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Everything You Need To Know About Poverty in Rwanda

Poverty in RwandaThe Republic of Rwanda, colloquially referred to as the Land of a Thousand Hills, is a small nation situated to the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Comparable in size to the state of Massachusetts, three main ethnic groups live in Rwanda: the Hutu, the Tutsi and the Twa. Although these groups share a common culture and language, people have sustained historical tensions, most tragically culminating in the 1994 genocide that significantly shaped the country’s identity. Rwandan officials and the United Nations have made remarkable efforts to alleviate the deep-rooted poverty in Rwanda that these tragic events exacerbated. Nevertheless, challenges remain, with approximately 38.6% of the population living below the poverty line.

Land Scarcity

In a country where 82% of the population resides in rural areas and 62% of the workforce is employed in agriculture, land scarcity is a significant issue and exacerbates poverty in Rwanda. Since the 1940s, the Rwandan population has increased almost sevenfold; now, with 525 people per square kilometer, Rwanda is the most densely populated country in Africa. The average farm size in Rwanda is a mere 0.4 hectares, which is far too small to sustain a single family, resulting in challenges to food security and livelihood sustainability.

Consequently, as the population continues to boom in size, the struggle for arable land intensifies, contributing to a cycle of land degradation and increased rural poverty. For instance, overploughing and soil erosion has degraded 45% of Rwandan land. Policymakers have urgently needed to address the scarcity of arable land in Rwanda, who have launched initiatives to reduce these intertwined social and economic issues. Government responses have included encouraging farmers to merge plots and increase productivity, which inheritance laws have hindered; promoting high-yield crops like maize on smaller plots of land; and implementing anti-erosion projects to restore soil fertility.

The Link Between Chronic Malnutrition and Poverty in Rwanda

Intrinsically linked to overpopulation and land scarcity, chronic malnutrition is another defining cause of poverty in Rwanda. Approximately one-fifth of Rwandan households experience severe food shortages, perpetuating a cycle of diets that are deficient in essential nutrients. Subsequently, more than 60% of Rwandan children rely on a starch-based diet, causing them to be small, underweight and chronically malnourished, with the average life expectancy being less than 70 years old. As a result, Rwandan children, particularly in rural areas of the Western provinces, suffer from stunted growth. The stunting rate in Rwanda has declined from 44% in 2010 to 33%, which is now in line with the average for Sub-Saharan Africa.

Governmental initiatives and NGO projects have worked to relieve the malnutrition plaguing Rwanda. Government programs include the Girinka program, which provides cows to low-income families to increase milk consumption, and the 1,000 Days program, which targets pregnant women and infants with fortified food. Meanwhile, the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) has advocated for fortification policies that mandated iron and zinc in staple foods since 2016.

Changing Weather Patterns

Despite experiencing notable economic growth in recent years, Rwanda remains vulnerable to the multifaceted impacts of unpredictable weather patterns, which have substantially exacerbated existing poverty levels. Climate phenomena particularly affect the agricultural sector, a cornerstone of the Rwandan economy and the primary source of livelihood for most of its population. Erratic rainfall patterns have led to reduced crop yields. At the same time, catastrophic flooding events in 2020 destroyed more than 9,383 hectares of farmland, damaging or destroying approximately 8,143 houses and disrupting local food systems.

Moreover, changing weather patterns have intensified the prevalence of severe food insecurity and agricultural failure within the country. In the aftermath of the 2023 drought, staple food prices surged to 40.4%, further straining the economic capacity of low-income households. Notably, around 80% of Rwanda’s rural poor population relies heavily on rain-fed agriculture. Thus, weather shocks push them deeper into the cycle of poverty. While people have admirably made climate resilience, with the Green Climate Fund pledging $39.1 million for Rwandan adaptation projects, without global aid, it is the most vulnerable who will continue to bear the brunt as drastic weather changes exacerbate poverty in Rwanda.

Future of Poverty in Rwanda

While the Rwandan government, with the aid of various NGOs and global organizations, have made a remarkable effort to reduce poverty in Rwanda, it is still prevalent. The road ahead demands local empowerment and international solidarity. While Rwandan progress has been commendable, lasting progress necessitates scaling up climate-smart agriculture, strengthening safety nets and global investment to bolster grassroots activism, initiatives and infrastructure. Poverty in Rwanda is not inevitable, and with continued collaborative innovation, the struggles of today can become opportunities of the future.

