Oxfam Hong Kong’s Post

💡 A study recently published by Oxfam shows how global inequality continues to increase dramatically. 💡 The wealth of the five richest people in the world has doubled since 2020, while almost five billion people have slipped further into poverty. The poorest 60% of humanity - around 4.77 billion people - have lost USD 20 billion in wealth since 2020. 💡 This growing global inequality also illustrates how "development aid" often does not benefit countries in the "global South", but rich donor countries and their corporations. 💡 The study shows that the power of companies worldwide is inexorably pushing into the public sector where vital services such as education, water and healthcare ae being commercialized, resulting in massive taxpayer-funded profits for global corporations. 💡 Basic services are now multi-billion euro industries and offer immense opportunities for profit maximisation. Leading players in development aid, such as The World Bank prioritise the privatisation of essential services over public funding. Public funds are being used to secure corporate profits rather than to protect basic human rights. 💡 The gap between rich and poor is widening as a result. People who cannot afford the costs are increasingly excluded from society and become impoverished, while those who can pay have access to high-quality healthcare and education. 💡 An example for that phenomenon can be found in the Dalit population group, who are at the bottom of the "social ladder" in India and face unaffordable fees in the private healthcare sector and financial exclusion in the private education sector. 💡 At knodel foundation we are therefore increasingly focusing on supporting local grassroots organisations. These initiatives often originate from people who are directly affected by the problems. Their organisations put the interests of the local population first and make decisive contributions to systemic change and thus combat social inequalities. 💡 Together with our local partners we are not in for short-term-improvements only, but also to create sustainable and tangible change. We achieve this by replacing existing global systems, such as Western-style school education or economic models geared towards cheap labour in less industrialized countries with locally relevant models and structures. #sinnfluencer #chancemaker #systemchange #changemaker #kf #oxfam #equality #poverty #corpotocracy #development #humaity #profit #planet #impactthatmatters Foto: Having fun with beautiful kids in rural Burkina Faso in 2018

Step by step, and with committed, consistent, and purposeful stakeholders, #poverty levels and #foodinsecurity can be eradicated in #Africa. Small Foundation's unwavering commitment to empowering women and supporting rural MSMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa is loud and clear in their 2023 Impact Report. Over the years, their consistent efforts have made a significant difference in uplifting communities and fostering economic growth. In this recent report, they highlight key initiatives that have empowered women entrepreneurs and strengthened the rural MSME ecosystem. By sharing the perspectives of their partners, the report gives insight into the overall scope and complementarity of their work supporting intermediaries, research, and ecosystem-building initiatives. "Since 2007 we have committed over €39M to our partners. Through supporting their work, we hope to achieve the vision of a thriving Africa free from extreme poverty." - Conor Brosnan, CEO & Chair. To learn more about Small Foundation's impactful work and explore their 2023 Impact Report, please visit https://lnkd.in/dekZRN-P

Off my standard topics, but an important question in my view—and kind of fits thoughts for a new year: **How to eradicate poverty effectively? What are the best measures?** We, a group of AIESEC Alumni International and AIESEC members are since years supporting microcredits as a group at Kiva (happy to share our group to AIESECers 1:1 if wanted). Recently, I had asked in our group if somebody has insight into whether such micro-loans are effective as I read about scientific research raising doubts. Fellow AIESECer Wolfgang reframed the question in a way to focus the "what is the best way to eradicate poverty" (thanks, this is the much better question indeed, supposing we agree on the goal of eradicating poverty which the two of us evidently do). Honestly, I do not have an answer. I am allergic to pushing something that is just "deemed good"—which is then most driven by the wish to have the feeling of doing good more than by a rational consideration of what actually helps. I would like to be sure it actually *is* good. I am happy to be in mission-driven networks that want to change the world for the better. In AIESEC (as alumnus) or beyond. By the way: In times like the current ones, AIESEC's mission "Peace and fulfilment of humankinds potential" is imporant as ever. The many great AIESECers I know see themselves as change agents pushing for that mission. That said, I would now like to tap into my broader network to gather insight: First, a general question: how could we address poverty and do so with good effect? How can we make the world more equitable? Plus, somewhat more concretely: Are microloans a good means (potentially amongst others)? Second, policy impact: Certainly, policy is important and a key issue in that regard is getting rid of corruption—irrespective of how well the stated goals align, a corrupt politician or official will never work in your goals (or poor people's ones), but rather for the own good (it might lead to the same outcome for single cases but never overall), thus I am also a supporting member of Transparency International's German branch, but there is more to policy. Third, our personal perspective: Where can we as individuals push the change? What do you deem is the right approach to reach such mission? Especially in the field of poverty?

