to address child marriage. Initiatives like the Global Programme to End Child Marriage, implemented by the United Nations Population Fund and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), are working to create sustainable change by addressing the root causes of child marriage and supporting affected girls.

These include a comprehensive approach that empowers girls with education and life skills. Furthermore, it engages communities to challenge harmful norms, strengthens support systems and services, advocates for protective policies, and emphasizes data collection. UNICEF has reported that the collaborative efforts of various organizations fighting against child marriage, including Girls Not Brides, have successfully averted 25 million arranged child marriages.

Final Remark

Progress has been made to eradicate child marriage in Iraqi Kurdistan. However, continued efforts are needed to empower girls and shift societal norms to ensure a future where every child can enjoy their right to a safe and fulfilling childhood.

– Hannah Ravariere

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

Photo: Flickr

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Go Project Hope: Advancing Health and Education in Palestine

Go Project HopeSince October 7, 2023, the crisis in Palestine has escalated exponentially, bringing serious concerns to the livelihood of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza. With up to 175,000 buildings being severely damaged or destroyed in the Gaza Strip, accessible health care and education for Palestinians has become nonexistent.

Effective and innovative strategies for improving the region’s health care and educational systems are paramount in the face of the conflict. Go Project Hope, a nongovernmental organization (NGO), understands that and works toward advancing health and education in Palestine through innovation and creativity.

Health and Education in Palestine

The decades-long occupation and blockade in Palestinian territories has left the health system in Gaza and the West Bank severely under-resourced. The growing conflict and violence between Israel and Palestine has worsened an already bleak situation. Additionally, the Israeli bombardment on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, has damaged, destroyed or raided 32 out of a total of 36 hospitals, leaving the Palestinian health care system in collapse.

While Palestine has prioritized education and literacy for many years, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the West Bank has severely impeded the value system. The displacement of nearly two million in the Gaza Strip has made access to education in the region impossible. According to 2024 reports from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), more than 625,000 students and 22,564 teachers cannot access or contribute to the education system in Palestine.

On top of that, with the destruction of more than half of the buildings in Gaza, many educational buildings no longer exist or have been converted into refugee shelters. In consequence, the ongoing occupation and Israeli settlements in the West Bank have placed severe pressure and restrictions on already displaced Palestinians in accessing proper health care and education.

Go Project Hope’s Mission

Go Project Hope aims to improve and advance health and education in refugee camps worldwide. Through innovation and creativity, the organization has created mindful and unique initiatives for refugee camps in developing countries, focusing on improving health and education conditions. For the 1.7 million displaced Palestinians, Go Project Hope has created and funded initiatives considering the complexities of life in refugee camps, thus expanding their overall impact.

Innovations in health and education define progress in the face of crisis. With this prerogative, Go Project Hope has created and funded several programs prioritizing health and education in Palestine and for refugees worldwide. 

Camp Care Comic

The Camp Care Comic series was created as an educational resource that addressed many mental and physical health concerns facing Palestinian refugees. The protagonist, Superhero Azhar, solves the problems facing Palestinians and refugees globally through fun and engaging pictures and story-telling. The comic series educates Palestinians on health concerns across the refugee camps, such as lice, scabies and stress, in an engaging and informative manner. The duality of the comic series is demonstrated as it is not only a creation to better education and literacy in refugee camps but to better the mental and physical health of refugees.

Jalazone Refugee Camp Music and Movement Program

Go Project Hope designed and created a movement and mindfulness program at the Jalazone refugee camp in the West Bank, specifically prioritizing the mental and physical health of special needs children and their siblings who would often take care of them.

According to a 2018 study on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees, children and adolescents, psychiatrist J.M. Fergert explains that refugees fleeing from areas of severe danger and violence are significantly more likely to experience PTSD and similar mental disorders. Go Project Hope’s movement and mindfulness initiatives in the West Bank teach students healthy techniques to relax and bring them peace in the face of violence and conflict.

