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Poverty in Palestine

Poverty in PalestineThe World Bank estimates that half a million jobs have been lost in Gaza since the start of the conflict on October 7, 2023. In mid-2023, the overall poverty rate in Palestine stood at 32.8%, a 3.7% increase from 2017. Today, the World Bank states that nearly every Gazan lives in poverty. Although Israeli occupation and sanctions had already stifled the Palestinian economy, the war on Hamas has plunged Gaza into “utter ruin,” according to a U.N. report. The damage to infrastructure and natural resources, the interruption of education and the loss of life in Gaza mean that it could take 350 years for the strip’s economy to return to its pre-conflict levels.

Despite the fact that 40% of the Gazan population relied on humanitarian aid in 2023, Israel impedes organizations like the WHO and UNRWA from delivering essential assistance. Ilze Brands Kehris, the U.N.’s Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights, stated that “the humanitarian and human rights situation for Palestinian civilians across Gaza is catastrophic” and referenced the “strong likelihood of famine.” Poverty in Palestine is, therefore, extreme and acute.

Blockade and Sanctions

Years of occupation and sanctions had already turned off the Gazan economy. Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza appropriate Palestinian land and natural resources. Whereas Israeli settlements have access to high-quality water, only 10% of Gazans enjoy this human right. Additionally, Israel implemented a 300-meter buffer zone around the border of Gaza, which citizens are not allowed to access or cultivate. This means that Israel, in fact, controls 24% of the territory designated as Gaza.

Israel has exercised complete control over Gaza’s land, sea and air border since the beginning of the “blockade” in 2007. Under these sanctions, Israel has control over how much fuel, electricity, water and aid enters Gaza, as well as who is allowed to enter and exit. There are also reports that Israel engages in systematically spraying herbicide along the “buffer zone,” which is inside the territory of Gaza.

The practice started in 2014, resulting in further damage to the small amount of arable land left to Palestinians living in Gaza. Crosswinds carry the herbicides into Gaza, causing crop destruction miles away from the border buffer zone. Palestinian officials claim that the spraying of herbicides has damaged more than 420 acres of land in the Gaza Strip. The Israeli Defense Force’s (IDF) justification for the spraying is to “enable optimal and continuous security operations.”

Trade Restrictions

Restrictions placed on Palestinian trade by Israel mean that Palestinian goods and services are far less competitive on the market than their Israeli counterparts. The U.N. notes that the average trade cost per transaction for a Palestinian firm is nearly three times higher than for an Israeli firm. Barriers to trade with other countries mean that Palestine is overly reliant on Israel as its sole trading partner.

In 2022, 72% of Palestinian trade was with Israel. These measures imposed by Israel to contain and restrict Palestinian life contribute to the overall impoverishment of Palestinians. The U.N. found that, on average, for every eight cents a Palestinian earns, an Israeli earns $1. Even so, the currency union (the Israeli shekel is widely used in Palestine), customs union and geographical proximity tie living costs in Gaza with those of Israel, a much more advanced economy.

Impact on Education and Employment

Citizens of Gaza are well educated, with a literacy rate of 97.1%, yet the poverty of Palestine due to the occupation by Israel means that qualified professionals are unable to find jobs in Gaza or travel to look for work elsewhere. For instance, Said Lolo is a Palestinian man who holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations. Unable to find a job in Gaza, he is forced to work 14 hours a day selling coffee to support his family of nine. He sleeps at his cafe and only goes home once a week.

Conclusion on Poverty in Palestine

Despite the hostility between the Israeli government and Hamas, there are a number of Israel-based human rights groups. The groups are doing essential work in documenting Israel’s violations and advocating for Palestinian rights. B’Tselem, an Israeli human rights organization, has been working to monitor Israel’s activities for more than 30 years. It takes its name from an allusion to a passage in Genesis, meaning, “And God created humankind in His image. In the image of God did He create them.” The organization takes this reference to symbolize its commitment to “the universal and Jewish moral edict to respect and uphold the human rights of all people,” exemplifying the belief that there is no contradiction between being Israeli and advocating for Palestinian rights.

Adalah, an Arab human rights group based in Israel, focuses on promoting the rights of Arab citizens within Israel. The charity’s legal advocacy has enabled it to defend Bedouin rights to land in Israel and represent Palestinian victims of Israeli violence in court, among many other important victories. Without the advocacy of rights groups like these, Palestinians in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza would receive little visibility. It’s thanks to their work in advocating and documenting Israeli violations that the international community is apprised of the situation. These groups are essential in laying the groundwork for Palestinian representation that could lead one day to full Palestinian sovereignty.

