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The Connection Between Disability and Poverty in Micronesia 

Disability and Poverty in MicronesiaThe Federal States of Micronesia (FSM) is an island nation in Oceania that gained its independence from the U.S. in 1986 with the signing of The Compact of Free Association. This agreement cemented the FSM as a sovereign nation while ensuring that the U.S. would continue financially assisting their government. Since then, U.S. aid to Micronesia has continued to develop. In 2004, the U.S. signed an Amended Contract with the FSM, which includes “provisions related to governmental relations, immigration, and defense and security matters.” Despite these foreign aid agreements, the net change in Micronesia’s poverty rates have been strikingly negative. Additionally, there is a significant correlation between disability and poverty in Micronesia.

A Quick Look at the Numbers

In 1993, the Household Income and Expenditure Survey showed that 30% of Micronesian households fell below the poverty line, and in 2013, a survey that the World Bank did showed that 41.2% of the population fell under the poverty line. 

This 11.2% increase in poverty rates over the span of only 20 years is not a random phenomenon. In 2003, the Micronesian federal government interviewed citizens from three of the country’s four states, Chuuk, Yap and Pohnpei, in a “Participatory Assessment of Hardship.” This assessment found that “landlessness, increasing drug and alcohol abuse, overcrowded households, and natural disasters” along with “the deterioration of customs and traditions… [and] restrictions brought by traditional beliefs” are the largest factors impacting poverty rates and hardship in the FSM. 

What Does This Have to Do With Disability?

Disability and poverty in Micronesia are intrinsically tied. The largest markets in the FSM’s economy are farming and fishing, but because of the dispersed quality of the country’s geography and population, it is very difficult to make a profit selling produce and goods without commuting. Individuals who are unable to travel are often also unable to make an income. In a testimony taken by the Asian Development Bank, one woman explained: “I decided to start a small farm. The hardest part is finding transportation to bring the produce to sell in the capital. Sometimes I walk from my village to another village just to look for a boat. Sometimes I can’t find one and then my produce gets wasted and rotten.” 

As sustenance farming has become less and less of a reliable way to make a living, those who reside in the rural outer islands have started to move to the country’s few urban hubs, leaving those unable to make the trip behind. Furthermore, Micronesia is in an area that is prone to natural disasters and is extremely vulnerable to the impacts of changing weather patterns and rising sea levels. In the case of a natural disaster, there is not infrastructure to ensure the safety of disabled peoples.

On June 11, 2009, the Micronesian government made the following statement regarding disability and poverty in Micronesia: “The FSM has approximately 10,000 people with some form of disability and the available programs and services for disabled persons are currently very limited. The number of disabled people in the FSM is increasing year after year and the limitation of available services suggests a moral and legal obligation to develop adequate programs to promote and protect their interest and wellbeing.”

Solutions

Although the situation with poverty and disability in Micronesia may seem bleak, there are many organizations and pieces of legislation that are continuing to help provide aid to this vulnerable demographic. One incredible organization to highlight is the Pohnpei Consumer Organization. With branches in all four Micronesian states, they work to support the disabled population and raise awareness about their struggles. One project that they took on was creating a “disaster tool-kit,” in order to provide villages with all of the resources necessary to support the disabled members of their community in the case of natural disaster. With hard work and support from foreign aid, it is more than possible to decrease the impacts of disability and poverty in Micronesia.

– Helena Birbrower

Helena is based in Davis, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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“I Still Had the Mind of a Child”: Ending Child Marriage in Zambia

Child Marriage in ZambiaAt 14, Doreen was forced to marry a man more than twice her age. Orphaned early, she saw marriage as a way to support her younger siblings. “I didn’t want to get married,” Doreen recalls. “I loved going to school. But I thought if I got married, I could help take care of my siblings.” Like many girls in Zambia, Doreen’s marriage meant the end of her education and the beginning of a life filled with responsibilities far beyond her years. “I should have been in school. I was too young. I still had the mind of a child,” she says. Her day-to-day life quickly shifted to household chores. “I spent most of my time sweeping, washing and doing dishes. I admired my friends going to school while I stayed home.”