Final Note

With its innovative initiatives like the Camp Care Comic series organizations such as Go Project Hope offer hope in the face of crises that frequently characterize the developing world. The programs developed and funded by the NGO have provided essential support to refugee camps across Palestine, Iraq and Greece. These efforts continue to enhance the lives of thousands of refugees and instill hope worldwide.

– Juliana Granville

Juliana is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Bringing Hope to the Crisis in Sudan

Crisis in SudanSudan is facing a variety of crises, including a deadly power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and Rapid Support Forces that has killed up to 150,000 people and continues to escalate. The country also contends with disease outbreaks and natural disasters such as extreme heat and flooding. The most significant crisis arises from political instability, fueled by conflicts and economic pressures. This instability has displaced 12 million people from their homes, with 10 million remaining within Sudan, marking the largest displacement crisis globally. Amid this mass displacement, severely restricted humanitarian access complicates efforts to deliver aid to vulnerable communities.

Humanitarian Efforts

Organizations like the International Rescue Committee (IRC) have expanded their operations to meet humanitarian needs in Sudan. It has established offices and initiated emergency response measures that provide cash assistance, clean water, sanitation and hygiene to communities lacking access to these essential resources.

Additionally, Save the Children has established the Sudan Emergency Relief Fund to aid child refugees from Sudan, which supplies medical equipment and services. This initiative uses emergency trauma kits for life-threatening situations and offers health clinics and nutrition supplements for displaced or malnourished children. Additionally, it provides children with opportunities to participate in sports and other activities, helping them to overcome adverse experiences.

U.S. Foreign Aid to Sudan

In March 2024, the United States (U.S.) delivered more than $47 million in foreign aid to Sudan and its host countries. Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees and Migration Julieta Vall Noyes represented the U.S. in this effort, which provided essential life-saving assistance and protection to the Sudanese people. This contribution increased the total U.S. aid for Sudanese relief to more than $968 million. Additionally, the U.S. government maintains a comprehensive archive of Sudanese conflicts and crises, detailing emergency responses, funding and relief efforts along with location maps. These detailed reports are instrumental in mitigating the effects of future crises that could lead to mass displacement or significant casualties.

Global Advocacy and Warnings of Famine

On June 18, 2024, Edem Wosornu, Director of Operations and Advocacy, addressed the international community during a press conference, sounding the alarm about the impending famine and the ongoing horrific conflict in Sudan. “Famine is imminent,” she declared. “I regret to inform you that Sudan continues to spiral into chaos; it is just the tip of the iceberg.” Her speech highlighted the severe consequences of the conflict in Sudan, particularly the indiscriminate bombings that target small communities, inflicting violence on innocent people who have not provoked such attacks.

Assistant Secretary-General for Africa Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee and Senior Programming Director at the Sudan Family Planning Association Limiaa Ahmed supported Edem Wosornu in her advocacy. They emphasized the devastating impact of war on women and girls, the significant role of humanitarian aid in supporting small communities and the importance of listening to the voices of youth amid the chaos.

Assistant Secretary-General for Africa Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee addressed the international community, stating, “Civilians are in the line of fire. Nowhere is safe for them. Despite efforts by the United Nations (U.N.) and regional organizations, we have not succeeded.” The joint statements by Pobee, Edem Wosornu and Limiaa Ahmed effectively highlighted the crisis, prompting many council members to urge warring parties to resume dialogue and emphasize the protection of citizens. Additionally, several speakers called for an end to external interference.

Addressing Nutrition and Hunger in Crisis

A significant challenge in aiding Sudan, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis that has left 26.6 million people food insecure, is ensuring proper nutrition. To address this, the World Food Programme (WFP) delivers life-saving food to some of the most inaccessible areas of the Darfur region. Since 2019, WFP has implemented the Sudan Country Strategic Plan, which outlines interventions to foster sustainable development, enhance nutrition and identify developmental priorities and gaps in communities. These strategic outcomes were formulated in close collaboration with national partners to bolster local capacity to combat hunger and malnutrition across Sudan.

