Posts

, ,

Humanitarian Visit to North Korea Signals Hope for Future Aid

Humanitarian Visit to North Korea Signals Hope for Future Aid From July 13 to 16, 2024, Qu Dongyu, the Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) visited North Korea. This marked the first confirmed humanitarian visit by a U.N. official to North Korea since 2021, signaling a significant development in the international effort to resume humanitarian assistance to the country’s most vulnerable populations.

As a result of North Korea’s rigid border policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a mass exodus of aid workers from the country in 2020. By spring 2021, the last remaining humanitarian officials had left, as North Korean authorities refused almost all attempts by aid organizations to reenter. This occurred despite the pandemic’s disproportionate impact on food and health security among the most impoverished populations. The government’s stringent measures included strict border closures, increased surveillance and severe restrictions on freedom of movement and access to information.

Break in Isolation Amid Heightened Repression

Qu Dongyu’s visit is significant not only because of its timing but also due to its potential implications for reactivating humanitarian efforts. The FAO described the trip as a “milestone” demonstrating mutual trust and respect, opening new avenues for engagement to tackle food security and nutrition challenges post-pandemic. During his visit, Qu met with North Korean officials and toured key agricultural sites, including the Kangdong Greenhouse Complex and the Kangdong Central Institute for Vegetables.

He commended the “great achievements made by [the] DPRK people in agriculture development, food security and the Pyongyang city” under Kim Jong Un’s leadership. However, independent experts remain cautious. The FAO’s Global Information and Early Warning System reported that “the food security situation is expected to remain fragile amid persistent weak economic growth.”

Expert Opinions and Skepticism

Analysts have expressed skepticism about the improvements in North Korea’s food security. A former CIA analyst, William Brown, suggested that Qu’s flattering remarks might be a strategic move to maintain access to North Korea. “So many people in North Korea are going hungry even as we speak,” Brown said. Bradley Babson, a former World Bank adviser, interpreted the excessive compliments as a means to “reestablish a relationship,” emphasizing that the FAO’s return would be beneficial. The government’s reluctance to accept international assistance has been a longstanding issue. In 2021, North Korea rejected several offers to provide millions of doses of COVID-19 vaccines, including offers from COVAX, South Korea and Russia. The health care system, already fragile due to underfunding and lack of resources, has deteriorated further, with access to medicines and medical supplies severely limited.

Humanitarian Impact of the Pandemic

The pandemic has worsened North Korea’s chronic food insecurity. The U.N. reports that since 2017, more than 10 million people—more than 40% of the country’s official population of 25 million—face food insecurity. Reports have emerged of food shortages even among Pyongyang’s elite, with incidents of starvation across various regions. With minimal external aid, issues of widespread malnutrition and deteriorating children’s health persist. Humanitarian organizations such as UNICEF and the World Food Program (WFP) are prepared to resume operations but have been without access for nearly four years.

Regional Engagements and Geopolitical Dynamics

Qu’s visit to North Korea followed an official visit to Mongolia from July 10 to 12, 2024, where he discussed sustainable agrifood systems transformation. These regional engagements underscore the FAO’s commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture in developing countries. Analysts also note geopolitical undercurrents, such as China’s possible interest in counterbalancing Russia’s growing ties with North Korea. Qu, who is Chinese, met with Chinese Ambassador Wang Yajun in Pyongyang, highlighting China’s longstanding support for North Korea.

Moving Forward

The recent visit by the FAO Director-General to North Korea marks a crucial step in resuming humanitarian efforts after years of restricted access. While challenges remain, this engagement could lead to renewed cooperation on food security and agricultural development. Qu Dongyu, in particular, emphasized the importance of innovation, digitalization and green development in transforming the agricultural sector. He encouraged the North Korean government to explore new opportunities for collaboration and resource mobilization to support the most vulnerable populations. The outcome of these ongoing efforts potentially depends on sustained collaboration between North Korea and international organizations.

– Sophia Lee

Sophia is based in Media, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

3 Charities Operating in Haiti

Charities Operating in HaitiSince Jan. 2024, gang violence in Haiti has killed at least 3,661 people, reports the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Gangs are reportedly recruiting children and destroying Haitian agriculture while committing widespread sexual violence against women. The United Nations (U.N.) World Food Program (WFP) reports that half the population faces acute hunger due to displacement and destruction from the violence. Charitable organizations are playing a critical role in mitigating hunger and poverty in Haiti under these devastating circumstances.

Poverty in Haiti

Haiti ranks as the poorest country in Latin America and the Caribbean and suffers from some of the highest rates of income inequality worldwide, with more than six in 10 people living in poverty. The nation’s history features persistent political instability and significant natural disasters. Agriculture, forestry and fisheries, which constitute a fifth of Haiti’s GDP, employ nearly half of the labor force. However, agricultural productivity faces severe constraints due to inadequate access to technology and credit, along with substandard road and irrigation infrastructure. Additionally, post-harvest losses are considerable, often due to insufficient storage and processing facilities.