Doreen’s story is not uncommon. In Zambia, nearly 29% of girls are married before they turn 18 and 5% before age 15. The impacts are widespread, especially in rural areas like the eastern and northern provinces, where traditions and economic pressures often lead families to marry off their daughters at a young age.

Why Child Marriage in Zambia Continues

Poverty is a major driving force behind Zambia’s high rate of child marriage. Indeed, around 60% of the population lives below the poverty line and for many families, marrying off their daughters can seem like a way to reduce financial strain. A bride price—money or goods paid to the girl’s family—can immediately relieve households struggling to get by.

In Doreen’s case, her grandmother worried about the future after taking on the responsibility of raising five grandchildren. She arranged the marriage, thinking it would secure Doreen’s future. “My grandmother feared she wouldn’t live long enough to care for us all,” Doreen explained.

Cultural practices also contribute. In many communities, marrying young girls is seen as a way to preserve family honor, prevent premarital sex or control a girl’s future.

The Impact on Girls’ Lives

For many girls, getting married means their education is over. Without access to school, they lose the opportunity to gain skills that could help them build a future independent of poverty. Doreen reflects on how her life might have been different: “If I had stayed in school, my life would have been different. I could have become a teacher, earned my own salary.”

Ending child marriage is crucial for reducing severe health risks, especially those associated with early pregnancy. Doreen, who became pregnant at 15, knows this all too well. “I was hurt when I found out I was pregnant. People were pointing at me: ‘That one is pregnant,’” she recalls. Her age caused complications during childbirth and doctors recommended surgery. “I was too young,” she explains.

Health complications from early pregnancies are common among child brides. Young mothers face higher risks during childbirth and are also more vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The emotional, physical and sexual abuse that often goes with child marriage compounds these challenges, leaving many girls trapped in a life of hardship.

Ending Child Marriage in Zambia: New Legislation

In its fight toward ending child marriage, Zambia passed the Marriage (Amendment) Act of 2023, setting 18 as the minimum marriage age without exceptions. Any marriage involving a child is now void from the start and cultural practices allowing child marriage are no longer recognized. Furthermore, the law also enforces strict penalties, with those involved in child marriages facing up to five years in prison. Under the Education Act, marrying off school-going children carries a minimum 15-year sentence.

The 2023 Amendment builds on Zambia’s earlier laws, including the Education Act of 2011, which banned marrying off school children and the Child Code Act of 2022, which criminalized child marriage. These laws aim to protect girls and align Zambia with international agreements on child rights.

What Comes Next

Zambia’s battle against ending child marriage is far from over. The success of the Amendment will depend on successfully enforcing the law alongside addressing the cultural and economic factors that sustain the practice. In communities where poverty and tradition drive child marriage, laws alone may not be enough to create lasting change.

Traditional leaders are vital in preventing child marriages. As respected figures, they can report cases, promote birth registration and support local authorities in enforcing laws. Schools and educators also have to raise awareness among students and parents about the dangers and legal protections around early marriage.

Health care providers are vital, too. By offering youth-friendly services and educating families on the health risks, they help reduce early marriages and support at-risk girls. Engaging men and boys is often overlooked. Involving them in discussions about gender equality and challenging norms can shift attitudes. When they advocate for girls’ education and rights, the cycle of child marriage has a better chance of being broken.

Final Note

Zambia’s new law marks a significant milestone toward ending child marriage. Yet, with nearly a third of girls marrying before 18, achieving lasting change will require ongoing education, community engagement and support for girls. Doreen’s experiences reflect those of many girls across the country, serving as a reminder of the work still needed. She says, “I wouldn’t want anyone else to go through what I did at 14.”

– Georgia O’Keeffe

Georgia is based in Wiltshire, UK and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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FGM in Somalia and The National Development Plan

FGM in SomaliaSomalia has one of the highest rates of female genital mutilation (FGM) in the world, with nearly 100% of women aged 15 to 49 having undergone the procedure. This practice is rooted in cultural, religious and social norms, perpetuating control over female sexuality and upholding gender inequality. Despite being illegal, female genital mutilation persists due to societal pressures, weak enforcement of existing laws and unstable governance. Traditional practitioners, often older women in the community, typically perform FGM, leading to severe health complications for the victims.