– Emilia Bartle

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

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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Vulnerable Communities: Yellow Fever in Peru

Yellow Fever in PeruThe Amazon rainforest offers amazing natural landscapes, but the dangers of diseases transmitted by tiny mosquitoes, like yellow fever, lie within them. Since early April 2025, Peru has seen an increase in yellow fever cases, mostly in vulnerable populations in the depths of the jungle and agricultural areas.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a disease transmitted by day-biting mosquitoes. It is considered a “High-threat disease” by the World Health Organization (WHO). Yellow fever does not have a specific antiviral drug to fight it once the virus is in the body. The best way to fight it is by preventing it with vaccination.

In early April, Peruvian authorities reported an outbreak of yellow fever cases in the regions of Amazonas, San Martín and Loreto. Yellow fever could reach a high 60% mortality rate in these regions because only a few people have been vaccinated in the past years.

The reach of vaccination campaigns shrank and vulnerable populations in less accessible areas like the jungle were affected. Twelve people died by the end of the month, all of them from vulnerable areas and without any records of previous vaccinations.

Effects on Vulnerable Populations in Peru

Mortality rates are higher among vulnerable populations, with 37 people already infected. Further, the U.S. Embassy in Peru and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued health alerts about the yellow fever outbreak, advising people to avoid areas affected by the disease. These warnings could result in reduced tourism, leading to a loss of income for many businesses that rely on it for their livelihood.

One of the biggest challenges preventing the disease is the logistical difficulty of distributing vaccines to remote areas. Vast distances and difficulty maintaining the cold chain in hard-to-reach regions significantly hinder vaccination coverage.

What Is the Government Doing?

The Peruvian government is trying to reactivate its vaccination campaigns, making resources available for people to find the closest vaccination centers. Peru’s Ministry of Health has announced a free vaccination campaign throughout the summer of 2025.

The Ministry of Health also sent 30,000 vaccines to the Amazon region in the past month, while volunteers are going town by town to vaccinate communities far from the few existing vaccination centers. However, Peru is not fighting the outbreak alone.

Since yellow fever also affects neighboring countries like Colombia and Ecuador, the Peruvian Ministry of Health joined forces in late April to launch a joint vaccination campaign along the border to prevent the disease from spreading between countries.

Final Remarks

Even though yellow fever has already claimed some lives in Peru, the government is taking action to prevent further spread and protect more people. Certain regions will inevitably face the consequences of this outbreak and the full economic impact, especially on families and businesses affected by the drop in tourism, remains uncertain until the epidemic is under control. 

– Luis Felipe Rios

Luis is based in New York, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pxhere

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Policies to Reduce Poverty in Nigeria

reduce poverty in NigeriaNigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has long struggled with high poverty rates despite its abundant natural resources. Recent estimates from the World Bank reveal that around 40% of Nigerians live below the poverty line. Rural areas are particularly affected, with poverty rates nearly double those of urban regions. This ongoing challenge to reduce poverty in Nigeria persists, even though Nigeria holds the title of Africa’s largest economy and remains a significant oil producer.

Early Policy Responses

A comprehensive effort to reduce poverty in Nigeria is the National Social Investment Program (NSIP), introduced in 2016. Key components include:

  • N-Power Programme. Targets unemployed graduates and nongraduates aged 18 to 35. It offers skills training, job placements and stipends. Since its launch, 960,000 participants have enrolled across agriculture, health, education and technology sectors.
  • Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT). Provides N5,000 monthly to extremely poor households. Beneficiaries must meet conditions like school enrollment for children and regular health checkups.
  • Home-Grown School Feeding Program. Supplies one nutritious meal daily to primary school children, boosting enrollment and supporting local agriculture.
  • Government Enterprise and Empowerment Program (GEEP). Offers microloans through platforms such as MarketMoni, FarmerMoni and TraderMoni to small businesses and artisans.

President Tinubu’s Antipoverty Initiatives

Since assuming office in 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has introduced several transformative policies:

  • Consumer Credit Scheme. Launched in February 2024, this program improves access to credit, allowing Nigerians to buy essential goods and build credit histories.
  • CNG Bus Initiative. Following the removal of fuel subsidies, compressed natural gas–powered buses were deployed in major cities to provide affordable transportation alternatives.
  • Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund. A N20 trillion ($22 billion) fund dedicated to investing in critical infrastructure like roads, education, power and railways, aiming to stimulate job creation.
  • Expanded Conditional Cash Transfer Program. Extended to cover 15 million households, each receiving a monthly N25,000 to cushion economic reforms.
  • Food Security Council. Established to boost local food production and curb inflation. The Central Bank also supported farmers by distributing 2.15 million bags of fertilizer valued at N100 billion.

