Tag Archive for: Poverty In Bangladesh

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Anirban Helping Trafficking Survivors in Bangladesh

Trafficking Survivors in BangladeshBangladesh is the sixth largest migrant-sending country. Bangladeshi workers migrate to India, Maldives, the Middle East, Pakistan and Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Migrant workers from Bangladesh consist of low or unskilled workers. Middlemen and private recruitment agencies arrange for the migration process. Bangladeshi workers are subject to high migration fees and repay loans obtained from recruiters. This forces them to overstay visas and makes them vulnerable to trafficking, according to the U.S. Department of State.

Trafficking in Bangladesh

Women and children can be subject to recruitment fraud. Traffickers promise jobs to these vulnerable groups and exploit them in sex trafficking upon arrival at the location. According to the U.S. Department of State, 40% of Bangladeshi children become victims of sex trafficking victims and face exploitation abroad. Men are subject to forced labor. Forms of labor exploitation include discrepancies in wages or work hours, low or unpaid wages and fraudulent contracts. The U.S. Department of State report has shown passport retention, physical abuse and death due to inadequate protections in working environments.

The reason why these groups of people become vulnerable to exploitation stems from debt-based coercion, absence of adequate legal protection, lack of formal contracts and homelessness. Children become subject to hazardous forms of child labour and serve as collateral for their parents’ loans. Traffickers tempt rural people with alleged good employment opportunities and ultimately become victims of exploitation, the U.S. Department of State reports.

Helping Trafficking Survivors in Bangladesh

Anirban (the flame that never dies), is Bangladesh’s first trafficking survivors’ group. Founded in 2011 with the help of Winrock International, an NGO based in the United States, and USAID, Anirban continues to actively advocate for the rights of trafficking survivors in Bangladesh. Survivors manage Anirban groups and take the lead in helping other trafficking survivors in Bangladesh to build self-confidence and identity. Under the USAID Fight Slavery and Trafficking activity (2021-2026), Winrock International has supported them to become a nationally registered, self-sustaining organization that continues to advocate for the needs of these survivors.

Anirban groups work toward changing public perception of these trafficking survivors in Bangladesh, especially the stigmatization of trafficked people as victims. Sessions and meetings take place in schools with civil society organizations, journalists, the local government and survivors. The main agenda for these sessions is to promote human rights, women’s rights and “safe migration days” for the people, according to Winrock International.

The Flame That Never Dies

Saiful Islam’s story continues to inspire many individuals. An active member at Anirban, Saiful uses his experience as a cautionary tale to spread awareness of the hardships of migrants. Due to being unable to find a job and subsequently being unable to support his family and falling victim to poverty, Saiful began looking for jobs abroad. He comes across a job in Singapore with a two-year contract and a monthly salary of $1,600, Winrock International reports.

The recruiters receive a lump sum amount from Saiful to emigrate to Singapore. Saiful experiences severe hardships in Singapore. He does not secure a published job, does not receive his salary and faces threats. It is only after one year abroad he can return to Bangladesh. Saiful’s woes do not end. He no longer has a job, has lost his family property and has no money.

Through the support from the Bangladesh Counter Trafficking-in-Persons project, funded by USAID and implemented by Winrock International, he was able to get back on his feet. As a member of Anirban, he conducts outreach efforts and spreads awareness about the risks of child marriage and its illegality in Bangladesh. In cases where families are in entanglements with traffickers or suspected traffickers, Saiful guides these communities to develop practical alternatives and solutions. He emphasizes the importance of education and helps trafficking survivors in Bangladesh with social and support programs. Saiful is a beacon of hope for the trafficking survivors in Bangladesh. He uses his funds to support migrants in Bangladesh. With Saiful’s funds, he has been able to help 13 vulnerable families and uplift them from having the same plight as himself, according to Winrock International.

Looking Forward

The work of Anirban continues to be exemplary. The focus on participatory action research ensures addressing the needs of victims of child marriage and human trafficking. The continuous promotion and conversation on safe migration and survivor reintegration within these communities contribute to an effective bottom-up systemic change. Survivor networks have been effective in leading changes in local conditions such as poverty, which drive vulnerable groups to the risk of exploitation.

– Caren Thomas

Caren is based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Everything You Need to Know about Health Care in Bangladesh

Health Care in BangladeshAs of March 2024, Bangladesh has committed to transforming into a Smart-Bangladesh High-Income Country by 2041, with health care identified as a key priority in this plan. A collaboration between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Bangladeshi government has been established to advance health care. As of 2022, Bangladesh had only 13 doctors, nurses and midwives per 10,000 people, compared to the global median of 49. This partnership aims to improve these figures and enhance health care access for millions.

Life Expectancy in Bangladesh

Life expectancy in Bangladesh has increased significantly, from 65.6 years in 2000 to 73.1 years in 2021. This compares favorably to Southeast Asia’s overall life expectancy, which rose by 5.01 years from 63.4 years to 68.4 years in the same period. Bangladesh has improved the accessibility of health care, but there is more to be done.