It was my privilege to advocate on behalf of the most vulnerable children and families in the lead-up to the UN Summit of the Future. One of the events I spoke at focused on fostering economic and collective resilience in a fractured global financial landscape. We examined some of the global challenges that impact the most vulnerable people in the world and discussed actions that leaders can take to cultivate resilience and ensure equitable growth.   As Chief Field Operations Officer, overseeing World Vision’s field programming in 80+ countries, one of the most pressing challenges I see is the disconnect within the global financial system. Existing inequalities that impact the most vulnerable children become more pronounced when capital flows slow down.   Unequal distribution of resources that affect essential services for children, like healthcare, and increased dependency on short term external aid to resolve complex issues such as food insecurity and hunger are also challenges.   I believe that leaders must prioritise investments in children. Children are the foundation of any resilient society, and we risk perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality if we don’t support them. The good news is that World Vision’s research has identified that investing $1 is expected to return $10 in benefits through health, education and more.   I also believe that strengthening financial inclusion is essential to help vulnerable communities withstand economic shocks. World Vision’s microfinance (VisionFund International) programmes are an excellent example of how we can empower communities, especially women, to build economic resilience. For example, in Rwanda, VisionFund International’s microfinance programmes have enabled women to start businesses, lift their families out of poverty, and ensure their children can attend school. Expanding these initiatives, especially in rural areas, must be a priority for governments and international organisations.   We need strong global leadership to drive political momentum that trickles down into real change for vulnerable children. At this year’s UNGA, leaders can recommit to the Sustainable Development Goals and take concrete steps that benefit people living in deep poverty around the world. It is time for genuine accountability and action.    #UNGA #ENOUGH #IDA21 #future #innovation #creativity #entrepreneurship #SDG #economics #investing #sustainability #leadership #partnerships #worldvision #visionfund

Oxfam’s Response to the 2024 Policy Address Regarding the third Policy Address, Oxfam Hong Kong is pleased to note that the government has incorporated some recommendations previously presented by us. However, there remains significant room for improvement in addressing the issue of poverty. Ms Kalina Tsang, Director General of Oxfam Hong Kong said, “As the challenge of an ageing population intensifies, Oxfam Hong Kong welcomes the government's adoption of our earlier policy proposals aimed at activating the economically inactive workforce. We recommend that the government conduct a timely review of the effectiveness of its poverty alleviation policies to ensure that resources are fully utilised, aligning with the government's commitment to ‘Improve People's Livelihood in Pursuit of Happiness’.”  Our key response area on policy address: - Develop a Poverty Alleviation Framework - Promote Enabling and Active Ageing for Elderly -Unleash Economically Inactive Women’s Workforce Participation -Launch Dedicated Rehousing Estates Projects to Eliminate Substandard Sub-divided Units -Support Ethnic Minorities HK01 Article: https://lnkd.in/gWrbFV3M (施政報告2024｜樂施會：樂見部份建議獲採納　貧窮問題有改善空間) Full response from Oxfam Hong Kong: https://lnkd.in/gCHqPviK Donate Now: https://bit.ly/3YbcoBD wong shek hung #OxfamHongKong #樂施會 #policyaddress #WorldWithoutPoverty