3 Charities Operating in Haiti

  1. CARE International. CARE International began its operations in Haiti in 1954 as a global charity focused on addressing the root causes of poverty, particularly gender inequality, which disproportionately drives women into poverty. The organization played a pivotal role during Haiti’s 2010 Cholera outbreak by providing clean water services and supporting local hospitals. Following the devastating earthquake in Aug. 2021, CARE provided food, shelter, hygiene and sanitation assistance. In response to recent violence, the organization has urged the international community to deliver essential humanitarian aid to combat poverty in Haiti and collaborates with local authorities to provide support wherever possible.
  2. Haiti Children. Haiti Children, established in 1994, supports disadvantaged, orphaned and disabled children in Haiti. The organization runs several programs to alleviate poverty and enhance children’s lives. For example, through the Haiti Children Feeding Programme it provides meals to 3,000 children annually. In 2024, Haiti Children distributed 2 million meals and created 141 jobs. The organization underscores the urgency of supporting children, especially following recent reports that gangs are recruiting children amid the ongoing violence.
  3. Haiti Foundation Against Poverty. Founded in 2007, the ‘Haiti Foundation Against Poverty’ aims to dissociate Haiti from poverty by providing health care, education and creating jobs. The charity has launched several projects to reduce poverty in Haiti. A significant initiative is the ‘Hope House,’ a care center for malnourished, injured and orphaned infants and toddlers.

Looking Ahead

Humanitarian aid could be crucial in ending the gang violence across the region. The continued support of charities operating in Haiti is similarly important, to not only directly support the people of Haiti but also to raise awareness of the urgent situation in the country. While the work of charities is incredibly impactful, humanitarian assistance from organizations and countries with more substantial resources could greatly benefit the people of Haiti.

– Joshua Marriott

Joshua is based in Cardiff, Wales and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Global Human Rights: Strengthening UN Support to Save Lives

Global Human RightsSeptember 2024 is the month when world leaders and diplomats from around the world gather in New York City, New York, to discuss a variety of global issues ranging from conflict to poverty to education, among many others. From September 22-30, the whole world will be watching as world leaders address international challenges, such as eliminating nuclear weapons and antimicrobial resistance, in summits and high-level meetings in an effort to fulfill the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Overall, the theme of the 79th session of the U.N. General Assembly is “Leaving no one behind: acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.” Despite the positive aspiration in the theme, reports from U.N. agencies within the last year show that there has not been stronger U.N. support recently.

Institutional Issues Within the UN System

The U.N. system is facing internal institutional challenges, resulting mainly from funding shortages and inadequate support for its efforts to help vulnerable communities in places such as Gaza and Mali. In fact, on August 30, 2024, the acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator stated that as the number of humanitarian emergencies increases, a shortage of funding hinders them from “reaching people who need life-saving assistance.”

Although agencies such as the World Food Programme (WFP) and the U.N. Refugee Agency (UNHCR) have been implementing innovative solutions to difficult issues, countries are not providing the stronger U.N. support needed to make these solutions work on a larger scale. This highlights a lack of commitment from the international community to protect and preserve global human rights values.

More Funding Equals More Lives Saved

The main obstacle to the U.N.’s humanitarian work is the lack of adequate funding for its critical life-saving operations. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) at the U.N. has stated that of the $49 billion needed to reach at least 187 million people who need assistance the most, it only received 29% of the funds.

As of August 30, 2024, the countries whose emergency operations are deemed underfunded include Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Honduras, Lebanon, Niger, Sudan and Syria. Although OCHA was able to assist these countries via its emergency response funds, stronger financial support is still needed to ensure that OCHA can reach as many vulnerable communities as possible around the world.

Funding Innovation in Humanitarian Aid

As humanitarian aid becomes more difficult and complex, U.N. agencies have decided to find new ways to overcome obstacles and deliver more life-saving assistance than before, including digital data-sharing between agencies. For example, UNHCR has a database on digital registration, identity management and case management called PRIMES. In contrast, WFP has one on digital beneficiary information and transfer management called SCOPE.

Thus, in an effort to enhance their aid operations, UNHCR and WFP created a joint database combining both PRIMES and SCOPE called PING that helps both agencies transfer data safely and efficiently. Therefore, if the international community provides stronger U.N. support via more funds, it will enable U.N. agencies to innovate their life-saving operations further.

Strengthening Global Human Rights

The needs and innovations of U.N. agencies highlight the urgent need for stronger support from countries worldwide. With the rise in global conflicts and crises, the number of vulnerable people requiring life-saving aid has grown, outpacing the U.N.’s current funding capabilities. Although U.N. agencies have been implementing the necessary reforms that enhanced their life-saving operations, such as inter-agency digital data sharing, more monetary support is needed for them to implement more innovative reforms.