– Io Oswald

Io is based in Paris, France and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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AFRYDEV: Empowering Women and Youth in Northeastern Nigeria

AFRYDEVThe Northeastern geopolitical zone of Nigeria has been grappling with a severe crisis largely driven by the activities of Boko Haram, an Islamist terrorist jihadist organization. This violent extremist group has inflicted significant harm on innocent citizens. Boko Haram’s ideology is rooted in establishing a “pure” Islamic state governed by Sharia law.

The group’s operations have gained traction in the region due to a confluence of socioeconomic factors, including widespread poverty, hunger, lack of education and limited social development.

African Youth for Peace Development and Empowerment (AFRYDEV), a nongovernmental organization established in 2013, is actively addressing the escalating challenges of poverty, gender-based violence (GBV) and socioeconomic inequality in this region.

The Situation in Northeastern Nigeria

The Northeast, Nigeria’s largest geopolitical zone, has been a conflict zone since 2009 when Boko Haram declared its goal to form an Islamic State in the region. In response, in 2013, the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) declared a state of emergency and launched military operations in the area. However, as of 2019, the conflict has resulted in more than 35,000 deaths and displaced more than two million people, including women and children. Furthermore, more than eight million people in the region are in need of humanitarian aid.

With the extremist group still a threat, carrying out attacks across different villages in the Northeast, many families are struggling to meet their basic needs in the face of relentless insecurity. Poverty remains rampant, with many households lacking access to essential services such as health care, education and safe water, perpetuating a cycle of deprivation and social instability. The ongoing conflict has worsened vulnerabilities, particularly for women and girls, who face heightened risks of gender-based violence (GBV) and exclusion from economic opportunities.

AFRYDEV recognizes that these issues are intertwined and significantly hinder the potential for sustainable development and peace within these communities. Therefore, as a youth- and women-led organization, AFRYDEV is dedicated to tackling the critical issues of poverty and hunger through innovative and targeted interventions aimed at addressing the essential needs of insurgency-affected communities.

AFRYDEV’s Strategy

AFRYDEV employs a multifaceted approach to address the intertwined challenges of poverty, GBV and socioeconomic inequality in conflict-affected regions of Northeast Nigeria. Its strategy is rooted in community engagement, peacebuilding and socioeconomic development. The NGO actively involves local stakeholders, including women, youth, traditional leaders and government representatives, in the design and implementation of its programs. This participatory approach fosters ownership and ensures that AFRYDEV’s initiatives are responsive to the specific needs and aspirations of the communities it serves.

For instance, its Youth Peace Camp Project empowers vulnerable youth through leadership and civic engagement training. It also establishes youth community service clubs that promote active participation in local governance, creating a platform for transparency, accountability and collaborative nation-building. Similarly, through projects like the European Union’s Support to Early Recovery, AFRYDEV facilitates the reintegration of women and girls affected by Boko Haram, enhancing social cohesion while also providing vocational training and economic opportunities.

Additionally, AFRYDEV’s focus on gender-sensitive programming ensures that women and girls are not only protected from GBV but are also empowered to participate fully in economic and social life. By combining humanitarian assistance with capacity-building initiatives, the nonprofit aims to transform communities, promote social stability and pave the way for a more peaceful and equitable society in northeastern Nigeria.

Empowering Women and Youth

AFRYDEV has empowered more than 50,000 women and youths through various initiatives aimed at promoting active citizenship, leadership and skills development. The establishment of youth community service clubs has further strengthened community ties and encouraged active participation in local governance. In Yobe State, its collaboration with various stakeholders has led to the successful reintegration of more than 1,000 girls and women who were previously abducted by Boko Haram insurgents, highlighting the organization’s commitment to social acceptance and healing.

Furthermore, programs like ‘’Resilience Building through Livelihood’s Support to Promote Durable Solutions’’ have provided sustainable livelihood options through the restoration of market systems, protection and income generation starter packages to more than 10,000 people affected by the conflict. The Community Clean-up Project in Borno State has improved the physical environment and also fostered a sense of inclusion and economic opportunity among marginalized youth, thereby building trust within communities.

The outcomes of AFRYDEV’s efforts extend beyond immediate interventions, contributing to broader socioeconomic development and resilience in the region. Its focus on livelihood and economic empowerment has provided training and resources to vulnerable women and girls, enabling them to start their own businesses and contribute to their families’ incomes. This approach has led to improved economic stability and has equipped individuals with marketable skills, fostering long-term self-sufficiency.