Reasons for Persistence

  • Cultural and Religious Beliefs: FGM is viewed as a cultural practice to mark the transition from girlhood to womanhood. The practice is also mistakenly linked to religious expectations and beliefs.
  • Social Pressure: There is a risk of ostracism if families do not conform to this practice held by groups. This process often aligns with practices such as child marriage. FGM is a way to preserve family honor and ensure daughters are “pure” and “virginal” women.
  • Limited Access to Education: There is a lack of awareness regarding the pain, danger and injustice of FGM.

The National Development Plan

The Ninth National Development Plan (NDP9) is a comprehensive governmental framework designed to guide Somalia toward sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction between 2020 and 2024. This plan addresses politics, improved security, economic growth and social development. Furthermore, gender equality and women’s empowerment are pivotal objectives of NDP9. A significant focus is placed on combating harmful practices like FGM.

NDP9 incorporates strategies to combat FGM through laws, public awareness campaigns and education programs targeting both men and women. This includes the Ifrah Foundation’s “Dear Daughter” campaign, which hopes to reduce FGM by promoting personal empowerment and asking parents to pledge that they won’t cut their daughters. The aim is that a three-pillar approach of education, advocacy and action will begin to lay sustainable foundations for FGM eradication.

Comparison with Kenya

With previously high rates of FGM, similar initiatives and legislation in Kenya have seen FGM drop to approximately 15% among women aged 15-49. Effective grassroots activism, education and support from nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have led to significant reductions in FGM prevalence, as well as the criminalization of those practicing. Organizations like the Kenyan anti-FGM Board and Amref Health Africa have been instrumental in these efforts. This comparison suggests that increased governmental stability and specific FGM groups can facilitate a quicker eradication of FGM in Somalia.

Activism, Advocacy and Advice

Activists like Shamsa Sharawe have played a crucial role in the fight against FGM in Somalia and Europe. By bringing the attention of international communities to the issue, Sharawe’s advocacy highlights the physical and psychological harm caused by FGM. Her efforts and those of various NGOs have been instrumental in pushing for more robust policies and community-based interventions. They display that this is not an issue of the past. FGM is a continual injustice and attack on female autonomy, dignity and freedoms.

Survivors of FGM, like Ifrah Ahmed (founder of “Dear Daughter“), have become vocal advocates for ending the practice. They emphasize the importance of education, community dialogue and international cooperation. Additionally, by sharing their stories, survivors help break down stereotypes and stigmas associated with female genital mutilation, advocating for survivor support and defending women’s dignity and integrity.

– Olivia Howard

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

Photo: Flickr

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Legislation Passed: Child Marriage in Sierra Leone is Banned

Child Marriage in Sierra LeoneOn July 2, 2024, President Julius Maada Bio signed the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act to end the widespread practice in Sierra Leone.

Law That Aims to Protect

In Sierra Leone, a milestone has been achieved in the country; the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act was recently signed into effect, eradicating all child marriages younger than the age of 18. This includes conspiracy, aiding and abetting a child to enter marriage; violators can expect strict penalties if found guilty, with punishments of up to 15 years in prison and approximately $4,000 fine.

Obligations on community and religious leaders will require them to take strong measures so they don’t officiate child marriages and no person is allowed to attend the ceremony involving a child. It will also prevent cohabitation with a child regardless of whether married or not, criminalizing both as offenses.

The new bill contributes to protecting women, girls and children from harmful practices, even employing marriage prohibition officers who will work within communities to advise and issue reports, ensuring the law is being followed.

The Scale of Child Marriage

According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), an estimated 800,000 child brides reside in Sierra Leone, with half having been married before the age of 15 years. Child marriage is common in the country, with 30% of girls aged 20 to 24 years old married before age 18 and 13% married before age 15.