– Abdullah Dowaihy

Abdullah is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

How UNPRPD is Addressing Disability and Poverty in Cameroon

Disability and Poverty in CameroonGlobally, 16% of the population experiences significant disability, with the risk of these individuals developing depression, asthma and strokes, doubling. Furthermore, alongside increased risk of contracting health conditions, disabled people are also more vulnerable to poverty; discrimination, stigmas and exclusion from employment are all inequities that disabled people face.

Of the 28.6 million people in Cameroon, 5.4% have a disability. In higher prevalence regions like South and Littoral, this figure can increase to 11%. Discriminatory treatment of disabled people in Cameroon increases the likelihood of these individuals experiencing poverty. For example, disabled adults between the ages of 18-49 in North West Cameroon were almost three times more likely to live in the poor quarter in comparison to non-disabled adults. The United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) has partnered with U.N. Cameroon to address the experience of disabled people in the Central African country and decrease the chance of individuals becoming impoverished.

UNPRPD’s Work

UNPRD supports nations in implementing a disability-inclusive CRPD, which focuses on the human rights of people with disabilities. The Partnership funds this support with the vision that every person with a disability can fully participate in society and be completely respected, protected, and fulfilled.

With a budget of $700,000, UNPRPD has implemented a program that aims to strengthen disability inclusion within Cameroonian public institutions by monitoring disability-inclusive legislation of key duty bearers, such as CONRHA and CHRC.

UNPRD has identified a Strategic Framework to promote disability inclusion, with five preconditions that must be in place to ensure that the addressing of the rights of disabled persons in Cameroon:

  1. “Equality and non-discrimination”
  2. “Accessibility”
  3. “Inclusive service delivery”
  4. “CRPD-compliant budgeting and financial management”
  5. “Accountability and governance”

These preconditions aim to educate Organizations of Persons with Disabilities so that they can further understand how to improve the experiences of those with disabilities.

Disability and Poverty in Cameroon

UNPRPD’s program could have a significant impact on disability and poverty in Cameroon. Equality and non-discrimination are key to reducing the link between disability and poverty; negative attitudes towards disability increase the likelihood of disabled people experiencing poverty due to lack of understanding, inclusion and respect. According to a 2021 Country Report, a key finding of the program indicated that the development of the non-discriminatory provision of the CRPD to the public, schools and hospitals would combat the stigmatization and exclusion of disabled persons. False perceptions and beliefs about disability are damaging, therefore UNPRD addressing these issues that disabled people face is crucial in destigmatizing disability and reducing poverty. 

Another key precondition that targets poverty in the lives of disabled persons is accessibility. Cameroonian laws that ensure disabled people can access public and private buildings are not always enforced. Moreover, budgets to improve accessibility measures are minimal, excluding disabled persons from having the same opportunities as non-disabled Cameroonians, according to a 2021 Country Report. UNPRPD’s program addresses accessibility issues, minimizing the risk of poverty for disabled people by enabling these individuals the same education and employment opportunities.

Final Thoughts

By 2050, the Cameroonian population could increase by 85%, meaning that an estimated 51,279,577 people will live in the Central African nation. A significant population increase would translate to an increase in poverty also, but UNPRPD is working to prevent this.

The Cameroonian Ministry of Social Affairs (MINAS) met with the UNPRPD program’s steering committee (UNFPA, OHCHR and UNESCO) in May 2024 to discuss its results. Pauline Irène Nguene, Minister of Social Affairs in Cameroon, commended those involved in the project. Nguene directly addressed one of the program’s preconditions – accessibility – and expressed that people with disabilities “will have access to inclusive services without discrimination in Cameroon.”

In a visit to Cameroon in August 2024, the U.N. High Commissioner also noted that more than 40% of Cameroonians are under 15. Indeed, Volker Türk was optimistic that the new generation would “prompt social change […] on equality, on accountability and more”, promising a brighter tomorrow for all Cameroonians.

The UNPRD helps cultivate a more inclusive society for people struggling with disability and poverty in Cameroon, helping individuals in their everyday lives.

– Megan Hall

Megan is based in Suffolk, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

, ,

Protecting Young Girls in Haiti Through Humanitarian Responses

Protecting Young Girls in Haiti Through Humanitarian ResponsesIn Haiti, more than 5.5 million citizens urgently need humanitarian assistance due to escalating armed violence, food and water shortages, political instability and forced displacement. While gang activity was once concentrated in urban centers, it has spread into rural, isolated regions over the past few years, weakening the government’s authority and the nation’s sovereignty. Many of these crises developed following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, leading to a loss of political agency throughout the country that external health and environmental issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated.

Amid these ongoing crises, Haitian women continue to face disproportionate consequences in comparison to their male counterparts, specifically in the form of widespread gender-based violence. As humanitarian organizations prioritize responses to alleviate institutional weaknesses in Haiti, they place the unique struggles of women and girls at the forefront to ensure equitable progress.