Additionally, AFRYDEV’s training programs for community stakeholders have enhanced local capacities in conflict resolution and dialogue, facilitating sustainable peace and human rights advocacy. Overall, the positive changes brought about by AFRYDEV’s work are evident in the strengthened community relationships, increased engagement in governance and enhanced well-being of conflict-affected populations, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and resilient society.

Final Note

AFRYDEV is committed to providing life-saving protection services to address the impact of the humanitarian crisis on vulnerable women, adolescent girls, boys and men in host communities, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees. The organization focuses on an integrated, survivor-centered and community-based approach to address gaps identified in the prevention and response to GBV in conflict-affected communities in northeastern Nigeria. This includes providing access to life-saving services for GBV survivors, skills building and livelihood options through localizing the production of dignity kits and reusable menstrual hygiene kits. These initiatives aim to improve the economic security of women and adolescent girls, leading to enhanced reproductive health outcomes and financial stability.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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Academics Stand Against Poverty: Solutions for a World in Need

Academics Stand Against PovertyWith half of the human population, around 3.5 billion, still exposed to severe poverty, a group of dedicated scholars and researchers are taking a stand. Academics Stand Against Poverty (ASAP) is an international community committed to confronting the rules and practices that perpetuate global poverty. It aims to advocate for targeted, evidence-based reforms that can make a real difference in the lives of millions.

The Challenge: A Complex Web of Poverty

Poverty is not simply a lack of resources; it’s a complex web of interconnected issues. ASAP focuses on the structural drivers of poverty, which include:

  1. Illicit financial flows and tax havens
  2. Imbalanced trade agreements and intellectual property laws
  3. Economic policies such as austerity measures

These systemic issues create barriers that keep individuals and communities trapped in cycles of poverty. In our current “post-truth” world, where “alternative facts” often overshadow evidence-based research, ASAP’s work is crucial.

Academics Stand Against Poverty and Its Innovative Solutions

ASAP is tackling these challenges through a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Research and Advocacy: ASAP members conduct rigorous research to identify the root causes of poverty and develop evidence-based solutions. They then advocate for these solutions at various levels, from local communities to international policy-making bodies.
  2. AGAPE Initiative: ASAP has launched the Ambedkar Grants for Advancing Poverty Eradication (AGAPE) program, which provides competitive funding and mentoring for jumpstarting innovative pilot projects in severe poverty eradication. These projects are selected based on their potential for cost-effective scale-up.
  3. Collaborative Partnerships: ASAP works with other organizations to maximize impact. For example, it has partnered with Global Financial Integrity and Yale’s Global Justice Program to award the annual Amartya Sen Prizes, encouraging further research and innovation in addressing illicit financial flows.
  4. Education and Awareness: Through publications, conferences and public engagement, ASAP works to raise awareness about poverty issues and potential solutions among both academic and non-academic audiences.

Global Network: Fellowship Program and Chapters

ASAP’s global network of 19 chapters across the globe is a testament to its commitment to fostering academic dialogue and collaboration. With a strong presence among universities and academics in the global South, ASAP focuses on creating opportunities for those who face barriers to full participation in global academic dialogue.

ASAP’s growing network of members and national and regional chapters is the driving force behind its impact on global poverty. The organization connects like-minded faculty, students and researchers from different disciplines around the world with a common goal: to look at practical and achievable ways to tackle the systemic root causes that perpetuate poverty.

Success Stories

ASAP’s innovative approach is already yielding results. In its first year of operation, the AGAPE initiative made four awards in India, demonstrating the program’s commitment to supporting grassroots solutions. One notable project is the Snekithi Charitable Trust in Tamil Nadu, which received more than $2,300 for an initiative to raise the productivity and incomes of Dalit women farmers in the rain-fed areas of Karur District.

This project not only addresses poverty but also tackles issues of gender and caste inequality. While the full impact of these projects is still unfolding, they represent a promising start in ASAP’s mission to eradicate severe poverty. By supporting local initiatives with global expertise, ASAP is creating a model for sustainable, community-driven change.

Final Note

ASAP’s work offers hope in the face of daunting global challenges. By combining rigorous academic research with practical, on-the-ground solutions, ASAP is paving the way for a world structured to avert poverty. Its efforts show that when knowledge meets action, real change is possible.