Smiling Sun Clinics 

Smiling Sun Clinics has been a prominent part of health care in Bangladesh since 1997. It is the world’s largest nongovernmental organization (NGO) network of maternal and child health clinics globally. The NGO Health Services Delivery Project supports the Smiling Sun network, allowing millions of Bangladeshis to access health care. This network is composed of 25 NGOs and 399 clinics that are located in both urban and rural areas.

The services provided include emergency obstetric care and maternity care. More than 10,000 part-time clinics also operate and refer clients to full-time clinics if they believe more care is required. This allows community health workers to offer personal health care to their communities and helps to ensure universal health coverage.

The World Bank and USAID’s Roles in Health Care in Bangladesh

By 2025, one in every 10 people in Bangladesh will be 60 or older and this figure is expected to rise to one in five by 2050. In response, the World Bank organized a workshop in August 2023 to bring together health experts, stakeholders and policymakers. The goal is to foster progress in shaping health care to better address the needs of an aging population in Bangladesh.

Additionally, in August 2023, the World Bank approved $200 million to support primary health care in the country. This pledge benefited the Urban Health, Nutrition and Population Project, which will help 2.5 million children and provide 250,000 pregnant women with at least four antenatal checkups. Furthermore, in 2019, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programs in Bangladesh provided more than 46 million health service consultations. Technological improvements included developing solutions to detect deadly drug-resistant TB within two hours and digitizing national health information.

UNICEF’s Role

UNICEF’s immunization programs in Bangladesh have reached 3.5 million newborns with the Measles and rubella vaccine (MR1). Additionally, its nutrition interventions have improved the health and growth of countless children. The organization also helps strengthen health care infrastructure and train health workers to enhance service delivery for vulnerable populations.

– Amy Fox

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

Photo: Flickr

Rising Food Prices in Bangladesh and Charitable Responses

Rising Food Prices in Bangladesh and Charitable Responses The recent surge in food price inflation in Bangladesh has reached alarming levels, with the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reporting a 10.76% increase in May 2024, following a jump to 10.22% in April. This marks a continuing trend of escalating food costs. Mustafa K Mujeri, executive director of the Institute for Inclusive Finance and Development and former chief economist of the Bangladesh Bank, noted that “while global market prices have stabilized internal economic instability in Bangladesh is preventing consumers from benefiting from these changes.” Experts attribute the inflationary pressures initially to supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and further aggravated by the Russia-Ukraine war.

Historical Highs and Long-term Effects

Since Aug. 2023, Bangladesh has seen a staggering 12.34% increase in food prices, the highest in more than 13 years. This sharp rise has left approximately 71% of families struggling to afford necessities. Various factors, including global inflation, climate change impacting agricultural productivity and ongoing supply chain disruptions, contribute to this dramatic increase. The effects on families are profound, with widespread malnutrition and food insecurity.

Fluctuating Food Prices

In June 2024, food prices in Bangladesh surged by 10.42% compared to the same month the previous year, marking a significant increase. From 2013 to 2024, the average food inflation rate was 6.89%. The country’s highest food inflation, 12.56%, occurred in Oct. 2023, while the lowest rate, 3.77%, was in Feb. 2016. This rise in food prices has forced many Bangladeshi families into a daily struggle to secure enough food, leading to widespread malnutrition and persistent food insecurity. Despite these challenges, several charities are actively providing relief and support to those most affected by the crisis.

Goreeb Fund

The Goreeb Fund provides vital support to families through its distribution of family food packs containing essential groceries. These packs are crucial for families struggling with the sharp increase in food prices, ensuring they have enough to eat. The Goreeb Fund actively addresses immediate community needs, helping families maintain food security. Additionally, its Ricebag Project distributes rice to families in need and the Tubewell Project installs water pumps that supply clean drinking water. Each pump can serve up to seven families, enhancing community well-being by improving access to safe drinking water.

Salam Charity

Salam Charity addresses food insecurity by constructing water wells and distributing food packs to vulnerable families. Its initiatives ensure communities have access to clean water and provide essential nutrition. Each food pack, filled with rice, oil, lentils and sugar, supports a family for a month. By tackling both water and food needs, the charity enhances community well-being, especially in areas affected by rising food prices. Access to clean water and nutritious food supports daily life, empowers families to make the most of the resources they receive and improves overall health while reducing concerns about securing the next meal.

Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger is committed to addressing hunger and malnutrition in Bangladesh with both immediate and long-term solutions. Its programs, which reached more than 458,915 people last year, include nutrition education and emergency food distribution, focusing on sustainable changes that enable families to meet their own food needs in the future. It supports families like Shilpi’s in adopting climate-resilient farming techniques to increase food production at home. Shilpi shares significant improvements in her family’s diet and health, noting that “We can now provide for our children. My young children love fish and their father brings fish from our pond almost every day. My children’s health has improved so much and I find I have more energy as well. After selling eggs in the market, I can give eggs to my family for our daily breakfast. This was never possible before.” This self-sufficiency in food production allows them to mitigate the effects of rising food prices, ensuring continuous access to nutritious food.

Looking Ahead

The continuous surge in food prices in Bangladesh underscores the pressing need for effective interventions to address food insecurity and malnutrition. With inflation rates reaching historical highs, many families struggle to afford necessities, highlighting the critical role of charities like the Goreeb Fund, Salam Charity and Action Against Hunger. These organizations provide essential support through food distribution, clean water access and sustainable agricultural practices, helping to mitigate the impact of rising costs and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the assistance they need. As the situation evolves, coordinated efforts between the government and humanitarian organizations could be essential in stabilizing food prices and enhancing food security for all Bangladeshis.

– Fahima Begum

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

Photo: Flickr

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Dreamwater Providing Drinking Water in Bangladesh

DreamwaterDreamwater Enterprises LTD is a venture under Footsteps Bangladesh that provides Bangladeshi civilians with quality drinking water at an affordable price. Through the construction of water plants, portable water filters and low-cost household filters, Dreamwater has converted more than 4,50,000 liters of flood water into drinking water.

Bangladesh’s Water Crisis

Bangladesh, with a population of 171 million, faces a severe water crisis. More than 18% of its population lives below the poverty line and more than 40% lack access to safe water. This lack of access to clean water sources contributes to the prevalence of water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, dengue fever and tuberculosis. One of the most pressing issues is water contamination. Bangladesh has the highest rate of arsenic-contaminated water in the world, primarily due to natural geological sources polluting groundwater. The presence of arsenic in drinking water poses serious health risks, including skin lesions, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and developmental effects.

Furthermore, the country faces significant challenges due to high salinity levels in its water. This problem is exacerbated by a decrease in the Ganges River’s upstream flow, which has led to increased salinity intrusion from the Bay of Bengal. High salinity not only makes drinking water unsafe but also affects agriculture, as saline water can damage crops and reduce agricultural productivity. This, in turn, threatens food security and the livelihoods of farmers, who make up a significant portion of the population.

Bangladesh’s frequent and severe flooding compounds the water crisis. Flooding can contaminate freshwater sources with pollutants and pathogens, further reducing the availability of safe drinking water. During the monsoon season, the risk of water-borne diseases increases as floodwaters spread contaminants over large areas.

Dreamwater’s Work

Dreamwater’s innovations in water filtration have enabled it to take water from floods and convert it into safe drinking water. The filters take flood water and eliminate odor, enhance taste and remove potential toxins. Its portable water filters can be carried anywhere to convert any water into drinking water. The hand-powered version of the filter allows those in areas without electricity to have access to clean drinking water.

Dreamwater has created centralized water plants that can filter water for entire houses, apartment buildings, factories and other large-scale facilities. This creates safe tap water for drinking and bathing, helping eliminate the spread of waterborne disease in highly populated areas.

Dreamwater filters can convert more than 75 liters of water an hour and last more than 15,000 liters before needing replacement. They are priced at 20,000 BDT, which is around $170, making them affordable for low-income communities throughout the country.

Final Remark

With Dreamwater’s filters, areas in Bangladesh that have been ravished by flooding have an ensured source of clean drinking water at an affordable price. These filters help communities throughout Bangladesh save money and avoid disease, helping fight the country’s poverty and illness issues.

– Nicolas Mezzaucella

Nicolas is based in New Rochelle, NY, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Good Neighbors Tackles Global Poverty

Good Neighbors Tackles Global Poverty Good Neighbors, a global nonprofit organization established in South Korea in 1991, works to enhance the lives of marginalized and vulnerable children. It operates in more than 200 communities across 50 countries, including North Korea, Taiwan, Australia, Ghana and Chile.

Good Neighbors Korea

Good Neighbors actively supports the well-being of young adults. The organization provides 31,550 girls with feminine products, educational materials about the menstrual cycle and personal development. Additionally, it offers mentoring and therapy sessions to teach young adults how to express their emotions healthily. Between 2017 and 2023, Good Neighbors helped a total of 77,774 girls, supplying them with essential food and appliances.

In Busan, Good Neighbors has partnered with the City of Busan and other nonprofit organizations to offer a “self-reliance kit”. These kits assist young adults as they transition out of orphanage programs. These kits include bedding, cooking sets, heaters and more to facilitate a smoother move to independence. The project also provides career mentoring, driver’s license assistance and financial aid for post-secondary education. Overall, Good Neighbors has significantly improved the nutrition, education, housing and self-reliance of young adults.