Positive Outcomes from Recent Reforms

Although many initiatives are still in early stages, initial results show progress:

  • Increased Government Revenue. The removal of fuel subsidies freed up more than N1 trillion in the first six months, according to the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun. These savings are being redirected toward development projects.
  • Growth in Foreign Investment. Exchange rate unification led to a surge in foreign direct investment. Investor commitments have surpassed $30 billion since the reforms began.
  • Agricultural Output Increases. Pilot regions report higher yields of staple crops like rice, maize and cassava, reflecting renewed government focus on agriculture.
  • Consumer Credit Expansion. As of November 2024, more than 25,000 civil servants accessed the credit scheme. Projections expect this figure to grow to 400,000 participants by the second quarter of 2025.

Looking Ahead

Poverty in Nigeria remains a persistent challenge. However, recent policy shifts under President Tinubu’s administration reflect a multi-pronged approach to economic recovery and poverty reduction. With early indicators of progress in government revenue, investment inflows and agricultural output, Nigeria is laying the groundwork for broader, long-term improvements. Sustained commitment to these reforms will be critical to achieving lasting change and improving livelihoods for millions of Nigerians.

– Vanuza Antonio

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

Photo: Flickr

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Transitional Government Aims to Rebuild Syria After Civil War

Rebuild SyriaThe Syrian civil war, which started in 2011, destroyed the country’s economy and infrastructure as armed groups loyal to different sides fought for control over many local economic hubs. This led to the destruction of sprawling urban centers and infrastructure nationwide. However, in December 2024, Syrian opposition forces ousted the Assad regime, marking a turning point in the nation’s history. Now, a transitional government is leading efforts to rebuild Syria through diplomatic measures.

A Free Market Economy

According to Al Jazeera, under the opposition group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the transitional government wants to establish Syria as a free market economy. As a step towards this, the government reopened the Nasib border crossing with Jordan, one of Syria’s busiest trading routes.

The government will be trying to establish new economic protocols to stabilize the public sector. The focus right now is on necessities such as electricity. However, the country’s economy currently revolves around informal markets that don’t have official oversight, resulting in a hard-to-follow capital flow that will be a challenge to capitalize on.

Reforming Government Ministries

Mohammed Abazeed, finance minister, told Reuters that government ministries would be reformed to improve accountability and efficiency, leading to a 400% increase in public sector salaries by February. The government also plans to overhaul the tax system to benefit all taxpayers. These improvements in various sectors will help Syria. 

However, the country still suffers from sanctions other nations imposed on it during Assad’s regime. The Assad regime received sanctions from many countries in the West, such as the U.S. and the U.K. These sanctions forced the regime to look to Iran and Russia for funding, but now that the old regime has been ousted, the new transitional government inherited those sanctions without a direct source of outside financing to counter them.

Removing Economic Sanctions

The transitional government led by interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa is in diplomatic talks with the U.S. and European Union (EU) countries to remove economic sanctions. The U.S. government did label HTS as a terrorist organization;

However, on December 20, 2024, the U.S. government removed a $10 million bounty for al-Sharaa. The U.S. is also leading talks with Gulf Arab states to remove sanctions so long as the new government cuts ties with Russia and Iran, according to Al Jazeera.

A Peaceful Resolution

Armed groups and militias still control much of Syria. Many of these groups fought the HTS or remained wary of their intentions. As a show of peace, the transitional government invited delegates from all over Syria to a national dialogue conference on February 25.

Al-Sharaa and his government are trying to reach a peaceful resolution with other armed groups by involving them in rebuilding and creating a unified army from these groups. However, the Syrian Democratic Forces have refused to disarm and give up their territory.

Conclusion

Many Syrians remain hopeful for the future. Diplomatic talks with nations such as Türkiye remain consistent for the transitional government, potentially allowing for foreign investment. Syria remains in a precarious position but is consolidating a plan to rebuild.