In a world often divided by ideology and misinformation, ASAP stands as a beacon of evidence-based hope. ASAP challenges us all to think critically about the causes of poverty and to act decisively in creating a more just and equitable world for all.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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The Impact of Custos Care Foundation

Custos Care FoundationCustos Care Foundation (CCF), a nongovernmental organization based in Enugu State, Nigeria, aims to promote social justice and reduce poverty and inequality by empowering underprivileged groups through skills development, health care, well-being and basic education. By working closely with local communities and partners, CCF seeks to drive sustainable change in Enugu State and beyond.

The Mama Care Initiative

According to a publication by PubMed, data from the obstetric unit of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in Enugu, Nigeria, shows that between January 2003 and December 2005, there were 49 maternal deaths, 2,131 deliveries and 2,044 live births. This results in a maternal mortality ratio of 2,397.3 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births during the study period. In response, CCF recently launched the “Mama Care Initiative,” a significant milestone in providing one-year health insurance premiums for 1,701 pregnant women across Enugu State’s 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs), with approximately 100 per LGA in the pilot phase.

A notable case involved a baby from the Oji River LGA who was born prematurely at a primary health care facility. The family was unable to secure the funds necessary to transfer the infant to a secondary facility equipped with an incubator. However, with the assistance of CCF, the baby was successfully transferred to the UNTH, where she received the necessary care and support needed for her health and survival.

Child Abuse Awareness and Sensitization

CCF is currently organizing sensitization programs in primary schools across the 17 LGAs in Enugu State to raise awareness about child abuse. This initiative is anchored in two key program areas: social protection and basic education for all. The objective is to educate school pupils in Enugu State about child abuse, including its identification and prevention. So far, CCF has visited 13 schools, reaching approximately 6,000 pupils directly and more than 5,000 indirectly through media campaigns, including social media outreach.

Skills Acquisition Training for Women and Youth

The issue of poverty, exacerbated by unemployment and a shortage of skills, has significantly impacted the living standards of the population. While the current government in the state has made commendable efforts to build workforce capacity, the organization is also dedicated to bridging the capacity gap.

Through the CCF’s “Craft UP Initiative,” the foundation has trained 68 women and youth in the state in vocational skills related to leather work, including shoemaking, bag making and belt production. To further support their endeavors, it established a skills acquisition center focused on tailoring and leatherworking.

This center provides these individuals with the opportunity to utilize our state-of-the-art industrial machines at no cost, enabling them to produce high-quality goods in larger quantities.

Youth Aspire Boot Camp 2024

In 2024, CCF hosted a four-day youth boot camp for 100 young people from Enugu State, consisting of both male and female participants, alongside more than 30 volunteers and resource persons. Participants aged 15 to 20 were selected from various locations across the state, with a commitment to inclusivity that ensured equitable representation across gender, social status and abilities.

The youths acquired a diverse range of skills, including information and communication technology (ICT) competencies such as coding and the creation of 3D and 2D animations. They also developed vocational skills in areas like weaving, tailoring, bead-making, social media marketing and content creation.

Final Remark

By engaging with local partners and communities, Custos Care Foundation not only provides essential services but also cultivates a culture of empowerment and resilience. As it continues to bridge gaps in health, education and vocational training, CCF stands as a beacon of hope for underprivileged groups in Enugu State, driving meaningful progress and inspiring a brighter future.

– Staff Reports
Photo: Flickr

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How Inequality and Mental Health Fuel Global Poverty

Inequality and Mental HealthInequality is not just an economic challenge; it’s deeply psychological, influencing how individuals perceive themselves, others and society. Disparities in living conditions and opportunities profoundly affect mental well-being, leading to cycles of marginalization that erode trust, weaken social cohesion and harm mental health. This acceptance of inequality can become entrenched in societal norms, making it harder to challenge. However, understanding these psychological dimensions also reveals avenues for political and social change, as shifting perceptions can fuel efforts to reduce these disparities.

Understanding Global Inequality

Global inequality is marked by the uneven distribution of resources, opportunities and power, leading to significant differences in living standards. This issue is not only global but also deeply rooted within nations where social stratification creates rigid hierarchies based on power, status and wealth. For instance, the bottom 50% of the global population controls just 2% of the world’s wealth, while the top 10% commands 76%. Although global inequality between countries has slightly decreased, internal disparities within nations have widened, revealing an alarming trend of growing inequality even as some global measures improve.