Gugah Nurani Indonesia

In 2023, Gugah Nurani Indonesia (Good Neighbors Indonesia) and the Manggarai Barat Community Development Project (CDP) collaborated with the Golo Pua Village Government to enhance agricultural productivity and product availability through horticultural farming. The project implemented a drip irrigation system to increase water efficiency and boost chili production. This advancement has led to higher-quality crops, enabling farmers to earn more income. Additionally, it has provided consumers with greater access to agricultural products. Overall, this initiative fosters environmental sustainability and improves the socio-economic well-being of the village community.

From March 20 to 22, 2024, Gugah Nurani Indonesia and the Manggarai Barat Community Development Project (CDP) hosted a training session on seed breeding and pest management for Farmer Groups and Women Farmer Groups in Golo Pua Village. This training aimed to enhance seed quality and educate participants about effective pest management, improving productivity and environmental sustainability. With Gugah Nurani Indonesia’s support, the village is poised to withstand pest attacks and advance toward more productive and sustainable agriculture.

Philippines

Typhoon Rolly in 2020 severely limited water supplies from natural resources and disrupted water supply chains, primarily because residents relied on untreated water from deep wells and hand pumps. The challenging terrain requires residents to climb mountains and cross rivers just to fetch a gallon of water and adverse conditions further restrict access to these sources.

Good Neighbors International Philippines launched the “Securing Access to Flourish Empowerment for Water” (SAFE) Project. This initiative led to the construction of a water tank and reservoir, ensuring water delivery to every household and public school in the area. Additionally, the Barangay Water and Sanitation Association (BAWASA) was established, involving health care workers and community leaders from nine villages. As a result, the SAFE Project has benefited a total of 4,475 community members, significantly improving their daily lives, safety, health and overall well-being by securing access to one of life’s most important necessities: clean water.

Good Neighbors México

Xocoapa is struggling with poverty, economic adversity and a lack of health services, challenges that intensified following Hurricane Otis. In 2024, Good Neighbors Mexico responded by delivering food pantries stocked with basic foods, personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies to families in the community of Xocoapa, located in the municipality of Tlaocoapa, Guerrero. By supporting rural communities, Good Neighbors plays a crucial role in combating poverty and enhancing quality of life through sustainable development in the region.

Bangladesh

Since 2018, Good Neighbors Bangladesh has been implementing the ‘Building Resilience to Achieve Zero Hunger (BRAZH)’ project, funded by the U.N. World Food Program, in the Kurigra district. The project focuses on three main activities: Forecast Actions, Seasonal Livelihood Programming and Climate Risk Insurance. It has enhanced the capabilities of Seasonal Livelihood Programming beneficiaries by providing Entrepreneurship Development Training and practical training in various Income Generation Activities at the field level. A key goal of the training is to boost women’s participation in income-generating activities, fostering self-dependence and economic stability. So far, 2,852 people have participated, with increasing numbers receiving training. Through these ongoing efforts, Good Neighbors aims to reduce hunger and promote lasting self-reliance.

Looking Ahead

Good Neighbors’ initiatives across various countries demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable communities. From enhancing agricultural productivity in Indonesia to securing clean water access in the Philippines and addressing food insecurity in Mexico and Bangladesh, the organization continues to make significant strides. These ongoing efforts highlight the importance of sustainable development and empowerment in fostering resilience and self-reliance among affected populations.

– Sein Kim

Sein is based in Bellevue, WA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Controlling Noncommunicable Diseases in Bangladesh

Noncommunicable Diseases in BangladeshNoncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in Bangladesh. In 2019, NCDs, including cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases, accounted for 70% of mortality in the country. NCDs derive from genetic, environmental and behavioral factors, meaning a person’s lifestyle impacts their likelihood of diagnosis.

Air pollution in Bangladesh contributes to the rise of cardiovascular illnesses and chronic respiratory diseases, where heart disease, strokes and asthma impact individuals’ physical health. Unhealthy lifestyles, diet and physical inactivity are also causes of NCDs like cancer and diabetes. These ongoing causes and burdens have mobilized the government to work toward controlling NCDs in Bangladesh.

Health Discrimination

Health surveys from 2011 to 2018 have shown that socioeconomic disparities are connected to the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and overweight and obesity. For example, those who work in manual labor in Bangladesh are more exposed to air pollution, increasing the incidence of hypertension and obesity. Conversely, economic growth has led to more processed, readily available and low-cost foods available to poor people. Unhealthy diets also contribute to high NCD prevalence in poorer communities in the country.

Moreover, NCD services are costly and access to proper care is far less attainable for people experiencing poverty. These chronic conditions require long-term care and jeopardize patients’ financial stability with medical expenditures. In 2021, the country allocated 2.36% of its gross domestic product to health expenditure. Out-of-pocket spending accounts for a 68.5% share of health expenditure. Dependence on out-of-pocket spending causes financial distress, especially among vulnerable families.