– Jonathan Joseph

Jonathan is based in Milwaukee, WI, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Virunga Alliance: Rebuilding the DRC

Virunga AllianceThe Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is actively working to rebuild and redevelop after decades of war and mismanagement that crippled the nation. The DRC, one of the largest countries in Africa, has a population of more than 100 million people. The nation has been at the center of regional conflicts, including the First and Second Congo Wars, which were among the most destructive in recent history. These conflicts created long-term socio-economic instability, which continues to impact the region. To combat these challenges, the Congolese government has implemented National Action Plans (NAPs)—a series of strategies designed to promote social cohesion and economic development.

National Action Plans for Stability and Growth

The first National Action Plan (NAP), implemented in 2010, focused on improving the rights of women and girls within local communities. The plan aimed to integrate women into the local economy and improve their societal standing. However, the government viewed this initial effort as a learning experience, identifying implementation weaknesses, according to PeaceWomen.org.

Applying these lessons, the government adopted the second NAP in 2018, with an implementation period from 2019 to 2022. This plan built upon the first by increasing women’s participation in local political organizations, allowing them to advocate for their rights and economic opportunities. Additionally, the second NAP aimed to curb the small arms trade in eastern DRC, where the majority of rebel groups operate. These armed groups control a large portion of the Congo River Basin, home to nearly 60 million people. Restricting the flow of small arms limits their firepower, but the root cause of these groups—economic instability—remains a significant challenge.

While the region is fertile, many people lack access to credit, preventing them from fully developing agricultural markets. Instead, most rural inhabitants rely on subsistence farming and fishing, with little opportunity for economic advancement. Economic instability has forced many individuals into illegal trades, including poaching for ivory, extortion and kidnapping. From 2017 to 2019, these activities resulted in more than 6,000 civilian deaths.

Virunga Alliance: A Model for Sustainable Growth

To address these ongoing issues, the Congolese government partnered with Virunga National Park to launch the Virunga Alliance—an initiative aimed at creating a sustainable economic model that expands the job market and aligns local economies with the natural landscape.

The Virunga Alliance focuses on three key sectors: tourism, energy and agriculture.

  • Reviving Tourism. Before armed conflicts disrupted the region, Virunga National Park was as popular as the Serengeti. The Alliance aims to rebuild infrastructure and improve governance, paving the way for a new wave of tourists. Since the park reopened in 2014, more than 17,000 visitors have returned—an early sign of progress.
  • Sustainable Energy Development. Revitalizing the energy sector is key to economic recovery. The Virunga Alliance has constructed three hydroelectric facilities, providing electricity to nearly 1 million people. The initiative also offers a loan-based electricity system for businesses, allowing them to access power and repay loans based on usage. More than 127 local entrepreneurs have joined this program, using sustainable energy to develop businesses.
  • Expanding Agricultural Markets. Infrastructure and electricity improvements are enabling local farmers to tap into regional and international markets. With better food storage facilities and improved roads, agricultural businesses can increase exports, creating a cycle of economic growth. As these businesses expand, job opportunities multiply, strengthening local economies.

Looking Ahead

The implementation of these programs is expected to strengthen local economies and stabilize communities affected by decades of conflict. While challenges remain, initiatives like the National Action Plans and the Virunga Alliance demonstrate that sustainable economic development is possible. By investing in women’s empowerment, small business support and infrastructure projects, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is taking critical steps toward long-term economic recovery.

– Jonathan Joseph

Jonathan is based in Milwaukee, WI, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Parish Development Model: Uganda’s Solution to Poverty

The Parish Development ModelThe Parish Development Model (PDM) is a strategy introduced by the Ugandan government in 2022 to promote wealth creation and improve service delivery at the household level. The PDM focuses on communities at the parish level, the smallest administrative unit of the government and the one closest to communities. This proximity ensures that goods, services and benefits from the PDM directly impact local communities.

The government aims to prioritize key commodities like coffee, tea and oils to create wealth-generation opportunities within PDM areas. The program operates through seven key pillars: production, processing and marketing, infrastructure and economic services, financial inclusion, social services and community data.

While the PDM aspires to reduce poverty and improve household incomes and quality of life, it is not Uganda’s first poverty reduction initiative. Many previous programs have failed, with some funds reportedly embezzled, as acknowledged by the President of Uganda. According to the World Bank, four out of 10 Ugandans currently live in poverty. The PDM is seen as a critical, last-ditch effort to reverse this trend and solve poverty within the country.