Psychological Dimensions of Inequality

  1. Perceptions and Their Impact: How people perceive inequality is crucial in understanding behavior and societal cohesion. Perceptions, shaped by relative or absolute measures, influence how individuals view their place in society and their potential for upward mobility. Misjudgments in these perceptions can obscure or exaggerate the true extent of inequality, affecting personal choices and reinforcing societal dynamics that perpetuate the status quo.
  2. Mental Health Consequences: tyle=”font-weight: 400;”>>The psychological toll of inequality is profound, particularly when it comes to mental health. Dr. Greig Inglis from the University of the West of Scotland, who has extensively researched poverty stigma and its mental health effects, explains, “The most commonly discussed form of poverty stigma is discrimination, where people living in poverty are treated unfairly because of their financial situation. However, there are other forms of stigma, such as the anxiety about how others might treat them in the future due to their financial difficulties.” Inglis further notes that “the evidence is clear that poverty stigma is detrimental to mental health, often leading to low self-esteem, depression and other signs of mental ill-health.”

This stigma often traps individuals in a cycle where mental illness and poverty exacerbate each other, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Mental health struggles can lead to exclusion from economic opportunities, further deepening poverty. Moreover, poor mental health is closely linked to other health problems, reducing productivity and economic stability. Addressing mental health in these populations is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality.

Mechanisms Perpetuating Poverty

  1. The Role of Perception and Self-Interest: People’s perceptions of inequality are shaped by their environment and personal interests, with social and media cues playing a significant role. These perceptions can lead to biased views that reinforce existing inequalities, as individuals support policies that align with their interests, often benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the poor.
  2. Income Disparities and Social Stratification: Income inequality is a major driver of poverty, creating entrenched cycles that are difficult to break. Social stratification further solidifies these disparities, limiting social mobility and trapping those born into poverty. Overcoming these barriers requires systemic change that addresses the root causes of inequality rather than just its symptoms.

Global Efforts to Tackle Inequality

The Business Commission to Tackle Inequality (BCTI) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have launched significant initiatives to address global inequality. BCTI’s 10-point action agenda focuses on embedding social performance and accountability into business practices. At the same time, the IMF has expanded its efforts to include fiscal redistribution, social spending and inclusive growth.

In response to COVID-19, the IMF doubled access to emergency financing, approving $116 billion for 85 countries, provided debt relief grants through the Catastrophe Containment and Relief Trust (CCRT) and collaborated on the Debt Service Suspension Initiative (DSSI) for low-income countries. Additionally, the IMF allocated $650 billion in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to bolster global economic stability during the crisis. These initiatives highlight the importance of addressing both the economic and psychological dimensions of inequality as part of a comprehensive strategy to reduce global poverty.

Conclusion

Addressing mental health and emotional barriers that sustain inequality can create more just and equitable societies. While economic growth is necessary, it alone may be insufficient; changing perceptions and breaking down psychological barriers are vital for fostering sustainable development and global social equity.

– Sandeep Kaur

Sandeep is based in Manchester, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Tackling Poverty Through Education in the Middle East

Education in the Middle EastEducation is a key determinant of economic stability and growth. In the Middle East, where poverty levels are high, access to education can significantly affect an individual’s economic prospects. According to Maher Hamoud, a professor of political economy at the University of Leuven, Belgium, “People tend to be easily manipulated when the level of education is low.” However, the relationship between education and poverty is not merely about individual empowerment; it also affects broader sociopolitical dynamics.

Hamoud notes that “a serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation” to see significant societal changes. Unfortunately, the political instability in many Middle Eastern countries often disrupts long-term developmental planning, leading to inconsistent progress. For example, the 1967 Six-Day War between Egypt and Israel severely interrupted Egypt’s educational programs, demonstrating how conflict can derail efforts to improve schooling and, by extension, economic stability.

Current Educational Programs

Several initiatives throughout the region aim to address disparities. The World Bank’s Arabic Initiative focuses on improving the quality of education in the Middle East. This program emphasizes curriculum development, teacher training and technology integration in the classroom to provide students with the skills needed to compete in a globalized economy.

Amideast is another crucial player in the region. It offers academic opportunities that promote cross-cultural understanding and scholarly achievement. By providing professional training, English language instruction and scholarships, Amideast helps students from underprivileged backgrounds access quality education and improve their economic prospects. The organization’s initiatives have benefitted more than 1,900 exchange and scholarship students and empowered 19,000 youths and women through special programs.

Save the Children, known for its work in crises, has also been instrumental in the Middle East. The organization runs programs that provide schooling to youth in conflict zones, ensuring that even in the most challenging circumstances, young people have the opportunity to learn. These initiatives are crucial in regions where conflict and displacement have disrupted traditional education systems.