The Plan

Bangladesh’s Multisectoral Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs 2018-2025 commits to address these diseases and improve the health care system. The operation plan’s success requires four courses of action that are conducive to controlling noncommunicable diseases in Bangladesh.

  • Action area 1: Advocacy, leadership and partnerships.
  • Action area 2: Promotion and risk reduction.
  • Action area 3: Health systems strengthening for early detection and management of NCDs and their risk factors.
  • Action Area 4: Surveillance, monitoring and research.

Successes since 2018

Through partnerships, the country has made significant progress in creating a strong foundation for NCD prevention and control. The collaboration between 30 ministries and agencies was one notable success. In the 2022 first National NCDs Conference in Bangladesh, national and international stakeholders assembled to discuss NCD prevention and control strategies and established the Dhaka Declaration, 32 steps to combat NCDs. This declaration furthered the Multisectoral plan’s goal of controlling tobacco, alcohol and indoor air pollution and promoting physical activity and healthy diets.

NCD Corners in health complexes have also been developed across the country, increasing access to care. These corners facilitate early detection and management of common NCDs, even in rural areas. By October 2022, 6,231 patients were treated for high blood pressure and 1,386 for diabetes through these corners. The National Heart Foundation Bangladesh has also reported an increase in hypertension control across the country’s administrative districts. For instance, in Kualara, from May 2022 to October 2022, the number of patients with controlled hypertension rose by 15%, from 55%,  with the assistance of NCD corners. These corners are located in community health centers and primary health care facilities, providing easy access for all population groups.

Furthermore, progress has been made in developing policies to control shared risk factors of NCDs. To promote healthy diets, the country has imposed taxation on domestically produced sugar-sweetened beverages. First, there is a 15% value-added tax and then a 25% supplementary duty for carbonated drinks and 35% for energy drinks. Taxes on unhealthy items help reduce consumption and the prevalence of obesity and other NCDs can decrease.

Ongoing Efforts

There is still more to be done. Taxation is effective in controlling Bangladesh’s tobacco problem. In the fiscal years 2024 and 2025, the government strives for a 66% increase in the tax rate on cigarettes and tobacco products. This change factors in indoor pollution control as tobacco smoke inside homes exposes nonsmokers to smoking and poor air quality.

The plan further addresses health financing and expenditure. In the fiscal year 2024, the country increased its federal budget allocation for health by 9%. However, this improvement had little effect on the country’s health care quality. Bangladesh’s Multisectoral plan proposes financial risk protection through:

  • Accessing NCD services without upfront costs.
  • Integrating essential services at district and lower levels, including an annual NCD voucher system with minimal costs.
  • Adjusting the fee structure if other strategies cannot be implemented.

By prioritizing these strategies, Bangladesh can look toward a healthier future for all its citizens, ensuring equitable access to quality health care.

Conclusion

Noncommunicable diseases continue to impact mortality and quality of life in Bangladesh. However, Bangladesh’s Multisectoral plan has successfully coordinated efforts across various sectors to control NCDs. Collaboration, policies, regulations and initiatives for enhancing accessibility remain conducive to these goals.

– Caroline Albright

Caroline is based in Milton, MA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Recycling Waste in Bangladesh

Recycling Waste in BangladeshBangladesh, located in South Asia, is home to more than 170 million people. The capital, Dhaka, has seen its population rise to 9 million. This rapid urbanization, along with an expanding middle class and a robust manufacturing sector, has led to a significant increase in plastic waste production. Each year, the country generates approximately 977,000 tonnes of plastic waste, with a substantial portion originating from Dhaka. A World Bank Blogs report indicates that the average resident of Dhaka produces 22.5 kg of plastic waste annually, a figure that is expected to rise as the city’s population continues to grow.

Health Risks of Waste Disposal

As the volume of plastic waste continues to grow, Dhaka’s recycling sector is increasingly struggling to process it sustainably. While Dhaka’s recycling industry employs approximately 5,400 people, it is a relatively informal sector, exposing many workers to hazardous conditions without effective health protection. Without funding or support, the increasing volumes of waste can potentially overwhelm the current recycling systems. As a result, much of this waste ends up in landfills and into rivers, putting the cities’ population at risk of poor health. The ingestion of microplastics and the contamination of water and soil link to increased dengue fever cases, which claimed 327 lives over seven months in 2023. This crisis strains local health systems and disproportionately affects the poorest citizens, who struggle to afford necessary medical treatments.

Recycling Waste in Bangladesh

Recognizing the strain that escalating plastic waste places on its infrastructure and citizens, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Environment formulated a National Action Plan for Sustainable Plastic Management. This initiative targets a 50% increase in recycling waste in Bangladesh by 2025 and aims to cut overall plastic consumption by 2030. The plan underscores the adoption of a circular economy to mitigate the hazardous impacts of waste disposal. By enhancing recycling efforts initially and subsequently addressing the fundamental issue of excessive plastic usage, this strategy aims to alleviate waste-related health risks across the nation.