Objectives of the Parish Development Model

The primary goal of the PDM is to transition 39% of Uganda’s population or 16 million households, from subsistence farming to commercial farming, enabling them to participate in the money economy. The PDM also aims to improve service delivery efficiency at the parish level, offering hope to low-infrastructure communities. The government envisions the program as a key economic solution to alleviate poverty across various regions, setting a five-year timeline to achieve its objectives that started in 2022.

The World Bank predicted Uganda’s economic growth to reach 6.2% in 2025, up from 5.3% in 2023. During Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day celebrations, the President announced that 67% of the population is already engaged in the money economy. If implemented successfully, the PDM could increase this figure significantly. This initiative is also a critical component of Uganda’s Vision 2040, which aims to transform the country from a predominantly peasant-based economy to a modern and prosperous one.

Implementation of the Parish Development Model

The government first identified the right households through community research and vetting to implement the PDM and ensure that the most vulnerable communities benefited. It assessed key factors such as income, education, agriculture and savings to determine which households still relied on a subsistence economy.

The next step involved creating and funding trusts that would allocate the appropriate funds to the right areas. Enterprise groups were formed, consisting of members eligible under the PDM scheme. Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) were established to support these groups, with one PDM SACCO designated for each enterprise group.

The PDM SACCOs are managed and controlled by enterprise group members, who make decisions regarding funds, programs and infrastructure plans. Members of the enterprise groups can request loans through the SACCOs, which are specifically aimed at fostering self-employment and supporting business ideas. PDM SACCOs provide loans to households at a 5% interest rate, with repayment terms set by the respective SACCOs.

The first phase of the PDM established 10,585 SACCOs. Further, it disbursed $239 million in loans to numerous households, effectively making the PDM SACCOs function like community banks for enterprise group members.

Challenges

The PDM faces several challenges, primarily due to the vast number of communities it needs to cover and its ambitious goal of transitioning 16 million households into the money economy. However, two key challenges requiring urgent attention include:

  1. Financial Constraints. The PDM adopts a “one size fits all” approach, which has resulted in unequal benefits across regions. Each beneficiary household received close to $270. Similarly, each parish gets $27,000. Nonetheless, regions like Acholi, Karamoja and Busoga, which still heavily rely on a subsistence economy, are so far disproportionately targeted in the disbursement of PDM funds.
  2. Inefficiencies. The average number of households per SACCO is between 75 and 109. However, in regions heavily dependent on subsistence farming, the number ranges from 400 to 600 households per SACCO. This places an overwhelming burden on SACCOs, leading to unequal distribution of funds and challenges in providing adequate oversight. Overburdened SACCOs struggle to monitor loan repayment and assess the progress of households effectively, limiting the program’s overall impact.

Outcome

As of 2024, the PDM has achieved several milestones and benefited numerous households. Out of the 10,585 households registered under the PDM project, 7,950 have actively borrowed and received funds from SACCOs fund. The households have invested in both agricultural and nonagricultural businesses. Notably, 53% of the households that have accessed SACCO funds are women. The PDM initiative offers loans at significantly lower interest rates at 6% compared to 18% charged by commercial banks. This reduced burden allows households to fully implement their business ideas and achieve more excellent financial stability.

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance also developed an information system to collect and store data from various parishes. This system monitors loans disbursed, tracks loan repayments and oversees the distribution of funds to parishes from the central government. This step is crucial in achieving the PDM’s Pillar 3 objective of financial inclusion.

Conclusion

The PDM represents the Ugandan government’s ambitious and innovative strategy to tackle poverty. Furthermore, it promotes economic inclusion at the grassroots level. By prioritizing key commodities, promoting financial inclusion and providing affordable loans through SACCOs, the PDM has already demonstrated its potential to uplift vulnerable households and communities.

However, the program’s success hinges on addressing critical challenges, including financial constraints and inefficiencies in resource allocation. Tailoring solutions to meet the unique needs of different regions and improving oversight mechanisms will be essential for achieving the PDM’s full potential.

As Uganda moves closer to its Vision 2040 goals, the PDM stands as a cornerstone initiative, promising to transition millions from subsistence to a commercial economy. If implemented effectively and inclusively, it could serve as a model for other nations striving to eradicate poverty and create sustainable economic growth.