The reasons for child marriage are complex and vary: poverty, education, gender inequality, religion and even inheritance are all factors related to this ongoing issue. Families with limited resources seek to find ways for their children to gain opportunities; by offering a bride in the form of a child, the motivation is not just economic, but also a custom and local practice.

Education, FGM and Risks

The effects of child marriage have been devasting, resulting in many disadvantages for women and girls throughout their lives. Girls are often less educated and unable to complete secondary school, which limits their employment opportunities. This makes them underrepresented in skilled and professional industries and digital literacy, such as the internet, cell phones and technology that can provide them access to more resources and information.

There is also the divisive practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) used to initiate girls into womanhood and prepare them for marriage. It’s a method of suppressing women’s and girls’ sexual urges and keeping them focused on the woman’s responsibilities and duties she will face within her home. According to the 2019 Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey, 83% of women and girls aged between 15 and 49 years have undergone FGM.

Final Remark

Additional concerns that must be addressed are fear of retaliation for having a family member imprisoned and increased poverty, which will prevent many from following the new law. Therefore, it will take much involvement from the community for this law to make a substantial impact. The benefits for women, girls and children are great for now. They can finish school, gain more skills and seek opportunities. Most of all, they can enjoy childhood without the pressures of being forced into child marriage.

– Tanita Love

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

Photo: Unsplash

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Transforming Lives in Rwanda’s Progressive Legislation

Rwanda's Progressive LegislationIn recent years, Rwanda’s enacted progressive legislation aimed at significantly improving living standards and reducing poverty. Central to these efforts are the 2023 National Strategy for Transformation (NST1) and the Economic Recovery Fund (ERF), both designed to accelerate economic growth and ensure sustainable development. Here are how these groundbreaking initiatives are not only transforming lives but also setting a powerful example for the rest of the continent.

Economic Rebound of Rwanda

The NST1 is a pivotal framework designed to boost Rwanda’s economic growth and sustainable development. Key initiatives under NST1 include promoting industrialization, creating jobs and enhancing agricultural productivity. These initiatives have significantly contributed to Rwanda’s economic progress, with the World Bank reporting a 7.6% gross domestic product (GDP) increase in the first three quarters of 2023 despite external challenges and inflation control measures.

Moreover, educational reforms have led to universal enrollment in primary schools and substantial improvements in secondary education attendance and completion. Completion rates have increased by 57% in students and if we count late completion, this number jumps to 71%. This multifaceted approach underscores the effectiveness of NST1 in driving Rwanda’s economic and social advancements.

Securing the Future in Rwanda

To secure its upward projection, Rwanda implemented the Economic Recovery Fund (ERF). The Rwandan government’s initiatives under the ERF, particularly its focus on supporting key sectors like tourism, have indeed shown significant results. The first phase of the ERF, which included substantial support for the tourism sector, helped many businesses survive the impact of COVID-19. This support, along with continued funding, allows for more jobs to be created; it is estimated that 1,328 additional jobs will arise from tourist-based activities per million invested. As ERF fulfilled its duties, the second phase of the fund launched $250 million to increase access to finance and to continue the economic recovery that the country still feels.

Protection for Everyday

In 2024, Rwanda introduced the Social Protection Transformation Project (SPTP), a new initiative aimed at enhancing the country’s social protection system. Funded by the World Bank and coordinated by the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) and the Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), the SPTP focuses on strengthening social safety net programs, supporting economic inclusion and improving delivery systems.

The project includes various components such as direct support, nutrition-sensitive programs, public works, early childhood development and skills development. It aims to ensure that vulnerable households have better access to human capital and economic opportunities, thereby improving their overall resilience and well-being.

The Role Model

When compared to other African nations, Rwanda’s approach to social and economic development stands out due to its innovative use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in governance and service delivery. Unlike many of its peers, Rwanda has integrated ICT into nearly all facets of public administration, which has streamlined processes and increased transparency. Initiatives such as the Irembo platform allow citizens to access a wide range of government services online, reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and fostering greater civic engagement.