Micro-Enterprises in Bangladesh

While government initiatives address large-scale waste management by implementing policies, the real momentum often comes from grassroots efforts. A recent World Bank Blogs report reveals the work of many entrepreneurs who prioritize recycling plastic waste in their small businesses. With support from the World Bank’s Sustainable Enterprises project (SEP), Md Jashim Uddin, a micro-entrepreneur, for example, recycles waste from local shoe factories to produce new footwear. This small-scale circular economic model not only mitigates environmental impact but also enhances local health conditions by reducing pollution and creating new jobs with improved working conditions.

Looking Ahead

Bangladesh faces the escalating issue of plastic waste as urbanization and industrial growth continue. Government initiatives aim to boost recycling rates and reduce plastic use, while grassroots efforts and micro-enterprises contribute to waste management and environmental health. These combined strategies can potentially improve public health and achieve sustainable development. Ongoing dedication to innovative solutions and effective waste management could be vital for Bangladesh’s future.

– Aimee Masters

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

Photo: Pexels

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Remittance to Bangladesh

Remittance to BangladeshIn recent years, remittances have become one of the primary economic contributors in recipient countries. Remittances are money transfers that international migrants send to their families in their home countries. In 2022, these money transfers to low- and middle-income countries were $647 billion. Remittance to Bangladesh has become a vital economic pillar, for a country of 171 million people.

Bangladesh’s Standing in Global Remittance

According to the World Migration Report, Bangladesh ranked as the eighth-highest recipient of remittances globally and third-highest in South Asia. In 2022, the country received a staggering $21.5 billion inflow of remittance. It is a major source of economic growth and development for Bangladesh, contributing 4.7% to the country’s GDP.

Overview of the Remittance Sector

Since independence, migration has been a significant factor in improving living standards and reducing poverty and unemployment in Bangladesh. With a huge young population and an increasing unemployment rate, many citizens have taken short-term jobs abroad.

In 2023, a record 1.3 million individuals left the country for overseas work, and many others have unregistered contracts. These migrations are mostly for unskilled or semi-skilled work.  The government aims to send an additional 1 million migrants to various countries, expanding the diaspora and increasing inward remittances by creating an “overseas employment market expansion roadmap.”

Economic and Social Factors

A mix of economic and social factors influences migration patterns from Bangladesh. Economically, many Bangladeshis migrate to escape poverty, seeking better job opportunities abroad due to limited prospects at home. The country’s high population and limited job market create pressure on local employment, pushing people to look for work in countries with higher labor demand. Socially, the desire to improve living standards and provide better education and health care for their families motivates migration, according to the Migration Policy Institute (MPI).

Remittances to Bangladesh have a profound impact on the economy. Back-home recipients use these funds to finance essential needs, education and small businesses, according to the MPI. This financial support often boosts the production of tradable and non-tradable goods and services, influences land markets and fosters the growth of banking and commerce sectors.

About 70% of remittance recipients use the funds for essential needs like food, clothing and shelter. They also invest significantly in agriculture, small businesses and housing, driving local entrepreneurship and job creation.

Improving Food Security

A World Bank analysis indicates that households in rural Bangladesh receiving remittances are more food secure compared to those that do not receive remittances. This means that remittance-recipient families are better able to afford and access sufficient food, leading to improved nutritional outcomes and overall well-being.

However, family support is not the sole driving factor of inward remittances. The migrants’ skills and education levels also play a part. A migrant with a secondary education is likely to send back more money than someone with no formal education. This highlights the importance of education and skills development in maximizing the remittance potential of future generations of Bangladeshi migrants.

Remittance Incentive Programme

The Bangladeshi government recognizes the immense contribution of its migrant workforce to the overall economic growth of the country. The Remittance Incentive Programme, launched in July 2019, is a significant initiative of the government. This program aims to encourage Bangladeshis working abroad to use official channels for sending money home, rather than informal systems. The program offers a cash reward directly deposited into the sender’s bank account for remittances sent through legal procedures. The incentive was 2% initially, then raised to 2.5% in 2022 and currently stands at 5%. This initiative promotes the use of formal channels for remittance and enhances transparency.

Remittance and the COVID-19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic-induced global economic turmoil, the World Bank predicted that reducing inward remittance to Bangladesh would hit the economy hard. Despite that, remittance inflow started to increase in the last half of 2020 making it to the list of the top ten highest remittance recipient countries

This significant inflow has improved living standards, financed education, boosted local economies, and elevated the country’s foreign currency reserves past $46 billion. The remittances have also played a crucial role in stabilizing the balance of payments and enhancing the nation’s credit rating

Conclusion

Remittance to Bangladesh can be a powerful force to reduce poverty. Supporting education and skills development and fostering safe working conditions for migrant workers, can ensure this vital lifeline continues to flow and empower the nation for generations to come.