– Zacc Katusiime

Zacc is based in Kampala, Uganda and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Addressing Elderly Poverty in Azerbaijan

Elderly Poverty in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan’s government and international initiatives are reducing elderly poverty in Azerbaijan, but the world still needs to take more action to fight it. The Asian Development Bank estimated that Azerbaijan’s poverty rate was 5.5% in 2022, as opposed to the World Bank’s estimate of 49.6% in 2001, showing a significant decrease in poverty. However, it is not an uncommon sight to see elderly people working in manual labor well after their retirement age. Here is more information about elderly poverty in Azerbaijan including what is being done to address it.

Economy and Demography in Azerbaijan

Ever since gaining its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has been experiencing gradual economic development efforts. Poverty rates have decreased steadily, and the country is slowly progressing into a position of economic stability despite economic challenges such as the economic crisis of 2009.

Azerbaijan’s population of 10 million is expected to increase by 8.8% by 2050 according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects that Azerbaijan’s GDP will grow by 2.5% in 2025 which the IMF described as moderate growth. The percentage of those 60 years or older in Azerbaijan is 11.6% and the World Bank is expecting that the number of elderly to make up 25% of the population by 2050.

The WHO also estimated that Azerbaijan’s life expectancy has increased by 7.68 years in 2021 compared to 2000 which means that the average Azerbaijan today will live until 72.9 years rather than 65.  All of this threatens an increase in elderly poverty in Azerbaijan due to increased constraints on the pensions and benefits system.

The Pensions System and Working Age in Azerbaijan

Much of the progress that Azerbaijan has made in fighting poverty and elderly poverty in the 2000s is due to its rapid economic growth which led to reforms to the pensions system. Pensions increased from 42% of the subsistence level in 2001 to 95% in 2008, according to the European Commission for Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion. This change led to a decrease in poor households. These changes were part of the reason for the elimination of poverty amongst retirees in Azerbaijan.

However, elderly poverty is still a problem in Azerbaijan despite these reforms with those 65 years-old or over and living alone among the most vulnerable groups for poverty and social exclusion according to the European Commission.

Azerbaijan continues to make progress in access to its pension system to fight elderly poverty such as the introduction of an automatic and electronic pension payment system in 2019, which led to easier access to pensions. For example, during the first eight months of 2021, authorities automatically appointed 16,299 people, representing 60.2% of all pension assignments.

The Dependency Ratio

The World Bank expects Azerbaijan’s dependency ratio to increase from 44 dependents per 100 working-age persons in 2010 to 54 dependents per 100 of the working population by 2050 with old-age being the main driver of this increase. The dependency ratio is a measure of those who work and contribute the pensions and benefits system compared to those who do not work and rely on pensions and benefits. Azerbaijan’s rising population is also primarily driven by old age and increased life expectancy with reforms to pensions being the main policy used to fight elderly poverty, meaning that Azerbaijan will need more help to ensure that its policies promote more employment in order to fight elderly poverty.

Looking Ahead

Azerbaijan has made significant strides in reducing elderly poverty, but challenges remain due to its aging population and growing dependency ratio. Economic growth and pension reforms have helped but continued efforts are still needed to ensure that Azerbaijan’s pensions system and growth plans are well-equipped for its expected demographic changes. For example, there are currently no big global NGO initiatives fighting elderly poverty in Azerbaijan.

– Takey Elbarky

Takey is based in the UK and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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UK Foreign Aid Shift Risks Global Poverty Efforts

UK Foreign Aid Shift Risks Global Poverty EffortsThe United Kingdom’s (U.K.) foreign aid budget and international policies continue to shift, sparking concerns about their impact on global poverty alleviation. The government has committed to maintaining aid at 0.5% of Gross National Income (GNI) until at least 2029. However, critics argue that reallocating aid resources limits the reach of poverty-focused initiatives worldwide.

Aid Budget Cuts and Spending Priorities

Since 2020, the U.K. has reduced its foreign aid budget from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI. This cut remains in place despite earlier promises to restore the higher level when economic conditions improve. A significant portion of the current aid budget now covers in-donor refugee costs. In 2022, 29% of total Official Development Assistance (ODA) supported domestic refugee programs. That percentage increased further in 2023 due to rising migration and asylum pressures. These changes have fueled debates about whether the U.K. has diverted funds meant for international aid toward internal expenditures.

