global+poverty+reflections

The most important things I’ve learned about global poverty: “We’re a global community and the actions of the developed countries affect the lives of third world persons. To help we need to take into consideration the culture and religion as well as sustainability. The millennium goals should be considered seriously by developed countries.” “Some causes are corruption, weak government, natural disasters or genocides. Economic factors are important with a vast gap between the population who lives on a dollar a day to those who live in the Western countries. Many solutions are needed to fight global poverty, education and sustainability are key.” “The world is an international community meaning we are all connected and that policies in one country will affect people in another. Concepts such as philanthropy that we assume is beneficial is not always effective in helping people. Trust and accountability and involving local citizens in the process are important as is sustainability.” “Global poverty affects women and children deeply.” “At the core of the issue, can be government or lack thereof. Outside a coming in with a plan of change, must truly consider the long term effects on the people, culture and economy. Health is a huge issue that requires everything from getting the supplies and aid, transporting it, getting people’s trust to take it and continue using it. Most medical aid is only a band-aid on a huge wound.”
 * BCDS History: Social Change. Reflections from class Jan. 2009 **

“In areas where there is extreme poverty, there are higher rates of crime, disease, lack of education and jobs.” “It is most important to treat the cause rather than the direct affect. For example, don’t just treat malaria, but to get out nets to prevent it from happening. Education is priceless that people must learn how to pass on education and training to their neighbors. To implement change, it is important to have people who are trusted.” “I look at places that are not fair trade with different eyes.” “In many cultures women are still marginalized and do not have the authority to control their lives. They have no power to enact change. I’m disappointed by the failed aid measures by wealthy countries.”