– Sumaiya Sultana

Sumaiya is based in London, UK and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay

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Food Fortification: Using Staple Foods to Combat Malnutrition

Food Fortification: Using Staple Foods to Combat MalnutritionSince 2017, the prevalence of undernourishment has risen globally, with an estimated 735 million people affected according to the 2023 Global Hunger Index. Undernutrition is linked to nearly half of all deaths among children under 5, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies micronutrient deficiencies as a significant health issue, particularly the lack of iron, iodine, vitamin A and zinc, which are crucial for growth and development. These deficiencies pose severe health risks, especially to children and pregnant women in developing nations. With inflating food costs, climate change and the growing threat of conflicts around the world,  the world is experiencing its worst global food crisis in decades. In response, food fortification presents a sustainable, innovative and cost-effective strategy to combat malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies worldwide.

Addressing Malnutrition

Malnutrition and chronic illnesses in the Global South pose significant obstacles to achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Concern Worldwide U.S. indicates that, at the current rate of progress, the MDG of eradicating hunger by 2030 is unlikely. Micronutrient deficiencies impact more than two billion people worldwide, with severe repercussions for the health, social and economic well-being of nations, families and individuals, particularly affecting women and children.

Strategic Approaches to Combat Malnutrition

Food fortification involves deliberately enhancing the nutritional quality of food by adding vitamins and minerals. This practice helps prevent, reduce and control micronutrient deficiencies in the general population and specific groups, including children and pregnant women. Over recent decades, large-scale food fortification has emerged as a crucial strategy to combat malnutrition, reaching billions by making staple foods like flour, rice and edible oil more nutritious.

Globally, experts rank food fortification as one of the most cost-effective interventions in global development. Nutrition International (NI), an organization dedicated to providing nutrition interventions where they are most needed, collaborates with governments, industry stakeholders and other organizations. The organization works to supply fortified staple foods and condiments by promoting mandatory fortification and enhancing social safety net programs through these partnerships.

Fortified Rice: The Bangladeshi Experience

Rice serves as the primary nutrition source in many developing countries, including Bangladesh, where extensive malnutrition and chronic illnesses persist. It accounts for 67.5% of the daily caloric intake in Bangladesh, making it the third-largest rice market globally from 2020 to 2021. Approximately 40% of the rice produced in Bangladesh is for home consumption. For poorer populations, meals typically consist of rice accompanied only by vegetables and spices. Consequently, the Bangladeshi diet often lacks essential micronutrients, contributing to a significant national burden of micronutrient deficiencies. Despite notable reductions in malnutrition rates among children and women, these deficiencies remain widespread.

According to the 2019-2020 National Micronutrient Survey of Bangladesh, approximately 61% of surveyed women did not achieve the minimum requirements for healthy dietary diversity. With assistance from Nutrition International, Bangladesh has utilized large-scale food fortification within its social safety net programs to combat micronutrient deficiencies by providing fortified rice. Collaborative efforts involving the Bangladeshi government, the World Food Programme and Nutrition International have facilitated rice fortification with zinc, iron, folic acid, vitamin A and vitamins B1 and B12. This fortified rice is distributed across Bangladesh’s districts through various points. Since launching in 2013, the initiative has reached more than 15 million people via two major safety net programs. In 2021, the fortified rice initiative expanded into commercial markets on a pilot basis.

Flour and Oil: The Case of Pakistan

Pakistan loses about 3% of its GDP or approximately $7.6 billion, annually due to malnutrition. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that 37.5 million people in Pakistan are not receiving proper nutrition. In response, Nutrition International, funded by U.K. aid and collaborating with Mott MacDonald, initiated a project to institutionalize fortified edible oil and wheat flour across 56 districts in Pakistan. By 2019, these ongoing efforts had significantly increased the production of fortified goods, providing more than 65 million people across the country with essential micronutrients. The program now aims to expand its reach to 155 million people with fortified edible oil and 87 million people with fortified wheat flour by 2027.

Looking Ahead

The positive impact of food fortification programs in countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan illuminates a path toward mitigating global malnutrition. The ongoing initiatives demonstrate the tangible benefits of strategic collaborations that enhance the nutritional content of staple foods, offering hope for substantial improvements in public health. As these ongoing efforts expand, the potential to significantly reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improve life outcomes for millions globally continues to grow.

– Irene Suvillaga

Irene is based in Ontario, Canada and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need To Know about Poverty in Bangladesh

Poverty in BangladeshBangladesh is a country in South Asia that neighbors India to the West, North and East and the Bay of Bengal to the South. Formerly known as East Pakistan, Bangladesh first received recognition in 1971 when the two parts of Pakistan split after a bitter war for independence. In 1975, Bangladesh entered the United Nations (U.N.) as a Less-Developed Country (LDC) under President Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

In recent years, Bangladesh has reduced population growth, improved health care and education and is on track to transition into U.N. Developing Country status by 2026. Still, limited resources and a volatile political sphere have hindered progress. This is everything you need to know about poverty in Bangladesh.

