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Partnering for Poverty Relief Essay

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Partnering for Relief:
Poverty is a persisting, global issue. It not only affects people in developing or “poor” countries, but can also be found in developed nations such as the US. Although it is true that poverty in the US is different from poverty experienced by people in (i.e.) the Republic of Congo, Afghanistan, or Guinea, experiences of hunger and despair may be shared. With this in mind, the issue of poverty may be one of definition. Actually, what is poverty? Is it the state of being extremely poor, of living on less than $2.50 a day? Of not having adequate access to clean drinking water or electricity; suffering from malnutrition and hunger; lacking access to adequate healthcare and/or vaccinations; and the absence of basic …show more content…

Ranging from the UN World Food Program to Oxfam, initiatives aim at improving conditions for those trapped in poverty, alleviating hunger and malnourishment, as well as enable individuals to become self-sustainable. Some of the programs and assistance provided to countries is not without drawbacks and criticisms. For instance, World Bank and IMF development assistance has been accused of interfering with countries’ ability to manage affairs sovereignly (e.g. conditions attached to the receipt of aid). Likewise, US AID assistance comes with foreign policy attachments that may not always be appreciated. Furthermore, even though NGOs are becoming more mindful of local conditions and cultures, they inadvertently promote western perceptions concerning human rights and values. Yet, despite differences in goals, approaches, and other aspects at appears reasonable to expect sustained, cooperative efforts to reduce poverty. The cynic may argue that nations pursue self-serving goals and aim to distract citizens from internal problems, while NGOs’ involvement justifies their existence…
In contrast to international organizations and NGOs commitment and cooperation to confront poverty in developing nations, much fewer initiatives are aimed at poverty in developed countries. One may argue that nations such as the US and Europe are expected to address these issues themselves. One may even contend that they should be able to handle them, after all

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