Cutting Global Health Funding

The U.K. also plans to reduce its contributions to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (Gavi), an organization that has vaccinated more than a billion children in developing countries and prevented nearly 18 million deaths over the past 25 years. As U.K. funding declines, Gavi’s capacity to distribute vaccines in vulnerable regions weakens. Aid organizations warn that these cuts could reverse progress in child mortality reduction and burden already fragile health care systems.

Tougher Refugee Citizenship Policies

The U.K. government has tightened refugee policies, making it harder for those arriving through unauthorized routes to gain British citizenship. Refugees who entered the country irregularly now face disqualification from citizenship applications. Critics argue that this policy contradicts the 1951 Refugee Convention and leaves many asylum seekers in legal limbo without a clear path to permanent residency.

Military Aid vs. Development Aid

While the U.K. reduces funding for health and humanitarian programs, it has significantly increased military assistance. Since February 2022, the U.K. has committed £12.8 billion in support to Ukraine, including £7.8 billion for military aid. In 2024/25 alone, the U.K. pledged £4.5 billion in military support. This shift reflects a growing focus on security rather than direct development initiatives, raising questions about the balance between defense spending and poverty reduction efforts.

The Future of UK Aid

The U.K.’s evolving aid priorities highlight an ongoing debate about the nation’s role in global development. The government defends its spending decisions, citing economic constraints and domestic pressures. However, critics argue that cutting aid to health, education and humanitarian projects undermines the U.K.’s leadership in poverty reduction and global health initiatives.

Looking Ahead

The Labour government, elected in July 2024, has emphasized poverty reduction, climate finance and gender equality as key aid priorities. Officials plan to release spending strategies for 2025/26 in the summer of 2025, with expectations of further refinements to aid allocation. The U.K.’s climate, humanitarian and health-related aid programs will likely face continued scrutiny amid shifting budget priorities. As international needs grow due to climate change, global health crises and conflict, the direction of U.K. aid could play a crucial role in shaping the future of vulnerable communities worldwide. Ensuring aid allocation aligns with poverty reduction goals remains essential to sustaining progress in global development.

– Arianna Distefano

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

Photo: Flickr

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Uzbekistan’s Anti-Poverty Program

Uzbekistan’s Antipoverty Program Uzbekistan, a landlocked country in central Asia with a population of 36 million, has improved living conditions and reduced economic hardship. The nation’s GDP grew by 5.5% in 2023, reflecting steady progress in economic development. However, income inequality remains a challenge, particularly in remote regions with scarce employment opportunities. Nearly one in 10 Uzbek youth struggle to find stable jobs, highlighting the need for targeted workforce development. To address these disparities, the government has introduced a large-scale initiative focused on vocational training, education access and job creation, aiming to elevate living standards and foster long-term prosperity.

Poverty in Uzbekistan

Despite Uzbekistan’s progress in reducing poverty, challenges remain, particularly in rural areas, where nearly half the population lives. Limited access to essential services and economic opportunities continues to hinder development in these regions. The national unemployment rate stands at 6.8%, but job opportunities remain scarce in many areas. Youth face particularly high unemployment, with 24% struggling to find work. Informal employment, which operates outside government regulation, remains widespread, further complicating efforts to ensure stable and secure job opportunities across the country.

“From Poverty to Prosperity” Program

To tackle poverty and lift 1 million people out of economic hardship, the Government of Uzbekistan partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to launch the “From Poverty to Prosperity” initiative in late 2024. The program prioritizes vocational training and job creation to address employment challenges. Although Uzbekistan currently has 250,000 job vacancies, many low-income individuals lack the necessary skills and training to qualify for these positions.

Uzbekistan’s anti-poverty program aims to bridge this gap by expanding job training programs, equipping participants with essential skills and increasing access to stable, well-paying employment. Beyond workforce development, the program emphasizes education for children from low-income families, expanding access to higher education and increasing enrollment in preschools. By investing in skills training and education, the initiative seeks to build long-term economic stability for individuals and communities across Uzbekistan.

Recent Progress

Since 2020, the Uzbekistan government has made poverty reduction a national priority. Significant resources have been invested into the movement and the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has even declared  poverty reduction a “national movement.” Social programs have been modernized and expanded in recent years, assisting the poor. This investment in fighting poverty has already yielded significant results, with the poverty rate falling from 17% in 2021 to 11%. Rural areas, which have higher rates of poverty than urban areas, have seen the largest poverty reduction, declining by 7.8 percentage points.

