Tag Archive for: Legislation

Posts

,

The Monsoon’s Aftermath: Structural Reforms in Bangladesh

Structural Reforms in BangladeshThe year 2024 was a monumental time for Bangladesh as protests rocked the nation for three months, culminating in the previous government being forced to resign. Immediately, the interim government was tasked with implementing various structural reforms in order to address the numerous systemic problems facing the average citizen in Bangladesh, including continued vulnerabilities within the financial sector, rising inflation and decreased GDP growth.

Transitional Power

Even before the Monsoon Revolution, Bangladesh was experiencing momentum in economic growth. Implementing trade reforms and export diversification helped to sustain growth as inflationary pressure eased and external conditions improved.

However, that was off the back of 15 years of consolidated power, weakening civilian institutions and using force to suppress critics and opposition members of the government.

Now that the regime had been ousted and the new interim government put in its place, it was immediately faced with the structural pressures a less-than-peaceful transition of power brings about.

The new prime minister laid out a roadmap centered on reform of the financial sector and economic stabilization. Policies such as restoring the independence of the Bangladesh Bank, deregulating the financial market and accelerating reforms to improve revenue mobilization were implemented. These reforms are intended to ensure a gradual ease in doing business in the country and macroeconomic stabilization.

The new ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party has also made other reforms part of its platform, including combating corruption with a stated zero-tolerance policy. The party has addressed the disparity between the rich and poor, looking to create an Economic Reform Commission to address the gap through the “equitable distribution of growth benefits, upholding equality, human dignity, and social justice.” The party also plans to bring fair wages for the working class and reform labor laws to create better working environments.

Looking Ahead

Since the July Uprising, Bangladesh has been in a state of transition across its economy, politics and standard of living. With structural reforms being passed and plans laid out to address the systemic issues in Bangladesh, the effectiveness of the new government’s approach will become clearer over time.

– Alexander Petrov

Alexander is based in Boston, MA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

3 Legislative Moves & Global Poverty in 2026

Global Poverty in 2026Poverty has emerged as one of the most challenging human rights issues and though it is improving in many regions, areas such as sub-Saharan Africa have seen declines. While it is traditionally believed that poverty naturally eases as a nation’s economy and GDP increase, this is not always the case. While an expanding economy does alleviate poverty, many other factors persist, such as education and discrimination. 

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), countries can adopt numerous legislative measures to address poverty, including land tenure rights, social protection systems and rural employment. Therefore, it is not only necessary for a government to expand markets and support investment, but also to pass legislation specifically aimed at improving the conditions that allow poverty to arise. Here is what some countries around the world are doing to legislate poverty eradication:

$16 Billion Rural Aid in Vietnam

Vietnam is creating legislation to lower global poverty in 2026. On December 11, 2025, the National Assembly passed a resolution to provide unprecedented funds for rural development until 2030. The move follows years of efforts since 2021, which by 2025 have already reduced the number of needy and near-poor households by 52.49%. In addition, the government built new housing in areas with ethnic minority populations and brought communes up to environmental safety standards.

The new resolution intends to follow in the successful footsteps of what came before. Notably, the program aims to reduce gender inequality, which is essential to improving the lives of impoverished individuals. According to the National Library of Medicine, there is a link between poverty and equity and therefore, addressing gender discrimination and inequality goes a long way.

Basic Income Grants in South Africa

In South Africa, the two richest individuals hold as much wealth as 50% of the population and the country has the highest Gini coefficient, a measure of social inequality, among all countries. This makes poverty a central issue that the government must confront. One political topic that has gained momentum recently is the implementation of basic income grants (BIGs).

Countries such as Namibia and India have introduced similar programs and shown increases in economic activity, nutrition levels, school attendance and even independence for certain groups, such as women. During COVID-19, South Africa carried out a BIG program and the results were effective. South Africa’s Department of Social Development (DSD) even reported a decrease in poverty at the Food Poverty Line, the lowest income possible to satisfy one’s nutritional needs. 

The DSD has ordered a report on the possibility of such a program in South Africa and concluded that its COVID-19 policy should be continued and perhaps even the workup to a full-scale BIG program. While critics worry that the program will crowd out other spending or create an unsustainable fiscal burden, a future program could transform the fight against poverty.

Bangladesh’s Family Card

Recently, Bangladesh launched a new program to transform welfare services. Launched on March 10, 2026, the program shifts the focus from individual to household, given that poverty is experienced “collectively.” Accordingly, each household will have one card issued in the name of the female head. 