Overview of Economic and Political Insecurities

Gang violence has only continued to escalate across Haiti since 2021, beginning to creep into almost all regions. A primary point of concern is the capturing of Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince, which is currently seized by a variety of differing gang entities. With Port-au-Prince serving as the primary center of distribution for the nation, many armed gangs have been able to acquire access to the most fundamental roads, ports and fuel terminals for the Haitian economy, restricting the potential for economic growth.

The newfound authority of these gangs allows them to attack individuals and families without political repercussions, instating a sense of fear across the population. In 2022 alone, authorities recorded more than 2,000 murders and 1,114 kidnappings in Haiti, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. Additionally, some gang members have compromised humanitarian spaces that could provide services and supplies that would lead to greater infrastructural resistance to political violence. Currently, there have been an estimated 893 humanitarian access incidents as a result of conflicts occurring between gangs, police and those dedicated to serving in these NGOs.

Rise in Sexual Violence and Discrimination

The increase in gang activity within Haiti has also led to higher rates of sexual violence, often used as a means of punishment and control by gangs. These violent and potentially deadly measures coerce families during ransoms, threatening the livelihoods of women and girls in Haiti. Although reports reveal a 49% increase in gender-based violence in recent years, the actual extent of sexual violence remains underreported and frequently unpublished under gang control.

Currently, women constitute more than half of the 580,000 displaced people in Haiti, many of whom reside temporarily in makeshift camps and other forms of shelter. Most of these camps, operating with limited funding, lack lighting or locks in critical areas such as bedrooms or toilets, heightening the risk for gender-based aggression. Despite the presence of humanitarian organizations, gangs deliberately target women and young girls in Haiti to block their access to humanitarian assistance, creating a greater need for financial dependency. A report by the United Nations (U.N.) Women’s Rapid Gender Assessment revealed that more than 90% of women living in these camps do not have a sustainable income source, with another 16% feeling “intimidated, harassed or traumatized” by armed gangs.

Health Care for Pregnant Women

Less than half of the health facilities in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area are functioning at normal capacity, with many hospitals forced to close due to the inability to guarantee patient safety in the context of gang activity. This situation has put immense pressure on local health care systems, now struggling with medical emergencies and outbreaks, including more than 75,000 hospitalized cases of cholera as of January 2024. As a result, more than 3,000 women currently lack proper access to maternal health services.

The World Health Organization (WHO) indicated in 2016 that only 39% of births in Haiti take place in health care facilities that “reflect issues of access, quality and demand” and low rates of postpartum newborn care, with the nation having the highest rates of maternal mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean.  In this shifting political climate, mothers and children face even greater challenges in obtaining necessary services for optimal health outcomes.

Current Humanitarian Programs and Responses

Many humanitarian organizations have developed effective solutions to the many instabilities in Haiti but still lack the necessary funding to fulfill all their tasks completely. For example, the Pan American Health Organization supports Haiti’s Ministry of Health by delivering more than 38 tons of medical supplies and conducting more than 20,000 medical consultations. With only 5.6% of their required $22,250,000 to rebuild health care systems, they continue to seek international support to meet critical health needs, including blood transfusion supplies, oxygen and other essential medical equipment, alongside incentives for health care workers.

Simultaneously, “humanitarian aid must be safely distributed in line with the differentiated needs of women and girls,” states U.N. Women Executive Director Sima Bahous. U.N. Women has partnered with Rapha International to provide emergency support for women who have experienced gender-based violence, ranging from counseling, medical assistance and relocation to financial support. Women can connect with service providers, trained in both medical and psychological care, securely and anonymously without concern for external repercussions. So far, more than 2,000 women in Haiti have used this system and around 100 community leaders have received training to monitor and report cases of sexual abuse, implementing safety on a broader scale.

Re-Envisioning Mental Health Approaches

Many respondents of the U.N. Women Rapid Gender Assessment suggested that rapid surges of violence occurring throughout Haiti had negatively impacted their mental health. Dr. Yolle-Guida Dervil Pierre, a licensed therapist based in Florida, supports a group of 12 young girls in Jacmel, Haiti through the Divine Ministries of Haiti, providing weekly group meetings, emergency medical support and many of their basic needs including clothing, hygiene kits and school supplies. In her practice, she emphasizes the importance of building self-worth and promoting self-care amid the ongoing events in the nation, which she concludes has improved their mental health.

Dr. Yolle-Guida Dervil Pierre aligns her work with human trafficking prevention strategies, acknowledging the vulnerability of young girls in Haiti to traffickers who offer financial incentives for school tuition or food. She advocates creating small business opportunities for Haitian women, enabling them to gain vocational experience and build aspirations for the future. Her program allows donors to sponsor these girls, providing essential support such as paid tuition, weekly meals and comprehensive physical and emotional care during times of instability.

Looking Ahead

As Haiti continues to struggle with widespread violence and instability, the focus remains on restoring safety and access to essential services for its population. Strengthening health care facilities and addressing the specific needs of women and children could be key in moving forward. Ensuring adequate funding for humanitarian efforts and expanding community-based support systems are critical steps in rebuilding the nation’s resilience. International cooperation could play a vital role in helping Haiti recover and creating sustainable solutions for its future.