This digital transformation is a key reason why Rwanda’s model is considered progressive and effective; it not only improves service delivery but also supports data-driven decision-making and policy implementation. Additionally, Rwanda’s focused and comprehensive strategies, like the NST1 and the ERF, have led to measurable successes in poverty reduction and economic growth, further distinguishing its approach from other nations on the continent.

Rwanda’s innovative and effective strategies position it as a potential model for other nations striving for sustainable development and poverty reduction. The country’s success underscores the critical role of community resilience and Rwanda’s progressive legislation in driving economic and social progress. By learning from Rwanda’s experience, other nations can adopt similar approaches to foster inclusive growth and enhance the well-being of their citizens.

– Demi Olin

Demi is based in Huntington, WV, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Recent Poverty Reduction in Hawaii

Poverty Reduction in HawaiiRecent initiatives in Hawaii have improved poverty reduction through legislative measures and community-driven programs. These efforts are not only aimed at providing immediate relief but also focus on sustainable solutions to assist vulnerable populations across the state.

The Situation

According to the United States (U.S.) Census Bureau, 10.2% of Hawaii residents live below the poverty line. This score is higher than the U.S. national average of 11.5% as of 2022. Even as Hawaii grapples with poverty, a number of local initiatives are offering hope for meaningful progress in reducing hardship.

Governmental Initiatives

One of the most important legislative actions contributing to poverty reduction is the proposed Farm Bill. This legislation aims to strengthen local agriculture while simultaneously combating hunger. By supporting local farmers and promoting healthy farming practices, the Farm Bill seeks to lower food costs and increase food security for people nationwide, including Hawaii’s residents. The Farm Bill’s approach is crucial in a state that is heavily reliant on imported goods and where high living costs disproportionately affect low-income families. Implementing the Farm Bill involves incentivizing local production through grants, reducing dependency on external food sources and stimulating economic growth.

Governor Josh Green’s administration has also taken proactive steps to address homelessness, a critical aspect of poverty in Hawaii (41% in 2022). The Governor’s office highlighted the Hoʻokahi Leo Kauhale initiative on its official website, focusing on providing affordable housing for at least 50 people experiencing homelessness. This program incorporates housing with comprehensive support services driven to meet the needs of homeless individuals and families. By providing housing along with health care access, employment resources and social services, Hoʻokahi Leo Kauhale aims to reduce homelessness and help residents rebuild their lives.

The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) also plays a pivotal role in Hawaii’s poverty reduction efforts. DBEDT’s goal is to reach a globally competitive economy for Hawaii. The department has led initiatives to increase the state’s economic growth and job creation. DBEDT’s efforts contribute to reducing unemployment rates and promoting financial stability among Hawaii’s residents.

Nongovernmental Initiatives

Hawaii has also made strides in addressing local poverty apart from governmental efforts. Child & Family Service (CFS), a Hawaii-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering healthy child development, has also been working to break generational poverty throughout the state. In 2016, the organization launched a pilot program called Transition to Success (TTS). The program’s mission is to empower and guide impoverished families to success via mentorship, coaching and other resources. About 986 participants of TTS reported positive changes regarding self-sufficiency.

What This Means for the Nation

Recent efforts towards poverty reduction in Hawaii show a combination of legislative innovation, community engagement and strategic economic development. Working between government agencies and nonprofit organizations will be crucial in building upon these achievements and addressing common challenges. By continuing to evolve upon successful strategies, Hawaii can further solidify its commitment to poverty alleviation and economic empowerment, setting an example for resilience and stability nationwide.

– Christian Core

Christian is based in Princeville, HI, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

Zambia’s Creative Cures to Combat Its Housing Crisis

Housing CrisisGlobally recognized as having one of the highest levels of poverty and inequality, Zambia has a long journey ahead to overcome this poverty, which was further exacerbated following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, arguably the greatest factor prolonging the struggle against poverty is its housing crisis. A shortage of quality and available housing leads to social unrest, the spread of diseases, medical challenges, water insecurity and limited employment opportunities. Therefore, the Zambian government has identified improved housing as one of its top priorities. It is developing creative cures to combat its housing crisis.