The government has set ambitious goals, hoping to provide every citizen with a card by 2030. However, not everyone qualifies. Some example criteria include belonging to a marginalized group or being in a vulnerable household. This ensures that not just anybody receives these government benefits, only those who truly need them. 

Overall Picture

Governments around the world are discovering that they can’t just let market forces determine the outcome of poverty in their countries; they must enact specific legislation to address it. As Joseph Stiglitz noted: “Much of the inequality that exists today is a result of government policy.” This is exactly what Vietnam, South Africa and Bangladesh are doing, pushing for policies that help those who need it most, a sign that the world is beginning to confront global poverty in 2026.

– Ben Anderson

Ben is based in Madrid, Spain and focuses on Business and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Child Marriage in El Salvador

Child Marriage in El SalvadorChild marriage continues to plague young girls across El Salvador every year, despite becoming illegal nearly a decade ago. While the rate of child marriage has declined since the ban, factors such as gender inequality, poverty and teen pregnancy play a big role in its concealed continuation.

Current Prevalence and Driving Factors

On August 16, 2017, El Salvador’s Family Code underwent a reformation. The updated Family Code set the legal age of marriage to 18 for women and men, opposed to its previous ruling, which stated that girls could marry regardless of age if they were pregnant or had a child. Following the reformation, according to the Child Marriage Data portal, the prevalence of child marriage dropped from 25% in 2006 to 19.7% in 2021.

However, as of 2025, 199.7 thousand girls now aged 20-24 were married by 15 and 720.3 thousand within the same age range were married by 18. The prevalence is higher in rural areas (26.6%) than in urban areas (16.6%) and it might be due to factors such as poverty and educational opportunity. According to Girls Not Brides, 12% of women living in El Salvador’s most impoverished households and 52% of women with little to no education were married or in a union as children.

In contrast, the numbers are far lower for those in urban, more affluent and educated groups: only 2% of women from wealthy households and 3% of women who completed university were married or in a union as children. Yet, both before and after the Family Code’s reformation, young girls also married young as a form of escape from gender-based violence, hard home lives or teen pregnancy. Following cases of sexual violence, young women would marry their rapist to avoid repercussions involving money or the police. Other young women would marry following a teen pregnancy to avoid straying from societal norms.

Government Action

On August 16, 2017, Salvadoran lawmakers voted to make child marriage illegal, as the previous Family Code acted as a loophole for sexual perpetrators. According to UNICEF and other sources, the 1993 code allowed sexual perpetrators to evade the penal system by marrying their victims. As a result, the cycle of impunity continued. The 2017 reform marked a significant shift in both Salvadoran law and society, advancing protections for children and young adults and signaling a stronger commitment to their rights.

Another Step Forward

Young Salvadoran girls now have the freedom of choice due to the ban on child marriage. However, legal change does not immediately get rid of societal issues. Providing education and economic relief to underprivileged citizens will be another step toward a better country for all and will reduce child marriage in El Salvador.

– Keyly Rios

Keyly is based in Dallas, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty Through Bipartisan Action

5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty Through Bipartisan Action As the United States (U.S.) political spotlight beams elsewhere, a bipartisan group of lawmakers is quietly advancing global poverty relief through appropriations, legislation and advocacy that deliver transformative impact abroad. Sen. Chris Coons (D-D.E.), Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-T.X.), Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-P.A.) and Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) work across the aisle to sustain investment in global health, food aid and gender equity. Their efforts underscore how U.S. foreign engagement, especially lawmakers supporting global poverty, can reflect both humanitarian values and national interest.