Looking Ahead

The multifaceted crisis in Sudan, which includes political instability, conflict and natural disasters, has created a dire humanitarian situation. Organizations like the International Rescue Committee and Save the Children are actively working to provide essential aid, while U.S. foreign assistance and global advocacy efforts continue to raise awareness and support. The World Food Programme’s strategic interventions aim to address food insecurity and malnutrition, offering a lifeline to the millions affected. The collective response underscores the urgent need for sustained international support to mitigate the severe impact on Sudan’s vulnerable populations.

– Jacob Barker

Jacob is based in Ames, IA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Rwanga Foundation in Kurdistan: Support and Development

The Rwanga Foundation in KurdistanThe Rwanga Foundation is a nongovernmental organization (NGO) founded in 2013 by philanthropist Idris Nechirvan in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. Nechirvan began the charity with the aim of providing every child access to quality education. Since then, the foundation has expanded its reach and helped more than three million people.

History of the Kurdistan Region in Iraq

The Kurdistan region is no stranger to instability and the 2010s were a particularly challenging decade, marked by political turmoil, economic crisis and threats to security. In February 2014, the then-Prime Minister of Iraq blocked 17% of the federal budget constitutionally allocated to Kurdistan. This triggered a crippling financial crisis in the region as many Kurds rely on employment from the Kurdistan Regional Government for their livelihoods.

In June of that year, the Islamic State (ISIS) captured Mosul, Iraq. This led to an influx of Iraqi refugees into the Kurdistan region. In August, ISIS attacked Kurstian and implemented a genocidal campaign against the Yazidi people, prompting the United States (U.S.) to intervene. Liberation from ISIS was eventually achieved in October 2016.

In 2017, the independence referendum, where an overwhelming 93% of Kurds voted in favor, was met with severe repercussions from Iraq. The Iraqi army retook Kirkuk and closed Kurdistan’s airspace and borders, leading to the displacement of more than 100,000 Kurds. Despite these challenges, the decade ended with improved relations with Iraq and although the region has yet to recover fully, Kurdistan has remained resilient in the face of significant adversity.

The Rwanga Foundation’s Mission and Vision

The Rwanga Foundation is dedicated to improving Kurdish youth’s quality of life and providing avenues for educational growth in all sectors. The foundation emphasizes creating a culture and passion for learning by enhancing education standards in Kurdistan through services, capacity-building and policy design. The foundation’s vision is a world where quality education is accessible to everyone.

How It Operates

The Rwanga Foundation operates through four main sectors:

  1. Education: Rwanga aims to transform the culture of education into a continuous journey of learning. It works to develop platforms such as e-learning systems using the latest technology, allowing young people to discover their talents, fulfill their potential and improve their quality of life.
  2. Youth: Rwanga recognizes the power of youth and actively engages them within society to empower them to become the aspiring leaders of the future.
  3. Vulnerable groups: Rwanga believes in the transformative nature of education and hopes to extend the avenues of education and skill discovery to those living in poverty. The foundation believes education is a sustainable and lasting solution to the cycle of poverty.
  4. Environment: The foundation is committed to designing new strategies and solutions to safeguard the environment.