Month 2️⃣ at the Borgen Project completed! What did I Learn? As I draw close on my second month being a Political Affairs Intern with the Borgen Project, I would love to share my thoughts and experiences this month! ⭐️ The positive (and negative) impact social media has on advocacy of humanitarian issues. Whilst social media has the ability to reach an unconventional audience through algorithms, allowing a firsthand exposure to the realities of government actions and wars. Whilst this can be an incredible tool for charities and NGOS, political misinformation poses a danger for this because of the lack of factual checking and “freedom of information” we have in the western world. ⭐️ United Nations: a strength or skeptical? There’s no denying that the work of the United Nations is of profound positive impact, with their multilateralism achieving what many countries failed to accomplish. This can be easily seen through their work in reducing global poverty, with the Division of Social Policy and development (DSPD) being one of the most successful divisions within the UN. Despite that,there are alot of flaws of the UN. The biggest coming from the ICJ which in its 78 year history, has only ever had 11 convictions. Realists argue that the inability for the UN to achieve collective security questions the whole purpose of the UN. ⭐️ When talking about Global Poverty, it’s important to understand how poverty is measured. The World Bank measures poverty based on household income through all paying individuals. The international poverty line is set at $2.15 per person per day using 2017 prices. This means that anyone living on less than $2.15 a day is in extreme poverty. Poverty is a subjective measure, country to country, but often the outcomes are very similar regardless of demography or geographical locations.

Approaches to Ending Poverty: Spotlight on Young African Leaders In our ongoing series, we are sharing how young leaders are spearheading efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), today we shine a light on initiatives that target poverty reduction. Across Africa, young people are transforming their communities by addressing the root causes of poverty with sustainable and scalable solutions. From tech startups that connect small farmers to global markets, to apps that improve access to financial services for the unbanked, these young leaders are not just dreaming of a better future—they are creating it. Success Stories to Inspire - AgriTech Innovations: Consider the work of Onesphore Birhaheka empowers small-scale farmers (women) in rural areas of South Kivu, Uvira territory, Lemera through AGRIMOD SARL in Democratic Republic of the Congo. More about his work here 👇🏿 https://lnkd.in/dW56nMp3 - Educational Initiatives: Peter Kwadwo Asare Nyarko from Ghana leads the @Center for Financial Literacy Education Africa that offers financial literacy and financial education to people equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in today's economy. More of his work here 👇🏿 https://lnkd.in/dGDB-ab7 Gabriella Mapis, a volunteer with Naza Agape Foundation shares with us how she enjoys volunteering to alleviate poverty among Nigerians. She's active in projects that empowers people through skills acquisition, provision of scholarships and relief materials for communities affected by crisis. She finds it rewarding as it puts smiles on people's faces, knowing they have been given a better chance in life. She shared that truly, we have Nigerians living below the poverty line, thus there's real poverty in Nigeria but it doesn't mean we don't have the good side of Nigeria. Her advice to a young person interested in SDG 1 is to be passionate, creative and fundraise with transparency and be accountable. Join the Conversation 🗣 How can we further support such young leaders and scale up their initiatives to have a wider impact on poverty? What innovative solutions can you imagine that might contribute to eradicating poverty in your community? Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas using the hashtags #EndPoverty #SDG1. Stay tuned for more insights as we continue to highlight how young Africans are leading the charge towards a sustainable future. #MomentswithDrWeyoms

🌍 Join Us for the 15th Jubilee Poverty and Social Protection Conference! 🌍 Taking place from March 9-11, 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, this special edition of PSPC2025 will bring together professionals, policymakers, and researchers from across the globe to explore the most pressing challenges in the fight against poverty. 🔑 Key Areas of Focus: Social Protection Policies & Practices Poverty Reduction Strategies Gender, Inequality, and Empowerment Healthcare Access for Vulnerable Populations Economic Development & Sustainability 👥 Engage in Critical Conversations – PSPC2025 is a unique platform where academic, non-profit, government, and private sectors collaborate to create impactful solutions that address the systemic issues of poverty worldwide. 🌏 Global Reach – With participants from over 30 countries, PSPC2025 brings together diverse voices to tackle global challenges with a localized perspective. This gathering is your chance to network with leading experts in the field and build partnerships that transcend borders. 🎟️ Early Bird Special – Submit your application by October 15th, 2024 to benefit from our Early Bird Special and secure your place at this important global event. 💬 Why PSPC? – Many of our participants return year after year, building not just professional networks, but lasting friendships. Experience for yourself the collaborative spirit and global community PSPC has cultivated over the last 15 years. 🔗 Apply now at www.pspconference.org and join the conversation on poverty and social protection. #PSPC2025 #PSPConference #InternationalConference2025 #PovertyConference #SocialProtection #GlobalDevelopment #ThailandConference #EarlyBirdSpecial #InclusiveDevelopment #SustainableSolutions #Empowerment #GlobalCommunity #JubileeConference #TomorrowPeopleOrganization