Why the Housing Crisis Arose

  1. Social factors: Zambia is not only experiencing a rapidly growing population, approximately 19.6 million as of 2021, but it is also projected to double in the next 25 years. It stands out as “one of the world’s youngest countries in terms of median age.” A population largely of working-age people results in an increased demand for jobs, support and housing at a rate that the current development cannot match.

  2. Rapid economic development: Zambia has become rapidly urbanized over the last few decades, perpetuating rising incomes and employment opportunities. Although this is a hugely positive step forward in the fight against poverty and insufficient economic and industrial operations, the rate with which these changes have come about has surpassed developments in infrastructure. This has exacerbated the housing deficit, at 1.5 million homes in 2023, but is projected to increase to three million by 2030. As a result, 70% of Zambia’s urbanites live in slums, necessitating creative cures to combat the housing crisis.

  3. Existing poverty: Although recent urbanization and industrial development have elevated the economic status of many Zambians, such progression has yet to penetrate rural populations. The main reasons for this are “while the agricultural sector is projected to grow, it hardly accounts for population growth and the sector is subject to high volatility.”

    The economic situation remains unstable and unpredictable. “More than 61% (2015) of Zambia’s 19.6 million people earn less than the international poverty line of $2.15 per day.” This means that although there are not enough houses to be purchased by those who have benefitted from the recent economic prosperity, a significant portion of the population still faces financial constraints preventing them from affording any available developed housing.
  1. Legislation: Apart from an insufficient number of houses, there are also issues with legislation around property ownership. The process of registering land takes an average of one year, leaving people without homes yet already engaged in the economic process of purchasing land. Current legislation fails to guarantee access to land, housing finance and security of tenure, as well as materials and skilled labor workforces. Challenges extend beyond legally securing the right to build or own a property, encompassing hurdles in the physical processes of construction and maintenance.

Steps Taken To Overcome the Housing Crisis

Although the housing crisis in Zambia constitutes a serious challenge, many methods are being researched and introduced. Zambia’s creative cures to combat the housing crisis strive to balance the housing deficit and address those areas of the population for whom property ownership remains economically inviable.

  1. Innovative construction methods: The Zambian government seeks to develop more economically and environmentally friendly construction materials as one of its creative cures to combat the housing crisis. Through public-private partnerships and with financial support from the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development (MIHUD), a skilled labor force is being trained to “develop stabilized soil bricks,” offering a “low-cost and sturdy material for constructing quality houses.”

  2. Technology: The Land Survey Amendment Act of 2021 has promoted the “digitization of records to speed the process of title deeds,” so far addressing “approximately 300,000 records.”

  3. Financial support: For those with a monthly income of more than ZMW6,600 ($398), “Zambia Home Loans” offers supplementary financing for construction and land purchases. There are also more affordable schemes for those with less economic security. “Rent-to-own programs” provide more short-term housing opportunities, allowing renters to gain employment and economic security from a stable home. Alongside financial aid to potential renters and buyers, the Zambian government is providing funding for the construction of properties, signing agreements with “unions and banks to construct more than 40,000 units within the next decade,” constituting a “$1.4 billion investment for programs across the country.”

  4. Nonprofit support: The MIHUD works alongside private players to deliver “low-cost units for households residing in informal settlements.” Private partners include The Horizon Properties and Habitat for Humanity Zambia. Habitat for Humanity targets the nation’s most vulnerable groups. As a humanitarian organization, it has a plethora of programs in place to target areas such as water and sanitation needs as well. By actively participating in property construction and facilitating interest-free mortgages (micro-loans), the organization aims to promote housing security at all stages of the home-owning process.

Conclusion

Although it is undeniable that the housing crisis in Zambia is a serious challenge in the battle against poverty, the Zambian government and many other internal and external organizations have made it their mission to devise creative cures to combat the issue.