– Eileen Lincoln

Eileen is based in Oakton, VA, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

The WFP’s Efforts to Address Food Insecurity in North Korea

The WFP’s Efforts to Address Food Insecurity in North Korea North Korea has long struggled with food insecurity, a challenge that natural disasters, international sanctions and economic mismanagement have exacerbated. The World Food Programme (WFP) has been active in the country since 1995, playing a critical role in providing food assistance and fighting malnutrition. In recent years, however, the situation has become even more dire. WFP’s most recent efforts have focused on expanding support to the country’s most vulnerable populations. Indeed, food insecurity levels in North Korea have reached their highest point since the 1990s.

An Escalating Crisis

North Korea faces deep-rooted structural challenges in its agricultural sector, including a lack of arable land, inadequate access to modern agricultural technologies and persistent natural disasters. Droughts, floods and typhoons have devastated agricultural production in recent years. Even small-scale disasters have a disproportionate impact on the country’s food system, which is already fragile and prone to disruption. North Korea ranks 29th out of 191 countries in terms of its vulnerability to natural disasters.

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation. With borders closed and imports restricted, North Korea has been cut off from many of the external resources it once relied on, including agricultural inputs and food imports. The pandemic has also disrupted the domestic food distribution system, compounding the country’s food insecurity. Economic sanctions imposed by the United Nations (U.N.) further restrict North Korea’s access to international trade, exacerbating shortages of essential goods such as fertilizers, modern farming tools and food.

The WFP estimates that 10.7 million North Koreans—approximately 40% of the population—are undernourished. Many suffer from chronic malnutrition, which is particularly severe among children, pregnant women and nursing mothers. The country’s child malnutrition rate is alarming. In children under five, 18% suffer from stunted growth due to inadequate nutrition. These numbers highlight the urgent need for external food assistance.

Recent WFP Initiatives to Combat Hunger

In response to the worsening food crisis, the WFP has adapted and expanded its programs in North Korea. The organization’s recent focus has been on scaling up the delivery of specialized nutritious food, enhancing food production resilience and securing additional funding to meet the growing need.

  • Specialized Nutrition Programs. A key WFP strategy in North Korea is providing fortified foods to vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, nursing mothers and children. These fortified foods, which include enriched blended cereals and high-protein biscuits, are designed to combat malnutrition by supplying essential nutrients that are lacking in the North Korean diet. These products are rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals, which are crucial for children’s development and for improving maternal health. The WFP distributes these foods through nurseries, hospitals, pediatric wards and boarding schools. This ensures that the most at-risk individuals receive targeted nutrition support. Currently, the WFP’s food assistance reaches about one million people across North Korea, with a specific focus on reducing child malnutrition. By addressing the nutritional gaps in the population’s diet, the WFP is helping to alleviate both acute and chronic malnutrition. Local production of fortified foods is also supported through WFP’s partnerships with North Korean food factories, which helps maintain a consistent supply of these essential products.
  • Food Production Resilience. Alongside its nutrition-focused programs, the WFP has also been working to support North Korea’s agricultural production. The country’s farming system is highly vulnerable to climate-related shocks and recurrent natural disasters frequently damage crops and food infrastructure. The WFP aims to improve the resilience of local food production by providing technical assistance and resources to boost agricultural output. While international sanctions limit the scale of these interventions, the WFP has continued to seek ways to strengthen food production capacities in the country.
  • Recent Funding Initiatives. The growing food crisis in North Korea has prompted the WFP to call for a significant increase in funding for its food assistance programs. In early 2023, the WFP sought to triple its budget for North Korea. The organization warned that without additional resources, the country’s food insecurity could lead to a full-scale famine. According to the WFP, food insecurity levels are now the worst they have been since the 1990s, a period marked by widespread famine and mass starvation. The organization has stressed that without urgent action, millions of North Koreans will remain at risk of severe hunger.

The Impact of Sanctions and Border Closures

The WFP’s efforts in North Korea are complicated by the country’s political isolation and economic sanctions. U.N. sanctions, aimed at curbing North Korea’s nuclear weapons program, include restricting international trade and investment in the country. In particular, sanctions have limited North Korea’s ability to import essential agricultural inputs, such as fertilizers and modern farming equipment, which are necessary to boost local food production.

The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated the WFP’s work. North Korea implemented strict border closures to prevent the spread of the virus. These closures cut off the country from most external aid and imports, including food and medical supplies. Additionally, the closure of public institutions and restrictions on movement within the country disrupted the distribution of food and aid. This has made it even harder for the WFP to reach those in need.

The Road Ahead

Despite the WFP’s efforts, North Korea’s food crisis persists, with millions still suffering from malnutrition. The need for expanded food assistance is critical. However, sanctions, political isolation and the ongoing effects of the pandemic continue to limit the WFP’s operations in North Korea. The organization has consistently called for increased funding and international cooperation to overcome these ongoing challenges. However, the path forward is fraught with uncertainty.