Ending Social and Institutional Maltreatment: Acting Together for Just, Peaceful, and Inclusive Societies Poverty has many dimensions, some visible, others hidden. On United Nations International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, I am highlighting a crucial but often overlooked aspect: social and institutional maltreatment. Social maltreatment fosters institutional discrimination through mistrust, disrespect, and policies that deny fundamental rights like healthcare, education, housing, and legal identity. Too often, these institutions reinforce these injustices instead of challenging them, further excluding those in poverty. Extreme poverty is defined as living on less than $2.15 per day (2017 purchasing power parity). By the end of 2022, 8.4% of the global population—around 670 million people—were projected to be in extreme poverty, with an estimated 7%—or 575 million people—still likely to be trapped by 2030. In response to the cost-of-living crisis, 105 countries and territories introduced nearly 350 social protection measures between February 2022 and February 2023. During #UNGA79 in September, and in previous years, I have engaged with several opportunities, particularly with leaders from The ONE Campaign, to further a meaningful understanding of poverty and how different forms of violence and domination interact to affect people living in poverty, while exploring ways to collectively advance #SDG16 for just, peaceful, and inclusive societies. ONE fights for a more just world by demanding investments that create economic opportunities and healthier lives in Africa, empowering all people to use their voices for change because none of us are equal until all of us are equal. As the 32nd Commemoration of #IDEP2024 is marked at the #ECOSOC Chamber today, The Wellbeing Foundation Africa, endorses the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, UNESC Togo- UN ECOSOC World Social Report 2024 - Social Development in Times of Converging Crises: A Call for Global Action, frontline programming remains committed to caring, educating the public, mobilising political will and resources to address global challenges, and celebrating progress toward #SDG1, ending poverty in all its forms. #EndPoverty #TogetherAgainstPoverty #WellbeingForAll

The road from the MDGs to the SDGs What were the MDGs? In September 2000, the UN General Assembly adopted the United Nations Millennium Declaration at the UN Millennium Summit. The Declaration, which called for a global partnership to reduce extreme poverty, was the first ever global strategy with quantifiable targets to be agreed upon by all UN member states and the world’s leading development institutions. Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan established eight accompanying objectives to support the Declaration. These objectives (listed below) were set with a deadline of 2015 and became known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Were the MDGs successful? The effectiveness of the MDGs has been the subject of considerable debate. Supporters argue that the development agenda promoted by the MDGs has spearheaded an unprecedented international movement against extreme poverty, reducing it by more than 50 percent globally. Before their enactment, individual campaigns aimed at the thematic areas within the MDGs – such as eliminating income poverty and promoting literacy – were already underway. Still, before the MDGs they had not been conceived as a coherent catalog of goals at the global level. Critics, on the other hand, note that progress on the specific targets set out by the MDGs has been both regionally and thematically unbalanced. This is because many countries adopted a “piecemeal approach”, choosing to engage with some but not all of the MDGs. This has been attributed to the fact that the MDGs only applied to countries of the global South and that they had collectively played a minimal role in their design. Consequently, the MDGs were perceived by several critics as a platform that was imposed on the developing countries by the more developed ones. What makes the SDGs different? In sharp contrast to the MDGs, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are uniformly applicable to all countries of the world, removing the “developing” versus “developed” dichotomy that left the MDGs open to criticism. And while there are similarities regarding the format of the MDGs and the SDGs – e.g. each framed the international development agenda for 15 years – the SDGs have significantly expanded on the scale and content of the MDGs. The SDGs are focused on global development and sustainability and demonstrate an understanding that the environment is not an add-on or in opposition to sustainable development, but rather the base that underpins all other goals. As a result, whereas the MDGs maintained a retrospectively narrow focus on poverty reduction, the SDGs include new themes that reflect an approach that sees the environment, economy, and society as embedded systems rather than separate competing “pillars”: e.g. urban areas, water and sanitation, energy, and climate change are all prominently featured.