– Chloe Thomas
Photo: Flickr

The New Reform Benefiting Mental Health in Panama 

Mental Health in Panama The COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health in Panama and quality of life in 2020. There has been a global spike in psychiatric illnesses and overall quality of life since the pandemic. This event has increased the number of laws worldwide for health care and improved living, especially for citizens with no health care, public health care or, in some places, universal health care.

Mental health in Panama took a toll after COVID-19 and the 2020 pandemic; according to a poll of 480 adults living in Panama, 65.2% agreed the pandemic affected them and 62.9% agreed that mental health declined. In the same poll, 80.8% of participants were women and 37.3% checked off as unemployed. In 2021, the OECD published that the poverty rate jumped 3% in 2020 from 14.6% to 17.8%, and extreme poverty dropped 0.2%.

A Law for the People

The new law 364 in Panama from Feb. 4, 2023, established the human right to mental health assistance nationally. This legislation means Panama recognizes mental health as a human right for every person, with no discrimination against medical backgrounds or income. In this new law, there are 15 articles.

According to Article 1, “insurance companies may not discriminate against people who have mental health conditions when they are contracting a life or health insurance policy.” Article 2 states that “Private health centers providing care for people with mental, behavioral or neurodevelopment disorders may not refuse medical/psychological assistance to a person experiencing a mental health crisis.”

These two articles within the legislation could prove vital in the goals to provide national mental health assistance. Since public health care systems do not cover mental health in Panama, many would have needed private health care even to get coverage to attend a facility. Though citizens still do not get coverage through the new law, it allows private facilities in Panama to treat residents with little to no health care coverage. It also allows citizens with mental health disorders or other medical problems to acquire insurance more easily.

The Right Mindset

The legislation passed aims to promote awareness of mental health in Panama and encourage the public to seek help. A couple of essential objectives; “to guarantee access to quality services for mental health care services, reduce suicide rates and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health,” according to Icaza, González-Ruiz & Alemán. These objectives are essential to the goals set out in this new law. Panama also plans to create an educational program for all schools, private or public. That promotes mental well-being, prevention of mental decline, and signs to be aware of when dealing with someone who has a mental health condition.

Determination to Do Good

Panama rose, determined to do good for the citizens. When this legislation passed in February 2023, the executive branch had six months to regulate it and there has been no report of it since. The plan is to battle mental health in Panama and insurance issues for the citizens so everyone, regardless of income or history, has an equal chance of acquiring better health.

– Liam E. McGrenaghan
Photo: Unsplash

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Addressing the Deaths of Native American Women

Native American WomenThe 2017 film, Wind River, based on actual events, riveted the public with its reported death rate of Native American women on American reservations. Writer-producer Taylor Sheridan aimed to raise awareness of the overlooked death rate and has succesfully done so since.

Violence Against Indigenous Women

Where poverty is the greatest, indigenous women experience domestic violence rates 10 times higher than the national average for all races. In addition, 84% of Native American women experience violence in their lifetimes or one in three each year. The perpetrators are most often non-Native men outside the jurisdiction of tribal law enforcement.

Murdered indigenous women numbers rose to 500 in 2018, which is a low figure compared to the actual number of missing persons on reservations. Women have silently died and gone missing, underreported, for years. This is due to the discordance that exists between tribal, federal and local law enforcement. However, changes are being made ever since the 1978 ruling of Oliphant v. Suquamish, where it was ruled that Indian courts have no criminal jurisdiction over non-natives. In November of 2019, President Trump signed an executive order to investigate the matter of unsolved cases of missing or murdered Native Americans.

Legislatively Addressing the Issue

Several major changes have since been underway. For example, the Not Invisible Act of 2020 will increase national focus on violent crime against indigenous people and intergovernmental coordination on the high death rate of Native American women. This bill began in 2019 as the Not Invisible Act of 2019; the first bipartisan bill in history to be introduced by four tribal representatives: Deb Haaland, Tom Cole, Sharice Davids and Markwayne Mullin.