5 Lawmakers Supporting Global Poverty

  1. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.): Champion for Gender Equity. Since 2023, Shaheen has served as Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She co-sponsored the Global HER Act to permanently abolish the Global Gag Rule and reinstate financing for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA). Additionally, in July 2025, Shaheen negotiated with Senators Risch and the administration to secure the release of $75 million in foreign aid, $50 million allocated for Haiti and $25 million for Nigeria, targeted at food and medical help. On April 2, 2025, she convened a Senate Foreign Relations roundtable to examine the ramifications of assistance reductions. She underscored that the cessation of mother and child health programs would undermine advancements in vaccinations, HIV prevention, malaria management, neonatal care and water, sanitation and that USAID’s emergency response framework and significant disease-prevention initiatives were jeopardized.
  2. Sen. Chris Coons (D-D.E.): The Power Player in Foreign Aid. Over the years, Coons has emphasized the importance of critical foreign assistance portfolios, including United States Agency for International Development (USAID), President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Global Fund. In early 2025, he proposed a Senate resolution reiterating the strategic role of USAID in national security. On the Senate floor after the 2025 executive freeze of USAID, he cautioned: “Our biggest global competitor…is delighted that we’ve handed them an opportunity to say to communities around the world that we are not a reliable partner.” Coons co-sponsored the Global Child Thrive Act with bipartisan colleagues, demonstrating his enduring commitment to early childhood development internationally. He observed: “With nearly 250 million children in low and middle income countries suffering from poor development…this bill will improve efforts by the U.S. to advance early childhood development policies across the world.”
  3. Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-T.X.): Innovating Aid, Prioritizing Refugees. Castro, a member of the House Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees, is a vocal proponent of refugee initiatives and humanitarian innovation. He co-sponsored the Fostering Innovation in Global Development Act, asserting that it reinstates USAID as a preeminent leader in global development via the promotion of evidence-based programs. He also joined Coons and Fitzpatrick in championing the Global Child Thrive Act, declaring: “To help all kids succeed…it’s never been more important that we show that same commitment on a global scale.” Castro has emphasized refugee displacement and human rights, advocating for augmented humanitarian assistance in situations impacting the Rohingya and Venezuelan communities. In a 2017 House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing, Rep. Castro fervently addressed the situation of the Rohingya, emphasizing the humanitarian crisis and the U.S. relief response. Specifically, he noted: “This is an incredible time… in Southeast Asia, the Rohingya have been dispossessed.” Rep. Castro emphasized that the U.S. must do its share to alleviate the severe humanitarian situation that Venezuelans confront at home as they continue to escape tyranny and instability when he co-introduced the AFFECT Human Rights in Venezuela Act in 2022. This act aimed to guarantee that humanitarian assistance was sent directly to Venezuelan migrants and refugees, illustrating Castro’s commitment to aiding displaced individuals.
  4. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.): Conservative Bridge-builder on Aid. Graham, a steadfast advocate for international health financing, has justified initiatives such as the Global Fund and PEPFAR based on national security considerations. He referred to foreign aid as “national security insurance” and endorsed letters supporting PEPFAR and USAID for 2024–25. Even amid partisan debates, Graham helped preserve nearly $5.15 billion in PEPFAR funding for fiscal year 2025, resisting efforts that would have weakened the global HIV/AIDS response.
  5. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-P.A.): Health & Food Security Advocate. Rep. Fitzpatrick has consistently prioritized nutrition and health in foreign aid. As a House Foreign Affairs Committee member, he co-sponsored the Global Child Thrive Act and helped pass it into law. In August 2023, Rep. Fitzpatrick, along with Representatives Blumenauer and Krishnamoorthi, urged the Biden administration to enhance emergency international food assistance, particularly Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), to address escalating world famine. He stated: “Food insecurity affects hundreds of millions of individuals and families worldwide… Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) is proven to save the lives of children lacking access to nutrition.” As one of the most active lawmakers supporting global poverty in the House, Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan cooperation reflects a pragmatic approach to international aid.

Looking Ahead

In turbulent policy times, Sen. Coons, Rep. Castro, Sen. Graham, Rep. Fitzpatrick and Sen. Shaheen form a bipartisan group focused on advancing global poverty relief. Their actions demonstrate that addressing global poverty involves not only compassion, but also policy, stability and international engagement. Through appropriations debates, legislation and continued advocacy, these lawmakers support programs that assist vulnerable communities while aligning with U.S. strategic interests and reinforcing the country’s role in global development.

– Ray Bechara

Ray is based in Glasgow, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Combating Poverty in Mexico

Combating Poverty in Mexico Mexico has seen a decline in poverty in recent years. At its peak, the rate reached 43.2% in 2016 but fell to 36.3% by 2022. These signs of progress show that the country is tackling poverty in a positive way. Yet, one problem is that the population living in extreme poverty has gone up in recent years, with additional factors like access to health care and education also rising. Many organizations have stepped up to address this issue, helping families in rural areas of Mexico gain access to clean water, education and health care.

Policies and Governmental Strategies

Recent efforts to combat poverty in Mexico focus on inclusive and sustainable growth, according to the World Bank. Its analysis shows several areas for improvement in long-term poverty reduction. The first is female employment. Increasing the employment rate for women in the workforce contributes to economic development for the country.

Rural development is also a key factor in combating poverty. Improving rural infrastructure, education and health care services is essential to address regional disparities. Additionally, social protection is another element the government can tackle to help improve the situation. Strengthening benefits with worker protections can make economic growth more inclusive. As the World Bank notes, “social assistance reforms can redesign some programs to increase their progressivity and sufficiency,” enhancing effectiveness in combating poverty.