Looking Ahead

Uzbekistan’s anti-poverty program demonstrates the country’s continued investment in education, workforce development and social programs, positioning the country to meet its goal of lifting 1 million people out of poverty in 2025. The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program marks another step toward sustainable economic growth and improved living standards. With government investments and strategic reforms, Uzbekistan is on track to further reduce poverty and create a more inclusive economy.

– Matthew Wornom

Matthew is based in Yorktown, VA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Fragility and the Rule of Law in Egypt

The Rule of Law in EgyptEgypt, the most populous Arab country with more than 112 million people, ranks high in the human capital and development index. Beneath this progress, however, lies a complex reality of fragility and the erosion of the rule of law in Egypt. Since 2013, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s government has enacted significant changes to Egypt’s institutional and legislative framework, including constitutional amendments and new regulatory measures affecting civil society organizations, media outlets, and public assembly. Despite these issues, Egypt faces significant economic fragility, marked by poor planning, high foreign debt and vulnerability to external shocks. Together, these challenges threaten the nation’s stability and development prospects. 

Erosion of the Rule of Law

Since 2013, when the military ousted the democratically elected government of Mohammed Morsi, the state has been reasserting its authority with Fattah el-Sisi at the helm to prevent potential dissidence with the regime. Shortly after the coup, the new government passed a law that restricts peaceful assembly. Human Rights Watch has criticized El-Sisi’s government for violating international standards. This law allows security forces to arrest peaceful protesters arbitrarily. It subjects them to a fine or up to five years in prison.

According to Amnesty International, Fattah el-Sisi’s government systematically enacts undemocratic laws to disintegrate the rule of law in Egypt, which undermines Egypt’s stability. Fattah el-Sisi uses the pretense of preventing terrorism to crack down on a pluralist society, such as the Law of Organizing the Lists of Terrorist Entities and Terrorists, which enables the government to pursue its opponents legally.

Fattah el-Sisi’s government also passed a constitutional amendment in 2019, changing the constitutional two-term limit. This amendment enabled El-Sisi to be reelected for a third term in December 2023 with 89.6 % of the votes. Egypt feigns stability under Fattah el-Sisi’s rule. However, the erosion of the rule of law in Egypt and justice institutions bolsters grievances and distrust against the state, which increases the risk of political extremism. 

Egypt’s Economic Challenges

Among the erosion of the rule of law, Egypt faces fragility. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has agreed to increase Egypt’s $3 billion by $5 billion, which will see the Egyptian Pound plummet. Egypt’s economy suffers from decades-old poor planning, weak institutions and a dominant state that deters investment. Heavy foreign debt under Fattah el-Sisi has led to reliance on costly domestic borrowing and worsening deficits. 

Amid internal economic turmoil, Egypt has proved fragile to external turmoil. Its proximity to the Gaza Strip heightens risks to the tourism industry, which accounts for 24% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Moreover, revenues from the Suez Canal, a significant source of foreign currency, have decreased by 60% as Houthi attacks in the Red Sea undermine shipping. In addition, since Egypt imports 40% of its food, it is highly susceptible to external shocks, such as a rise in global food prices due to the war in Ukraine. 

The Good News

Despite Egypt’s challenges, the government aims to improve the quality of life of its most impoverished citizens. The “Decent Life” initiative tackles multidimensional poverty and unemployment by enhancing families’ economic, social and environmental conditions in underserved villages. It aims to ensure access to essential services and create job opportunities to promote citizen self-reliance. The government committed around $9 billion to realize its development goals in rural areas and has strong support from the political leadership. 

According to a report by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MPED), the quality of life index has improved by 18% and the poverty rate has decreased by 14%. The MPED noted improvements in sustainable development goals, health service coverage improving by 24% and sanitation coverage by 46%. The initiative has thus far created 71,000 job opportunities in eight governorates. As of December 2024, the initiative’s first phase is 85.5% complete. Targeting approximately 18 million rural Egyptians, it is one of the world’s largest rural development projects.

Final Remark

The erosion of the rule of law in Egypt and its fragility highlight the intricate balance between governance and development. While the state grapples with weakening institutions and economic instability, the “Decent Life” initiative demonstrates a commitment to improving living standards and addressing poverty in rural areas. These development strides in health, education and essential services show potential for positive change amid broader adversity. However, sustainable progress requires bolstering the rule of law and addressing the root causes of economic fragility to foster long-term stability.

– Salome von Stolzmann

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

Photo: Pexels