New Possibilities to Bridge the Inequality Gap

While existing programs have made significant strides, much work still exists to ensure all youth have access to quality education in the Middle East. One promising approach is the implementation of cash transfer programs, which provide financial incentives for families to keep their children in school. Cash transfer programs give money to increase a household’s income, reduce poverty and improve well-being. They have been successful in other regions and could help reduce economic barriers in the Middle East.

Investments from governments and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are also essential. Hamoud highlights the importance of sustained efforts, noting that “governments tend to avoid seriously investing in education.” He points to examples like Singapore, Malaysia and Kuwait, where long-term investment in education has led to significant improvements. Similar commitments in the Middle East could yield substantial benefits, facilitating a more educated and economically stable population.

Digital solutions offer another route for expanding educational access. Online learning platforms, mobile teaching initiatives and cyber classrooms can reach students in remote areas or conflict zones. These technologies can also standardize education across the region, ensuring that all students have access to the same high-quality resources. Despite physical and logistical challenges, today’s technology offers avenues to bridge inequality.

Looking Forward

Access to education in the Middle East is critical in reducing poverty levels. While current programs have made significant contributions, there is still a need for innovative solutions and sustained investment. With new possibilities such as cash transfers, investments and digital solutions, the region can work toward a future where every child can receive a quality education, regardless of socioeconomic background. Hamoud pointed out, “A serious educational development plan must be implemented for at least a generation.” With the right strategies, the Middle East can make significant strides toward alleviating poverty and achieving long-term economic stability.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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3 Organizations Providing Education for Children in Malaysia

Education for Children in MalaysiaMalaysia, located just south of Thailand in Southeast Asia, is home to more than 35 million people. Major cities include Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and Johor Bahru. Recently, Malaysia’s education system was ranked second in the region based on test scores. However, it also placed last in Southeast Asia. While some families can afford quality education for their children, others living below the poverty line struggle to prioritize education. It is difficult for families with lower incomes to spend money on education when they have so many other needs that they need to tend to. Organizations like Dignity for Children Foundation, Teach For Malaysia and Budimas Education Charity Fund are dedicated to providing educational opportunities for children from impoverished families in Malaysia.

Dignity for Children Foundation

Founded in 1998, the Dignity for Children Foundation aims to provide quality education to impoverished children. Its mission includes support programs, education initiatives, a farm academy and various enterprises designed to offer a well-rounded education that prepares children for employment.

Through donations, child sponsorships and the efforts of many volunteers, the foundation has significantly impacted the lives of impoverished children. Starting with 20 students in 1998, the foundation now supports 2,300 students aged 2 to 19 as of 2024. In addition to offering free quality education, the foundation also provides meals.

Teach For Malaysia

Established in 2010, Teach For Malaysia aims to reduce educational inequality across the country. The organization recruits and trains individuals to work in under-resourced schools, ensuring that all children have access to quality education regardless of their family’s financial situation. Partnering with the Ministry of Education, Teach For Malaysia addresses impoverished students’ challenges and advocates for systemic change.

Students taught by Teach For Malaysia’s fellows experienced 36% more academic growth than their peers. By training and placing new teachers in schools with high needs, the organization significantly impacts education in Malaysia.

Budimas Education Charity Fund

Founded in 2001, the Budimas Education Charity Fund is dedicated to making education more accessible for all. In Malaysia, where many children would have to travel more than 40 kilometers to reach school, the organization works to bring education closer to those in poverty.

The Budimas Education Charity Fund has established 12 libraries in underprivileged areas, providing thousands of books and spaces for children to complete schoolwork and engage in educational activities. By offering free books and educational resources in regions with limited school access, the organization is committed to enhancing education for less privileged children in Malaysia.

Final Note

While accessing quality education in Malaysia can be extremely challenging for underprivileged children, organizations like the Dignity for Children Foundation, Teach For Malaysia and Budimas Education Charity Fund are making significant strides to address educational inequality. These three organizations have positively impacted many lives by improving access to education and resources. Although the statistics and rankings regarding education in Malaysia may raise concerns, efforts by these organizations offer hope for a brighter future.

– Poppy Duggal

Poppy is based in Chevy Chase, MD, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Uyghur Health Care Disparities in Xinjiang

Uyghur Health Care DisparitiesThe Uyghur population in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) faces numerous health care challenges. These challenges contribute to the overall hardships experienced by this ethnic minority. These plights stem from systemic discrimination, inadequate health care infrastructure and human rights violations, all of which exacerbate poverty.