The Rwanga Foundation’s Latest Projects

  1. Message From Children Project: The project is an annual competition coordinated with the Kurdistan Parliament and the Ministry of Education. It encourages primary school students to express themselves through art. The best paintings are displayed in the Kurdistan Region Parliament building. This year’s subject is “How do you see yourself in 2045?”
  2. Empowering Sustainable Livelihoods 2023-2026: This project is a collaborative initiative funded by the Department of Migration, Stabilization and Fragility at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. It hopes to facilitate the sustainable long-term reintegration of Iraqi returnees into their communities by enabling a supportive environment. The project aims to strengthen the capabilities of governmental bodies and NGOs, thereby improving access to economic opportunities. Additional aims include assisting returning business owners and informing returnees about their rights and opportunities.
  3. Parcel of Smile: During the holy month of Ramadan, the Rwanga Foundation distributed 7,000 baskets containing essential food items. The baskets included rice, food oil, tomato paste, sugar, tea, lentils and white beans, and were distributed across the Kurdistan region.
  4. Planting 1000 Trees in Erbil: Sponsored by the Oval Company, the Rwanga Foundation planted 1,000 trees in May 2024 to increase the natural and urban forests in the region.
  5. You Are Not Alone Project: Since 2022, in cooperation with the General Directorate of Welfare and Social Development in Erbil, the project, which ran from February to August 2022, established a rehabilitation system for the Erbil orphanage. Using technology and human resources, Rwanga developed a strong management system for all orphanages across Iraq. This has empowered the children with psychological, educational and intellectual skills to achieve a bright and stable future.

Final Remark

More than a decade after its formation, the Rwanga Foundation has significantly improved the quality of life in the Kurdish region of Iraq. The continuous efforts of the Rwanga Foundation paint a hopeful future for Kurdistan, strengthening the region’s already resilient people.

– Fatima Naqavi

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

Photo: Pxhere

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How Conflict Fuels Poverty in Syria

How Conflict Fuels Poverty in Syria The Syrian conflict, now stretching into its second decade, has profoundly reshaped the nation’s socio-economic landscape. As the fighting persists, the humanitarian and economic toll intensifies, creating a vicious cycle of poverty in Syria.

Destruction of Infrastructure

Destruction of infrastructure is one of the most immediate and visible widespread consequences of the Syrian conflict. Attacks on various types of infrastructure, including public, private and health care facilities, remain largely unaccounted for. Bombings, artillery fire and ground battles have reduced cities to rubble, destroying homes, schools, hospitals and utilities. With basic infrastructure demolished, economic activities stall. Factories, farms and businesses cannot operate effectively, resulting in significant productivity losses. The lack of electricity, clean water and transportation further hampers efforts to resume normal economic functions, exacerbating poverty in Syria.

Displacement and Loss of Livelihoods

The crisis in the Syrian Arab Republic has displaced more than 12 million people across the region, with 6 million Syrians finding refuge in Egypt, Türkiye, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon. Displacement uproots families from their homes and communities, stripping them of their assets and means of income. In displacement camps and host communities, refugees face high unemployment levels. Competition for scarce resources and jobs often results in lower wages and poor working conditions. For those attempting to rebuild their lives, limited access to employment, education and health care perpetuates a cycle of poverty in Syria that is difficult to break.

Health Crisis

Almost a quarter of Syria’s hospitals are nonfunctional and cannot meet the growing health needs. More than 12.2 million people urgently need health assistance, but a shortage of workers and health care infrastructure has led to the collapse of the health care system. This collapse exacerbates poverty by increasing disease and disability burdens. Families must spend limited resources on medical care, often sacrificing other basic needs such as food and shelter. Chronic illnesses and untreated injuries impair individuals’ ability to work, further reducing household incomes and deepening poverty in Syria.

Education Disruption

The war in Syria has severely disrupted the education system, with many schools damaged, destroyed or repurposed as shelters for displaced people. This crisis has left more than 7,000 schools destroyed and resulted in two million children being out of education. A generation of children in Syria is growing up without ever having enrolled in school or received a proper education. To make ends meet, families often rely on child labor, pulling children out of school to work. This not only deprives children of their childhood but also limits their future economic prospects, perpetuating poverty in Syria.

Efforts by UNICEF and OXFAM

Efforts are underway to reverse the cycle of poverty in Syria. UNICEF is addressing this crisis by investing in climate-resilient technologies and systems, promoting learning, rehabilitating schools and scaling up unconditional cash transfers. In addition, OXFAM works across eight of 14 Syria governorates, providing clean water, distributing hygiene kits, promoting good hygiene practices in schools and giving families cash and food to meet their urgent needs.