To complement the Not Invisible Act, Savanna’s Act became public law in October 2020. Named after Savanna LaFontaine-Greywind, a murdered young indigenous woman whose fetus was cut from her womb, Savanna’s Act will ensure the Justice Department reports statistics on all missing/murdered native women and reform law enforcement. In addition, the National Institute of Justice has created the National Baseline Study which is a study on the health, wellbeing and safety of Native American women, to also provide more accurate data on femicide.

Safe Women, Strong Nations

In addition, the Safe Women, Strong Nations project partners with native nations to combat abductions and murder. The project provides legal advice to the tribes in restoring authority and holding perpetrators responsible. The project works to raise awareness to gain federal action to eliminate the violence against native women.

Poverty makes it easier for native women to be overlooked. One in three Native Americans suffer from poverty, living off on average $23,000 a year. “Poverty is both the cause and the consequence of all the ills visited upon Native Americans.” It is common knowledge that poverty provides leeway for criminality, and with Native American reservations being economically disadvantaged, this is no exception. Addressing systemic poverty instead of turning a blind eye will help lower the death rate of native women. The reservations only need opportunity and U.S.  juridical attention. It is hopeful to see that the United States’ legislative representatives are addressing violence against minority groups but more work needs to be done to protect the well-being of Native American women.

– Shelby Gruber
Photo: Flickr

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Ending Female Genital Mutilation in Sudan

Female Genital Mutilation in SudanAlthough six African states issued legislation to prohibit female genital mutilation, the north African state of Sudan was lagging behind in these efforts. Female genital mutilation ( FGM) was illegal in some Sudanese states but the bans were widely ignored. Under the leadership of Omar al-Bashir, parliament rejected recommendations to ban the practice.

Female Genital Mutilation

FGM is defined as procedures that deliberately alter or cause injury to female genital organs. It is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and adolescence and occasionally performed on adult women. These procedures are nonmedical and provide no health benefits, only harm to the female. It involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, therefore, it interferes with the natural functions of the female body.

The reasons behind FGM vary between regions due to a mix of sociocultural factors. The procedure is routinely executed by a midwife without anesthesia. There are four types of FGM. Type one is the partial or total removal of the clitoris. Type two is the removal of the clitoris and inner labia. Type three is the removal of all the external genitalia or narrowing of the vaginal opening. Type four is any other type of damage to the female genitalia, such as burning, scraping or piercing.

Females experience either short-term or long-term effects. The short-term effects include severe pain, excessive bleeding (hemorrhage), genital tissue swelling, fever, infections, wound healing issues. The more dangerous and life-altering long-term effects include urinary problems, menstrual problems, increased risk of childbirth complications, the need for later surgeries or psychological problems.

According to UNICEF, 87% of Sudanese women aged between 14 and 49 have undergone a form of FGM. FGM is also more prevalent among the poorest women.

Actions to End Female Genital Mutilation

In 2008, the National Council of Child Welfare and UNICEF joined together to launch the Saleema Initiative, which focused on abandoning FGM at a community level.  The initiative educated women about the health risks and encouraged females to say no to the procedure.

Additionally, the United Nations General Assembly took action in 2012 by calling on the international community to enhance efforts to end FGM. In 2015, the global community agreed to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include a target under Goal 5 to eliminate all harmful practices, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation by 2030.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is addressing the issue by implementing guidelines, tools, training and policy to allow healthcare providers the opportunity to offer medical care and counseling to females suffering the effects of FGM.  The WHO also aims at generating knowledge to encourage the abandonment of the FGM procedures. One final measure by the WHO is increased advocacy through publications and tools for policymakers.

Criminalizing Female Genital Mutilation in Sudan

In May 2020, the Sudanese Government criminalized FGM and made it punishable by up to three years in prison. But, experts remain concerned that a law is not sufficient in ending the practice due to religious and cultural ties to the procedure.

The sociocultural and religious ties surrounding female genital mutilation in Sudan complicate attempts to end the practice. Criminalizing FGM in Sudan may not be enough to end the practice. The National Council of Child Welfare, UNICEF, the United Nations General Assembly and the WHO are taking major steps to eliminate FGM or assist those already affected by the practice.

– Rachel Durling
Photo: Flickr