Current Health Care Situation

The distribution of health care services in Xinjiang is highly unequal. Approximately 80% of the region’s health care infrastructure is concentrated in urban areas predominantly inhabited by Han Chinese. Consequently, rural Uyghur communities are forced to rely on substandard and unregistered clinics. Moreover, reports indicate that Uyghurs have been subjected to forced medical treatments, including sterilizations and organ harvesting. These practices violate basic human rights, instill fear and mistrust in the health care system and discourage many from seeking assistance.

Impact on Poverty

Uyghur health care disparities compound existing poverty levels. Poor health reduces an individual’s ability to work and contribute economically. The lack of adequate maternal and child health care services has also led to higher infant mortality rates, further hindering the community’s development. This has created a vicious cycle of poverty and illness.

Health care inequalities contribute to the broader economic divide in Xinjiang. Employment discrimination and social exclusion limit Uyghurs’ opportunities for upward mobility. The economic marginalization fuels ethnic unrest and perpetuates a sense of injustice among the Uyghur population.

NGO Efforts and Interventions

Several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have stepped in to address such challenges. These organizations focus on research-based advocacy, raising awareness of human rights violations and pushing for policy changes to improve health care access. The Uyghur Human Rights Project (UHRP) and Human Rights Watch (HRW) document and report crimes against humanity, advocating for global recognition and condemnation of these practices. Such efforts aim to increase international pressure on the Chinese government to improve conditions and ensure the rights and well-being of the Uyghur population.

On the ground, organizations like Muslim Aid USA are taking vital steps to aid Uyghur refugees by providing essential health care services. It established medical clinics and mobile health units in refugee camps and urban settlements, offering maternal and child health services, vaccinations and treatment for common illnesses. Additionally, it recognizes the psychological trauma many refugees endure and is working to provide mental health support. These efforts are crucial in mitigating the Uyghur health care disparities that result in their impoverishment.

Positive Prospects and Technology

Technological advancements such as telemedicine offer innovative solutions to bridge the health care gap. By leveraging digital platforms, providers can reach remote Uyghur communities with medical consultations, health education and monitoring services. Telemedicine is a step toward improving their well-being and empowering individuals to take charge of their health. With continued advocacy and international support, there is potential for progress in Uyghur health care access and quality to create a more equitable future.

– Asiya Siddiqui

Asiya is based in Fremont, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Raising the Hong Kong Minimum Wage

Hong Kong Minimum WageHong Kong is consistently ranked one of the world’s most expensive cities, with some of the least affordable housing and, so too, the most luxurious lifestyles. However, according to the Hong Kong Poverty Situation Report for 2020, 23.6% of Hong Kong’s population – around 1.65 million people – live in poverty and are unable to afford necessities.

The charity Oxfam has been active in Hong Kong since the ’70s and set up a domestic program team in 1996. In 2018, Oxfam Hong Kong commissioned the Chinese University of Hong Kong to conduct research on the national living wage. This was the first of its kind in Hong Kong, but it was just the beginning of the organization’s work to tackle poverty in the city.

Those Below Hong Kong’s Poverty Line

Although the overall median household income was HK$29,000 (about $3,480) in 2023 (a 1.7% increase since before the COVID-19 pandemic), Oxfam argues that the growing disparity between the poorest and the wealthiest in Hong Kong society, largely due to the slow financial recovery of the poorest households after the pandemic, should act as “alarm bells for the whole of society.”‘

Hong Kong’s poorest residents made almost 60 times less than its wealthiest in the first quarter of 2023. Oxfam, citing the Census and Statistics Department, states that in the first few months of 2023, the median monthly income of the poorest 10% of households stood at HK$2,300 ($276), 57.7 times less than the wealthiest 10% of households, which earned HK$132,600 (approximately $16,000) in the same period.

Hong Kong’s “poverty line” operates on the principle of relative poverty. This means any household earning less than 50% of the median monthly household income before tax and welfare transfers is considered to be living in poverty. However, the 2024 Legislative Council Panel on Welfare Services Latest Work Progress on the Commission of Poverty states that the official ” poverty line” only takes household income as the sole indicator of their economic situation.

Wong Shek-hung, the Director of the Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan Oxfam program, argued that a Hong Kong minimum wage that only considers household income is not enough. Shek-hung states that food costs increased by more than 7% from December 2019 to December 2022. She also pointed out that energy costs increased by more than 11% within the same period, which reflected similar cost increases around the world.

Oxfam’s Work

Oxfam believes that the growing disparity between the wealthiest and poorest in Hong Kong society clearly displays how “inequality breeds poverty.” Therefore, Oxfam supports various initiatives to help make a difference for those who need it most. Oxfam lobbies the Hong Kong government to consider the cost of living, such as the cost, as mentioned earlier, of necessities like food and energy when determining the poverty threshold.