 Top 10 Facts About Poverty in Bangladesh

  1. Land is vulnerable to flooding and cyclones – The rivers overflow their banks each year and inundate the countryside from June to October. Known as Monsoon Season, slow drainage and continuous rainfall have caused the mean precipitation amount to be more than 1,700 millimeters during these months.
    Severe floods damage crops, ruin villages and take a heavy toll on human and animal populations. In turn, this causes a strain on agricultural production and the supply of food. In August of 2023, 24% of households in Bangladesh suffered from food insecurity due to the rainfall and heat waves.
  2. Public systems require additional global investment – The Intergovernmental Committee of Experts on Sustainable Development Financing (ICESDF) found that all countries will require additional global investments in the range of $5 trillion to $7 trillion per year till 2030 to meet the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This will help countries like Bangladesh improve their basic infrastructure, power stations, water systems, sanitation and rural development.
  3. Intraregional religious tensions are rising – Bangladesh is a predominantly Muslim country but has held a tradition of tolerance with large pockets of religious minorities, such as Hindus and Christians, living among one another. However, from 2014 to 2017, Islamists carried out a campaign of violence against atheists and secular intellectuals. Tensions have receded in the years since, but the densely populated nature of Bangladesh makes it predisposed to intraregional conflict, increasing its vulnerability to poverty.
  4. Development goals are not involved in national planning – Development goals have not been properly integrated into the national planning process. Funding is not allocated toward developing public systems, which leads to continued pressure on resources. As of 2018, Bangladesh has at least 14 national plans and strategies, with 20% of the U.N.’s SDGs not included.
  5. There is a lot of neighboring conflict – Bangladesh shares its southeastern border with Myanmar and in recent decades, this border has been marked by an unprecedented humanitarian crisis. In August 2017, Myanmar’s military executed an ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya Muslims, sending hundreds of thousands of refugees into Bangladesh. Kutupalong, the world’s largest refugee settlement, holds more than 600,000 Rohingya Muslims in the Cox’s Bazar region of Bangladesh. In 2019, Bangladesh announced it would no longer accept refugees due to insufficient resources.
  6. The economy relies on the textile industry – The ready-made garment (RMG) industry accounted for more than 84% of Bangladesh’s total exports in 2021. Bangladesh is the second-largest garment-producing country in the world. Still, it has come at the expense of the labor conditions for the estimated four million workers in the RMG industry, the majority of whom are women.
  7. It is not expensive to live in Bangladesh – Even though the monthly salary in Bangladesh is on par with the average of other U.N. LDCs, the cost of living is low. Bangladesh ranks 192nd out of 197 countries in terms of cost of living. https://livingcost.org/cost/bangladesh But, to counter that, the monthly salary after tax is roughly $275 per month, which only accounts for the cost of living for 0.7 of a month.
  8. Bangladesh is ranked 129th according to the Human Development Index (HDI) – Bangladesh’s HDI of 0.661 is higher than the HDI regional value of South Asia. The index measures a country’s development based on factors such as life expectancy, the standard of living and education. Bangladesh is now in the medium development category. However, inequality poses a significant challenge and when adjusted to account for inequality, Bangladesh’s HDI value drops to 0.503, losing 23.9% of its original value.
  9. Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) has continued to decline – IMR is the number of infant deaths before his or her first birthday for every 1,000 live births. It is a key indicator for not only maternal and infant health but the overall health of society as well. Bangladesh’s IMR peaked in 1971 with a rate of more than  200 infant deaths, but it has continued to decline. In 2021, Bangladesh had a rate of 23 infant deaths. This is done with the help of Bangladesh NGO Unity Through Population Service (UTPS), which has celebrated 40 years of improving socioeconomic conditions through reproductive health assistance, education services and individual economic development.
  10. Bangladesh is experiencing one of the fastest reductions in poverty – Since its induction to the U.N. in 1975, Bangladesh has witnessed one of the fastest reductions in poverty worldwide due to its continued SDGs. In 2018, Bangladesh succeeded in reducing the proportion of its population below the national poverty line to 18.6%, three years ahead of projections through government programs, such as the Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA). In 2010, BEZA began introducing 97 Economic Zones, opening new textiles and international trade industries.

The situation may look pessimistic based on some of these 10 facts about poverty in Bangladesh. However, despite its challenges, Bangladesh has vastly improved and continues to improve. The cultural environment is rich and diverse and citizens continue to work toward a better future for Bangladesh. Overall, everything you need to know about poverty in Bangladesh highlights that, while there is room for improvement, the country has great potential to continue developing into a prosperous member of the U.N. and international realm.

– Anjum Alam
Photo: Pixabay