An overlooked aspect of why poverty is so complex in Mexico is the major climate events across the country. According to the World Bank, about 33% of poverty in Mexico is correlated with severe weather events. Hurricanes, droughts and floods affect those living in vulnerable conditions, further worsening their situations. Investing in more resilient infrastructure, such as durable housing and clean water systems, is a priority.

Organizations Addressing Poverty in Mexico

Several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are working to combat poverty in Mexico through multiple projects and initiatives. Esperanza Contigo focuses on children living in poverty, more specifically in rural areas. According to a report by the organization, more than 20 million children in Mexico live below the poverty line. This is due to reasons such as the minimum wage for a worker in Mexico being about $8.50 a day and rural schools being under-resourced, both of which fuel the cycle of poverty in the country.

Esperanza Contigo works to raise awareness, provide resources and advocate for change to improve the lives of children living in poverty. The organization has seen results in its work throughout Mexico, including helping abandoned children in the city of Tijuana. There, it provides foster care and offers shelter, education and health care programs. The organization states that “the best way to tackle child poverty is to be prepared.” 

CHOICE Humanitarian carries out locally led projects that address poverty in Mexico, mainly in rural areas. Its work includes increasing livestock and promoting agricultural sustainability. The organization helps families build stable food sources and income through efforts such as constructing wells and water filters. By doing so, CHOICE Humanitarian teaches communities the skills needed to continue these practices on their own. The organization’s activities support economic development, with the goal of combating poverty in this way.

In its 2024 annual report, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) outlined efforts to improve child nutrition, access to early childhood education and social inclusion. In cooperation with the Mexican government, UNICEF and the legislative branch are working to integrate child-centered initiatives into national planning. The organization has already reported progress in key areas such as nutrition, well-being and inclusion. 

Looking Ahead

Combating poverty in Mexico remains a challenge. It is not just one aspect that must be addressed, but multiple dimensions of poverty at the same time. This complexity has drawn many organizations to take part in tackling the problem. With projects underway to support people in need and with cooperation from the national government, Mexico is laying the groundwork for progress in combating poverty.

– Pablo Roque

Pablo is based in McAllen, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

ILO’s Decent Work Agenda Shaping Minimum Wage Policies

ILO’s Decent Work AgendaThe International Labor Organization (ILO) plays an important role in tackling global poverty. Through conventions, partnerships and country-specific programs, the ILO has helped shape labor laws and wage systems that improve the lives of millions of workers. A key framework of its efforts is the ILO Convention No. 131, also known as the Minimum Wage Fixing Convention, adopted in 1970 to encourage states to establish minimum wage systems.

Additionally, the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda, launched in 1999, aims to promote rights at work, fair remuneration and equal opportunity regardless of gender. Under this agenda, the ILO has supported initiatives in countries such as Namibia, Indonesia and Vietnam for progress in wage reform and labor protection.

Namibia

Although Article 95 of the Namibian constitution sets out the principle of fair remuneration, this is ineffective in practice. Many workers, particularly women, still struggle to access fair pay and efforts to increase wages have often just led to increased job losses. In response, the Namibian government, supported by the ILO, initiated the drafting of new labor legislation to set up a new minimum wage system.

A National Wages Commission was first established to hold public hearings nationwide to incorporate feedback from workers and employers. Following this, the ILO gave Namibia a recommendation based on its proposal to gradually increase the minimum wage to give industries time to adjust.

From January 2025, Namibia implemented the new policy, which sets the national minimum wage as N$12 ($0.68) per hour. Incorporating the ILO’s recommendations, this rate will gradually increase to N$15 ($0.85) per hour in 2026. Furthremore, N$18 ($1.02) per hour in 2027. The new policy also addresses the gender pay gap. Women in Namibia make up 40% of the workforce but represent more than half of those earning below the minimum wage. This includes raising wages in female-dominated sectors and the ILO’s continued support in monitoring compliance.

Indonesia

Indonesia has faced ongoing challenges in enforcing the minimum wage, leading to other issues such as job insecurity and poverty. Hence, the nation launched the Better Work Indonesia initiative with the support of the ILO and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to improve compliance with regulations regarding wages and working conditions.

At the national level, the mission provides training to wage council members. It conducts assessments to understand the impact of wage structures. It has also helped develop more effective minimum wage monitoring systems for better compliance. At the workplace level, the initiative offers compliance advisory services, on-site training and independent assessments to ensure wage regulations are followed.

These efforts protect workers and put Indonesian industries in a more competitive position in the global market, where ethical labor practices are increasingly valued.