– Sophia Lee

Sophia is based in Media, PA, USA and focuses on Good News, Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

, ,

Fragility and Rule of Law in Afghanistan: Women’s Rights at Risk

Fragility and Rule of Law in AfghanistanThe Taliban, an Islamic fundamentalist group, returned to power in 2021 after a 20-year insurgency. Following its ousting by a United States (U.S.)-led invasion in 2001, the group regrouped across the border in Pakistan. Within a decade they began reclaiming territory in Afghanistan. Since its return to power, the Taliban has severely threatened Afghan civil rights and liberties. The group has revived practices similar to its oppressive rule in the late 1990s. The United Nations (U.N.) mission in Afghanistan has reported numerous human rights violations. Journalists face intimidation, press freedoms have been sharply curtailed and several news organizations, including The Daily Afghanistan, have shut down. Additionally, the Taliban has reinstated the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, known for enforcing bans on activities deemed un-Islamic during its previous rule.

The Current State of Women’s Rights

Women’s rights in the region have been eradicated. According to Amnesty International, Afghanistan ranks last for women’s rights globally, positioned at 177 out of 177 countries on the Women’s Peace and Security Index for 2023/2024. It is the only country that restricts girls’ access to education beyond the sixth grade and prohibits women from working for nongovernmental organizations.

The Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has expanded its authority to control personal behavior and enforce punishments rigorously. This expansion is based on a 114-page document with 35 articles dictating nearly every aspect of life in Afghanistan. “We assure you that this Islamic law will greatly aid in promoting virtue and eliminating vice,” said ministry spokesman Maulvi Abdul Ghafar Farooq. The ministry’s enforcers have the authority to detain and fine law violators.

Article 13, focused on avoiding temptation, mandates that women must conceal their figures, cover their faces and refrain from making eye contact with men who are not family members. Article 15 prohibits women from traveling without a male guardian or interacting with unrelated men. Acting Minister Mohammad Khalid Hanafi emphasized that there would be “no compromise in the enforcement of Islamic laws.”

Fragility and Rule of Law in Afghanistan

The collapse of the previous government has led to a significant breakdown in legal protections for women: ​​

  • Replacement of Existing Laws. The Taliban has replaced the existing legal framework with its strict interpretation of Sharia law, abolishing many rights and protections that women previously enjoyed under the Afghan constitution and civil code.
  • Arbitrary Implementation. The new legal system often applies rules arbitrarily, lacking consistent application and due process. This unpredictability further undermines the rule of law and leaves women vulnerable to rights violations.
  • Limited Access to Justice. Under the new regime, women face severe limitations. Many formal legal institutions have ceased to function or now exclude women entirely. This effectively denies them any recourse to legal protection or dispute resolution.

International Responses

The U.N. has been at the forefront of condemning the Taliban’s actions and advocating for women’s rights in Afghanistan:

  • The U.N. Security Council Resolution 2681 (2023) called for the immediate removal of all restrictions violating the rights of Afghan women and girls. 
  • The U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has characterized the situation in Afghanistan as “gender apartheid.” The U.N. Special Rapporteur on Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, has called on the Taliban to release women human rights defenders and respect all human rights of women and girls.
  • Many countries have used diplomatic channels to express their concerns. The United Kindom (U.K.) The ambassador to the U.N. denounced the Taliban’s actions as “medieval misogyny above humanitarian need.” Multiple U.N. member states, including Albania, Ecuador, Malta and Spain, have characterized the situation as gender apartheid in U.N. Security Council sessions.

Legal and Policy Initiatives

Several legal and policy initiatives are being pursued to address the fragility of the rule of law in Afghanistan. 

  • Codifying Gender Apartheid: Efforts are underway to codify gender apartheid as a crime against humanity, potentially involving the International Criminal Court (ICC) in addressing systematic discrimination against women in Afghanistan. U.N. experts have called for investigations into the Taliban, holding them accountable for human rights violations based on gender, which amount to gender persecution.
  • Targeted Sanctions: Some nations are exploring the implementation of targeted sanctions against specific Taliban leaders responsible for rights violations. This approach aims to increase pressure on decision-makers within the Taliban regime. 
  • Humanitarian Aid Principles: Calls are intensifying for principled engagement in humanitarian aid. Furthermore, demands are being made for the Taliban to immediately lift the ban on Afghan women working for the U.N. and NGOs. There is also a push for supporting the full and safe participation of women in humanitarian decision-making and delivery, alongside increased support for humanitarian organizations, particularly those led by Afghan women.
  • Accountability Mechanisms: There are growing calls for accountability, a key feature in truly upholding the rule of law. Advocates demand that perpetrators of international human rights and humanitarian law violations face accountability. They emphasize the need to address gender persecution and other abuses targeting diverse women and girls.