Oxfam is aware that society’s poorest bear the brunt of adverse climatic conditions’ negative effects. So, the organization urges the Hong Kong government to develop official policies to support those living in poor conditions in adapting to different climatic conditions and increasingly frequent dramatic weather events. This includes a heat index that would stop outdoor work in high temperatures to reduce the risk of heat stroke. Oxfam also encourages the government to review the Hong Kong minimum wage in a post-COVID-19 society, as the path to financial recovery is much more difficult for lower-income households.

Results and Final Comments

The Hong Kong minimum wage was frozen at HK$37.50 ($4.78) from 2019 up until 2023 when, thanks to lobbying from organizations like Oxfam, the government raised it by HK$2.50 ($0.3) to HK$40 per hour ($5.1). This was a huge step for labor organizations in Hong Kong, but Oxfam argues that it is still not enough.

Oxfam found that nearly 210,000 people in Hong Kong were living in poverty in 2023 despite being employed. It stated that a minimum wage of $5.1 per hour was still lower than what a family of two would receive through social security programs. Oxfam Hong Kong continued to urge the government to raise the minimum wage to “at least 45.5 Hong Kong dollars.”

The government announced in May of 2024 that it planned to raise the Hong Kong minimum wage by 4.5% to HK$41.85 ($5.36). These small changes are thanks to the work of those at Oxfam Hong Kong, who are defending the lowest earners in society. Their advocacy is a testament to the change that can be made by lobbying governments about the most vulnerable in society.

– Kristina Grant

Kristina is based in Scotland and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Guatemala’s Economic Growth and Equality

Guatemala’s Economic GrowthIn the past three decades, Guatemala has experienced a steady economic growth trajectory, yet this progress has not translated into significant reductions in poverty or inequality. Since the signing of the 1996 peace accords, which ended a 36-year civil war, the Guatemalan economy has grown at an average annual rate of 3.5%. This period of economic expansion saw the gross domestic product (GDP) growth rates of 4.1% in 2022 and 3.6% in 2023​.

However, these figures mask a deeper issue: the benefits of this growth have not been evenly distributed across the population. Urban areas, particularly Guatemala City, have seen substantial investment and development, while rural and indigenous communities continue to lag. This disparity highlights the challenge of achieving inclusive growth that benefits all segments of society.

Key Drivers of Economic Growth

Guatemala’s economy is largely driven by the private sector, which contributes approximately 85% of the country’s GDP. The services sector is the largest, accounting for 68% of GDP. This includes a wide range of activities such as banking, tourism, retail and telecommunications. The manufacturing sector, contributing 14%, is also a vital component, with industries such as food processing, textiles and pharmaceuticals playing significant roles​​.

Agriculture, though comprising only 10% of GDP, remains a critical sector, employing a substantial portion of the population and producing key exports like coffee, sugar and bananas. Additionally, remittances from Guatemalans living abroad, particularly in the United States (U.S.), are a crucial economic lifeline, contributing significantly to household incomes and foreign exchange reserves​.

Persistent Poverty and Inequality

Despite Guatemala’s economic growth and stability, poverty and inequality remain pervasive issues. As of 2023, approximately 55.1% of Guatemala’s population lives in poverty, with indigenous and rural communities bearing the brunt of this economic hardship​​. These communities often have limited access to education, health care and employment opportunities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty.

The informal sector is a substantial part of the economy, accounting for 49% of GDP and employing 71.1% of the workforce​. This sector is characterized by low wages, job insecurity and lack of social protections, which further exacerbate economic disparities. The country faces significant human capital challenges, with high rates of child malnutrition and limited access to basic services such as clean water, sanitation and electricity​.

Efforts and Challenges

Various initiatives have been undertaken to address these socioeconomic challenges. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has been active in Guatemala, implementing programs aimed at improving financial management, fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to create a more conducive environment for business growth and to empower local entrepreneurs.

However, the effectiveness of these initiatives is often undermined by systemic issues such as corruption and governance weaknesses. Corruption remains a significant problem, affecting public trust and the efficient allocation of resources.

Potential for Future Growth

Guatemala has considerable potential for future growth, thanks to its rich natural resources, cultural heritage and strategic geographical location. The country is rich in minerals such as gold, silver and nickel, which present opportunities for the mining sector. Its cultural heritage and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for tourism, which can be a significant source for Guatemala’s economic growth. 

– Sofia Reynoso

Sofia is based in Tampa, FL, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project

Photo: Pexels