Vietnam

Vietnam has also made notable progress under the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda. During the first phase of the Decent Work Country Program, Vietnam reformed its labor code with the ILO’s support. It has increased the national minimum wage since then. However, this progress has slowed recently, as almost 12% of workers earn below the minimum wage.

In response, the Decent Work Country Program Vietnam 2022-26 was launched in cooperation between Vietnamese workers, employers, the government and the ILO. The program is now in its fourth phase. It focuses on social policies for strengthened rule of law, enhanced governance and responsive institutions. In particular, it aims to achieve a gender-responsive economic transformation for all workers to benefit from inclusive, high-quality social services.

Minimum wage in Vietnam is also regularly reviewed with the support of the ILO. For instance, the Setting Adequate Wages (SAW) project helps determine appropriate wage levels. It achieves this by conducting independent wage assessments, publishing wage reports and identifying relevant factors such as socioeconomic factors, inflation and family situations. Based on this information, wages are negotiated to establish a fair rate reflecting the real living cost.

Final Remarks

Namibia, Indonesia and Vietnam show how the ILO’s Decent Work Agenda can shape fair minimum wage policies. These policies help fight poverty and raise workers’ living standards. Today’s consumers increasingly demand ethical and sustainable industries. As a result, fair labor practices and minimum wage compliance are more important than ever. They boost global competitiveness and fuel long-term economic growth.

– Lucy Cho

Lucy is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

The Fight Against the Gender Wage Gap in Belarus

Gender Wage Gap in BelarusThe gender wage gap has been a persistent problem across nearly all professional sectors since the integration of women into the workforce. Unfortunately, this issue remains prevalent in many workplaces today, notably in orthodox societies with traditional views on gender roles, such as Belarus, where the unadjusted gender wage gap favors men by 26.8%.

In Belarusian society, women are often encouraged to pursue lower-risk jobs with standard working conditions and flexible hours, as they dedicate on average 19.2% of their time to unpaid domestic and care work, such as raising children. In contrast, their male counterparts have the freedom to choose professions with longer hours and higher remuneration as they spend only 9.5% of their time on these tasks. As a result of these lower wages and high familial expectations, female workers are more at risk of falling into poverty than male workers. 

Despite ranking at #55 out of 146 countries in the World Economic Forum 2024 Global Gender Gap Index, Belarus is taking significant steps through legislation and internationally backed initiatives to climb the ladder and end discriminatory practices against women in the workplace. These are two key ways that Belarus is fighting against the gender wage gap.

International Aid Efforts

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is an international organization focused on supporting efforts for social and economic progress worldwide, currently working to improve women’s working conditions in Belarus. As a result of a partnership with UNICEF and the National Statistical Committee, the UNDP is now able to collect sex-disaggregated data, enabling it to find national solutions and track their progress in combating the gender wage gap. 

Progressive Legislation

In conjunction with these social efforts, Belarus has recently passed multiple pieces of legislation that are already producing positive results. 

In 2017, the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Belarus adopted the National Plan for Gender Equality. With the goal of developing a more gendered approach to public policy to level the professional playing field and empower women to hold more managerial positions, the action plan has been largely successful since its implementation. Not only do women possess more upper management positions than before, but they also make up 70% of the 69,000 cultural workers in Belarus as they work in the fields of media, education and culture.

In the National Review of the Implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women, a review in which the government presents answers to questions generated by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe and UN Women, the Belarusian government explains that they have increased the salaries of employees in the women-dominated public sector. Although they do not give specific figures, professions such as teachers, medical workers and pharmaceutical professionals were the main beneficiaries and are expected to receive further salary augmentation before the end of 2025. This legislation seeks to close the gap between the salaries of these predominantly female professions and the predominantly male industrial professions in Belarus, who consistently earn far more than their female counterparts.

Political Arena

Women have also been rising to prominence in the political arena. Despite the rigid, male-dominated, autocratic regime, in both 2015 and 2020, multiple women were registered as single candidates in the presidential elections, signaling progression towards gender equality across many professions.

While the gender wage gap in Belarus is nowhere near eradicated, these progressive measures put in place by the government and international entities are positive steps towards gender equality in the workplace. These steps provide progressives and feminists across Belarus with cautious optimism. Despite the work that remains, feminist leader Irina Solomatina believes that “being a woman in Belarus is good,” as she hopes for future equality between genders in the workplace and, in turn, a lower risk of poverty for Belarusian women.

– Jack Schuchard

Jack is based in Herndon, VA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

, ,

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

, ,

“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

, ,

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