Looking Ahead

The fragility of the rule of law in Afghanistan underscores the challenges of maintaining legal protections in unstable political environments. This situation highlights the need for robust international mechanisms to safeguard human rights and uphold the rule of law in fragile states.

– Hannah Ravariere-Moakes

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

Photo: Flickr

,

The UN Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program

The Early Childhood and Sustainable Development ProgramThe United Nations’ (U.N.) joint program, the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program, was a key part of the COVID-19 recovery plan, running from March 2020 to February 2022. With an investment of $2.6 million for more than 24 months, the program aimed to address significant challenges in early childhood care. The pandemic exacerbated existing disparities in access to early child care services across different regions and income levels in Argentina, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions to support the most vulnerable communities.

Overview

The goal and impact of the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program are noteworthy since it has worked toward breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty and inequalities for the most vulnerable groups: women, children, girls, people with disabilities, Indigenous groups and migrants. Promoting access to equitable childhood care services would provide an opportunity for children to get the proper intervention and education needed for their development, leading to a higher possibility of economic mobility. Additionally, child care services could allow parents to work or continue their education, enhancing the families’ economic stability.

In collaboration with the International Labor Organization (ILO), the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office (RCO), the United Nations Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (U.N. ECLAC), the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program has benefited 5.2 million children aged 0-6, including 2.7 million from low-income backgrounds. The program aimed to reduce inequality gaps through strategies such as policy enforcement, funding and training for child care workers.

Impact in Argentina

The program supported the Argentine government to initiate the national early childhood strategy (ENPI) at regional and national levels. The government’s ongoing commitment is anticipated to guarantee that child care services remain well-distributed and accessible across the country, even beyond the duration of the U.N.’s joint program.

Another initiative of the U.N.’s Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program in Argentina was the creation of the Federal Care Map. This tool collects and monitors data on child care services using geo-referenced information. It helps assess which regions require funding most urgently. It also ensures the effective allocation of resources, particularly for Indigenous children in rural areas.

Lastly, the Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program trained 3,000 early childhood education and service care workers across Argentina. The program provided tools to address the psychosocial effects and developmental issues in children caused by the pandemic. It also supported the implementation of a new curriculum that emphasizes child care centers as places of belonging, care and comfort.

Moving Forward

The U.N.’s Early Childhood and Sustainable Development Program in Argentina is a remarkable example of an effort to confront the root cause of continued poverty. It is anticipated that the long-lasting poverty can be overcome with national and sub-national efforts and active participation from the residents.

– Sein Kim

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

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

, ,

Peace as Precursor to Eradicating Poverty in Colombia

Peace as Precursor to Eradicating Poverty in ColombiaAfter Colombian voters rejected the Peace Agreement Referendum in 2016, billed as the final effort to establish lasting peace between the government and extremist gangs and guerrilla movements, several groups declared conditional ceasefires. These ceasefires have partially alleviated violence against civilian populations. Poverty in Colombia remains a pressing issue amid these challenges.

Impact of Conflict on Poverty and Infrastructure

By 2030, more than 60% of individuals experiencing extreme poverty will reside in fragile conflict zones. In these areas, violent conflicts harm people and destroy essential infrastructure, housing and food systems, potentially leading to severe human disasters. Such events consistently trigger significant regional economic disruptions that can lead to widespread unemployment and food crises. The United Nations (U.N.) emphasizes that peace is not merely a goal but a necessary precursor to development. Several relief organizations are actively responding to disasters stemming directly from conflicts, which underscores the vital role of peace in development.

Challenges in Peace Implementation

Peace development in areas lacking legitimate treaties to cease violence often remains under the control of local militia and military leaders. Colombia is actively implementing the initially failed treaty and, as of 2021, had completed 23% of the implementation process. Despite this, significant progress remains elusive; the budget proposed nearly 15 years ago is now considered insufficient, and efforts to advance rural land development have stalled.

Environmental and Agricultural Challenges

Colombia is facing a significant increase in desertification, a situation worsened by the country’s long-standing political violence. This has led to a considerable loss of essential forest land and has left rural farmland riddled with environmental and human hazards. A specific man-made danger involves the undocumented landmines scattered across the Colombian countryside. Research indicates that peace in Colombia has shielded rural civilians from becoming collateral victims of environmental warfare.

Beyond the impact of anonymous landmine placements and targeted violence by local militia groups against rural farmers, Colombian farmers have become significantly less productive. This decrease in productivity has led to rising food prices, further poverty in Colombia and increased urban contention. The situation has worsened as large numbers of rural Colombians have started migrating to cities and urban centers, seeking to escape the violence that pervades the countryside.

The Road to Peaceful Development

As peace has gradually taken hold, most plans for rural areas focus on repopulating the countryside and boosting agricultural production. The International Center for Tropical Agriculture has developed a policy to establish sustainable land use systems in rural Colombia, aiming to build a more sustainable agricultural sector. However, despite the implementation of several policies and programs to redevelop the land, violence against environmental activists increased between 2010 and 2019. This violence has disrupted environmental program implementation and indicated that unofficial violence in these areas persists.