Looking Ahead

The ongoing conflict in Syria has deeply entrenched poverty, disrupting infrastructure, displacing millions and collapsing essential services such as health care and education. Organizations like UNICEF and OXFAM are actively working to mitigate the crisis by providing crucial resources, rehabilitating schools and supporting basic needs. Despite the significant challenges, these ongoing efforts offer a pathway toward alleviating the severe economic and social impacts on the Syrian population, highlighting the critical importance of sustained international support.

– Rika Mokal

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

Photo: Pixabay

The Continuing Humanitarian Crisis in the DRC

Humanitarian Crisis in the DRCThe Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a multitude of intricate challenges, encompassing violence, food scarcity and mass displacement. Currently, the nation is grappling with a significant humanitarian crisis.

The Issues

Since March 2022, an alarming 2.8 million people have been uprooted from their homes in the North and South Kivu and Ituri provinces, underscoring the urgent need for a comprehensive humanitarian response. The situation has escalated to an unprecedented level, resulting in a staggering 6.3 million internally displaced people — the highest number in all of Africa. This crisis, fuelled by rampant violence, is not only tearing families apart but is also pushing communities to the brink of economic ruin. 

One of the most distressing aspects of this crisis is the prevalence of gender-based violence. With 31,000 registered cases, it is imperative to recognize that the true number is likely far higher, as many sexual crimes go unreported due to stigma and fear. The human rights violations that many women and girls endure are a reminder of the urgent need for effective protection mechanisms and access to justice. 

The DRC is also grappling with an alarming food crisis. An estimated 27 million people in the country do not have enough to eat, highlighting the pressing need for immediate intervention. Furthermore, a staggering 72% of the population lives in extreme poverty, making it exceedingly difficult for families to meet their basic needs. The intertwined nature of these challenges requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate suffering and restore hope. 

Support, Assistance and Solutions

The magnitude of this emergency is significant. In an effort to respond to the growing humanitarian needs, a total of £630 million has been raised for the humanitarian response plan as of June 19, 2023. However, despite these considerable efforts, the crisis endures, and its impact continues to escalate.

Change is being championed on a global scale. Initiatives such as providing business skills and training in the most impoverished areas aim to empower individuals to support their families. Climate-smart growing techniques, coupled with the necessary seeds and tools, are helping communities cultivate a balanced diet in their own gardens. Health centers and mobile clinics are being established to treat malnutrition, while the provision of cleaning supplies and clean water aims to prevent the spread of disease. 

These efforts have yielded significant results. In 2020, more than 15,000 individuals experienced positive changes in their lives due to these interventions. While these initiatives are undeniably making a crucial difference, it’s crucial to recognize that the need continues to be substantial. Also, a sustained global commitment is essential to bring lasting change to the millions affected by this ongoing crisis. 

Looking Ahead

The humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is characterized by violence, famine and mass displacement, necessitating immediate attention and collective efforts. The significant number of internally displaced people, the prevalence of gender-based violence and the food crisis underscore the urgency of the situation. However, amid these challenges, there are initiatives that aim to provide support, sustenance and medical care. The ongoing trends suggest that it is essential for the international community to work together to address the plight of the people in the DRC and to promote progress through coordinated action and ongoing support.

– Henry Tuppen
Photo: Flickr

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Hurricanes in Honduras: 7 Responses to Eta and Iota

Hurricanes in HondurasIn November 2020, Hurricane Eta and Hurricane Iota made landfall just two weeks apart in northeastern Nicaragua. The hurricanes spread across Central America. Honduras was one of the countries hit with severe destruction. In the wake of these storms, homelessness in Honduras reached all-time highs and an active humanitarian crisis unfolded as humanitarian organizations and policymakers struggled to contend with flooding, displacement and the spread of COVID-19. The aftermath of hurricanes in Honduras requires urgent humanitarian aid.

Poverty in Honduras

Nearly half of Honduras’ population lives in poverty. The poverty rate is higher in rural parts of the country than it is in urban centers. Whereas half of all Hondurans who live in the countryside subsist in varying states of poverty, less than half of all Hondurans who live in urban areas lead lives plagued by poverty,

The disparity between rich Hondurans and poor Hondurans is overwhelmingly large. A robust middle-class has yet to take shape in Honduras so Hondurans filter into one of two polarized class groups. A high rate of violence makes life treacherous for the poor.

Seasonal flooding has a detrimental effect on economic growth. Flooding from Hurricane Eta and Hurricane Iota combined with seasonal flooding make 2020 one of the worst years in Honduras’ history. Livestock and farmlands were swept away and Hondurans have had to search desperately for other means to feed themselves.

Homelessness and Hurricanes in Honduras

In 1998, three million Hondurans were made homeless by Hurricane Mitch and tens of thousands were forced to flee to the United States. The devastation that was unleashed by Hurricane Mitch is the closest analog to the combined effects of Eta and Iota. Reports on the rate of homelessness in Honduras after Eta and Iota remain incomplete, but it is undoubtedly high, similar in scope to the rate of homelessness in Honduras after Hurricane Mitch.

7 Responses to Hurricane Eta and Hurricane Iota

  1. Public Investment in Infrastructure and Social Programs. Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez plans to engage “four times the nation’s annual budget in infrastructure and social programs to help Hondurans recover from devastating storms.” His plan will put thousands of Hondurans to work rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure, so it works on two important levels. First, his plan creates jobs for Hondurans whose livelihoods were lost as a result of the hurricanes. Second, it will lead to necessary rebuilding projects.

  2. USAID Funding. By the beginning of December 2020, USAID had committed close to $50 million for humanitarian aid to meet the needs of Honduras’ relief efforts. Funding goes to securing “emergency food, shelter, urgent medical care, clean water, sanitation and hygiene.”

  3. USAID’s Honduras Emergency WASH and Shelter (HEWS) Program. In mid-December 2020, USAID announced that it will send packs of materials to “select families” through its HEWS program, which families can use to rebuild damaged or destroyed homes. Experts will also be sent to teach families how to use the material that has been sent and to work alongside families during the initial stages of the rebuilding process.

  4. Project HOPE Emergency Medical Teams. In remote villages, where poverty rates tend to be highest, villagers have scarce access to medical services. Project HOPE medical teams focus on these locations because unsanitary water supplies have been identified there. Also, cases of COVID-19 have been reported.

  5. Project HOPE WASH Program. Potable water is provided to 3,000 families through Project HOPE’s WASH program. Additionally, resources for sanitizing water, including chlorine and training materials, are provided to families so that water purification practices can be carried out indefinitely.

  6. AMDA Emergency Relief. Relief supplies, including food, coverings and hygienic supplies, were distributed to several dozen families through a partnership between AMDA and AMDA-Honduras. The rate of homelessness in Honduras is so high that many people have taken shelter in nursing homes. Hondurans who lost their homes as a result of Eta and Iota live side by side with Honduras’ elderly. Similar AMDA relief packs were distributed throughout such facilities.

  7. Distribution of KN95 and Surgical Masks. Concerns about the spread of COVID-19 have accompanied the disastrous effects of Hurricane Eta and Hurricane Iota. Project HOPE distributed hundreds of thousands of KN95 and surgical masks to activists, doctors and frontline workers throughout Honduras to help contain the spread of COVID-19.

Hope on the Horizon for Honduras

Hurricanes in Honduras coupled with COVID-19 created severe consequences for people living there. Long-term concerns include the effect that lack of adequate health services will have on mothers, pregnant women, newborns and young children. Many humanitarian organizations are prioritizing aid to remote parts of the country to mitigate the effects of isolation. The spread of disease is an additional concern. A comprehensive solution to the crisis at hand will involve combined efforts.

– Taylor Pangman
Photo: Flickr