Among the initiatives from the original 2016 agreements, implementing programs to rebuild the fragmented landscape of the Colombian countryside has proved challenging due to ongoing violence against activists from local factions. Colombia exemplifies why peace is essential for sustainable development; merely stopping violence is insufficient. Although the 2016 agreements mark a significant step forward, the implementation process—intended to rebuild in the wake of peace—is being obstructed by violence and targeted attacks on both civilians and activists.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to rebuild Colombia’s rural areas face significant challenges due to ongoing violence and threats against environmental activists. Despite the 2016 peace agreements, progress has been slow, with only 23% of the implementation process completed by 2021. Poverty in Colombia remains a pressing issue, exacerbated by the continued violence that hinders sustainable development, particularly in agriculture. This situation underscores the critical need for effective peacebuilding to achieve long-term stability and economic growth in the country.

– Jamie Sackett

Jamie is based in Hutto, TX, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

,

The DESFER Project: Empowering Women in the Sahel

The DESFER Project: Empowering Women in the SahelThe Sahel is a vast semi-arid region of Africa that separates the Sahara Desert from tropical savannas. It spans 10 countries, including Niger, Mali and Senegal and is a land of both opportunities and challenges. Political insecurity and environmental issues threaten the Sahel’s potential for rapid growth. Despite these challenges, the Sahel is one of the world’s youngest regions, with women making up approximately 50% of its population. Therefore, investing in female education and vocational training could bring significant economic prosperity. Additionally, the Sahel boasts the world’s highest solar energy production capacity, presenting substantial renewable energy potential. Consequently, the creation of the DESFERS project is a promising solution to help women achieve economic prosperity and gender equality across the Sahel.

The Situation for Women across the Sahel

Dr. Farkhonda Hassan, Chair of the United Nations (U.N.) Economic Commission for Africa’s Committee on Women and Development, points out that many poverty reduction strategies fail to address the disparities in income and power between men and women. She notes that the majority of African women still lack employment opportunities in trade, industry and government. Women across the Sahel experience the harsh effects of this gender inequality. They are more vulnerable to poverty, face significant barriers in accessing land, credit and formal employment and on average, have less time for productive activities due to the burden of domestic work.

The DESFERS Project

Plan International, a global children’s charity committed to creating a fairer world, focuses on building an equal world for girls. The organization has partnered with seven other entities, including ministries and national agencies for renewables, to launch a project that empowers women through renewable energy innovations. Introduced in 2018, the “Economic and Social Development of Women through Renewable Energies in the Sahel” project (DESFERS) actively confronts and addresses the social, cultural and economic inequalities that hinder the economic prosperity of women in the Sahel.

The project started by engaging women to articulate their social and economic needs. Plan International then focused on areas across the Sahara that offered the greatest potential for social and economic impact. Recognizing the critical role of sustainable energy and gender equality in development and economic growth, the European Union has contributed a €7.6 million grant to the DESFERS project.

Initially, the project concentrated on building individual skills such as reading, writing and math and introduced concepts about renewable energies and business. Subsequently, it provided more in-depth technical training focused on solar energy, particularly promoting women-led solar power businesses. The project also offers funding and training to help women launch micro-financial products in the sustainable energy sector. Furthermore, Plan International collaborates with ‘male champions’ who engage men in the community to help shift perspectives and address entrenched gender stereotypes.

Successful Sustainable Female Empowerment

The DESFERS project represents a new opportunity for women who were historically confined to traditional small business activities with minimal financial returns. This initiative merges the sustainable energy sector, specifically solar photovoltaic energy, with female empowerment. Crucially, the project positions women as prominent leaders catalyzing change within their communities. Women now manage the installation and maintenance of much of the new technology and capitalize on the business opportunities that the renewable energy sector presents. Since its inception, the project has supported 4,500 women-owned businesses in sustainable energy and trained 7,000 female entrepreneurs. Additionally, 21,000 women have received financing and the project has greatly enhanced women’s access to renewable energy.

Female Empowerment and Poverty

U.N. Women recognizes that gender equality is a significant and powerful catalyst for reducing poverty and increasing sustainable development. Ensuring equal access to opportunities enables societies to develop healthier and fairer economies. They have commended the shift toward renewable energy that promotes female empowerment. Alliance Sahel has observed that projects with a gender focus not only accelerate growth but also reduce gender and social inequalities. This enhances the economic and social resilience of the entire population, despite various challenges. It also notes a direct intergenerational benefit: projects centered on female empowerment yield long-term results. For example, empowered women tend to invest more in their children’s education and provide them with a more balanced diet, which contributes to building a stronger workforce for the future.

Looking Forward

Overall, the DESFERS project remains a significant success for women across the Sahel. Empowering women through renewable energy not only helps eradicate poverty but also breaks down entrenched gender inequalities prevalent throughout Senegal, Niger and Mali.

– Sian Ameer-Beg

Sian is based in Durham, UK and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr