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2. Designing Sustainable Water Supply Systems in Tajikistan: A step-by-step guide to design, construction and ownership
- Author:
- Orkhan Ali
- Publication Date:
- 05-2022
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Tajikistan is often described as the poorest country in Central Asia, with GDP per capita consistently lower than any of its regional neighbours. Its water and sanitation infrastructure is severely dilapidated, suffering from decades of underinvestment and the failure to address widespread damage suffered during the country’s civil war (1992–1997). Efforts to ensure everyone has improved access to adequate water and sanitation services are characterised by contradictory legislation and blurred responsibilities between state agencies. Reform of the sector and roll-out of improved infrastructure have been slow, requiring strong accountability mechanisms to ensure that the rights of the most vulnerable people are adequately protected. Oxfam’s water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) programme s therefore based on a theory of change that aims to improve the health status of Tajikistan’s population through the delivery of long-lasting WASH services, while addressing market systems and strengthening institutions.
- Topic:
- Development, Water, Infrastructure, and Sustainability
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
3. Sanitation Marketing in Tajikistan: Business model for sustainable WASH market development
- Author:
- Orkhan Ali
- Publication Date:
- 05-2022
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) remains a critical problem in Tajikistan, particularly for its rural areas. In terms of sanitation and the market within which it operates locally, there have been no sectoral tools on market-based WASH programming in Tajikistan, and therefore little available guidance around the facilitation of better interactions between the demand and supply of sanitation products. And while specified state departments are responsible for applying and upholding sanitation standards, in practice they continue to rely on guidelines from Soviet times, and rarely carry out household-level inspections – hence the legal frameworks governing sanitation should be revised accordingly. To fill this gap, Oxfam launched its first sanitation marketing programme in 2018 (as part of its wider Tajikistan Water Supply and Sanitation (TajWSS) Project funded by the Swiss Government) and played a market broker role that transformed the relationship between buyers and sellers of sanitation products. The project approached the process by influencing both supply and demand sides, and by designing affordable and desirable trading processes for rural households to meet their sanitation needs.
- Topic:
- Development, Infrastructure, Sanitation, Public Health, and Sustainability
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
4. Decentralised Sanitation Solutions in Tajikistan: Decentralised wastewater treatment systems (DEWATS) in peri-urban and urban areas in Tajikistan
- Author:
- Orkhan Ali
- Publication Date:
- 05-2022
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- An important milestone for the sanitation sector was the adoption by the UN of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets 6.2 (safely managed sanitation and hygiene services) and 6.3 (reducing the portion of untreated wastewater), which focus on managing the entire sanitation service chain. Tajikistan has been at the forefront of promoting these at global level. Meanwhile, the fourth initiative of the President of Tajikistan on the International Decade for Action on Water for Sustainable Development, 2018–20281 is being implemented at national level. Over the past decade, sanitation has been given low priority within the focus areas of water sector reform. For example, not all aspects of regulations have been duly revised to adopt new technologies. In addition, many regulations for wastewater treatment remain outdated and pose legal constraints for testing new approaches in the country. The Tajikistan Water Supply and Sanitation (TajWSS) (Phase III) project piloted a decentralised wastewater treatment system (DEWATS) in the peri-urban Rudaki district in Tajikistan with two hospitals with the aim of scaling up to national level. This learning paper showcases the project findings, assessments and lessons learned in application of the DEWATS.
- Topic:
- Development, Infrastructure, Sanitation, Public Health, and Hygiene
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
5. Water Governance and Sustainable Service Delivery in Rural Tajikistan: How regulations and accountability measures improve water supply service deliver
- Author:
- Orkhan Ali
- Publication Date:
- 05-2022
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Ensuring equitable and sustainable access to safe water continues to be one of the most pressing issues in Tajikistan, despite the country having abundant water resources. The still low coverage of the population with access to drinking water has been attributed to cross-cutting governance problems such as the relationship between the state and other social actors, poor water management and coordination, and systemic challenges such as low capacity. In the past decade, a demand-driven approach has become a widespread policy trend in Tajikistan and community-led management is seen as the main attribute for achieving effective water governance. The transfer of responsibility to local government and users is intended to promote local governance as a means of ensuring equitable access and sustainable use of water through users’ participation in water-related decision making and service delivery. Under a demand-driven model applied by the TajWSS project, users take more responsibility before, during and after WS system installation. The model assumes that water users have the necessary information and capacity to carry out the delegated duties and obligations and this automatically translates into equitable access and sustainable use of safe water. Yet despite improvements in access to safe water in rural Tajikistan, O&M and lack of governmental support are still great challenges.
- Topic:
- Water, Infrastructure, Governance, and Accountability
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
6. The Value-Added Tax (VAT) Improvement Program: Raising the operational efficacy of the VAT administration in Bangladesh
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 05-2022
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Bangladesh has a weak and inequitable tax system. Over the past 15 years, the government of Bangladesh (GoB) has relied on the regressive value-added tax (VAT) for more than a third of all revenues, with little progress towards strengthening direct taxation of high net-worth individuals and large corporations. From 2015–2021, the World Bank’s VAT Improvement Program (VIP) assisted the Bangladesh National Board of Revenue in improving VAT administration. VIP helped speed up automation and increase revenues. But the program did not include any objectives to improve VAT equity and fairness, and it also fell short on improving transparency and taxpayer satisfaction. To address VAT’s regressive nature and its impact on low income households, the GoB needs to improve coverage of social protection programmes. Bangladesh and its external partners should focus on strengthening progressive direct taxation. Meanwhile, the government must end gender-blind VAT administration and recognize that VAT negatively affects low income female entrepreneurs and consumers.
- Topic:
- Inequality, Tax Systems, Social Order, and Gender
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh and Asia
7. Asia’s Extreme Inequality Crisis: Building back fairer after COVID-19
- Author:
- Matthew Martin
- Publication Date:
- 09-2022
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- COVID-19 has exacerbated Asia’s crisis of extreme inequality. This is undermining growth and preventing poverty eradication. Asian governments have done almost nothing to combat this rise in inequality and are constrained in their policy choices as debt burdens grow and post-COVID austerity begins. A few Asian governments have done a lot to fight inequality during COVID-19 through equitable public services, progressive taxation and enhanced labour rights, especially for women, but most have not. This paper lays out a comprehensive set of measures that Asian governments, the Asian Development Bank and the international community could use to significantly reduce inequality, eradicate poverty and accelerate growth in Asia.
- Topic:
- Poverty, Governance, Pandemic, COVID-19, Banking, and Equality
- Political Geography:
- Asia
8. Climate finance in Asia: Assessing the state of climate finance in one of the world’s most climate vulnerable regions
- Author:
- Christopher Roy
- Publication Date:
- 11-2022
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Asia is particularly vulnerable to climate hazards including extreme temperatures, flooding, droughts, cyclones, and sea level rise. The most vulnerable communities need financial support to help adapt to the climate crisis – they cannot do so alone. Developed countries have promised $100 bn in climate finance to developing countries every year until 2025. This promise has not been met. Asian countries have outlined the support they require and delivering on these needs is integral to bringing climate justice to those most vulnerable to – yet least responsible for – the climate crisis. We find that the climate finance provided to Asia is woefully inadequate to support the necessary adaptation actions and vulnerable communities are suffering as a result.
- Topic:
- Climate Change, Environment, Finance, and Climate Finance
- Political Geography:
- Asia
9. Precarity and the Pandemic: A survey of wage issues and Covid-19 impacts amongst migrant seafood workers in Thailand
- Author:
- Josh Stride
- Publication Date:
- 07-2021
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This report presents findings from an extensive survey of migrant workers in the Thai seafood industry conducted by the CSO Coalition. The report focuses on the issue of low wages, the gender pay gap and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on these issues and the workers who experience them. It also aims to develop a national discussion around the issues of a living wage and a decent living for the hardworking migrant workers who generate wealth and produce food for wealthy companies and consumers around the world.
- Topic:
- Labor Issues, Labor Policies, Pandemic, and COVID-19
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Thailand
10. The World Bank in Asia: An assessment of COVID-19-related investments through a care lens. Care-responsive investments and development finance
- Author:
- Bist Joshi and Dharmistha Chauhan
- Publication Date:
- 12-2021
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- International financial institutions (IFIs) have been playing a vital role in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic and will play an equally important role in the recovery and ‘build back anew’ agenda. This is particularly true of the World Bank Group (WBG), given its high volumes of committed investments across sectors, especially in low-income and vulnerable countries. This report presents, through case studies, how care-responsive the World Bank’s COVID-19-related investments have been in four member countries: Bangladesh, Cambodia, Nepal and the Philippines. It does so by using the Care Principles and Care-Responsiveness Barometer for IFIs to assess the nature of the WBG’s COVID-19 investments in these select countries, and by building evidence through a gender- and care-responsive budget review. The report demonstrates that the Bank has a foundation for care-inclusion upon which to build, and urges it to adopt a more comprehensive care-responsive approach to its operations in order to move towards rebuilding a more gender-just and equal future.
- Topic:
- World Bank, Finance, Investment, Pandemic, and COVID-19
- Political Geography:
- Asia
11. Money Talks: A Synthesis Report Assessing Humanitarian Funding Flows to Local Actors in Bangladesh and Uganda
- Author:
- Anita Kattakuzhy and Chloe Parrish
- Publication Date:
- 03-2018
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- International humanitarian agencies and donors have made a series of global commitments to local actors as part of the localization agenda, including to increase their access to greater direct funding by 2020. This briefing paper reviews 2015 national financial data for Bangladesh and Uganda to better understand how to target international investments in localization. It presents key findings from Oxfam-commissioned research on which factors affect local actors’ ability to access international humanitarian funding. It concludes that in order for global commitments to translate into practice, investments should look at changing the terms of the funding relationship, as well as be based on a context-specific, national analysis of the financial environment.
- Topic:
- Climate Change, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian Aid, Refugee Crisis, and Displacement
- Political Geography:
- Uganda, Bangladesh, Africa, and Asia
12. Displaced and Dispossessed: Conflict-Affected Communities and Their Land of Origin in Kachin State, Myanmar
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 05-2018
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- People displaced by conflict (IDPs) in Myanmar’s Kachin State want to return to their land, yet it is being appropriated unfairly. Legal or administrative procedures are undermining IDP rights, ignoring the exceptional circumstances of displacement. Restrictions on movement are making the situation worse. Action is required to resolve the lack of clarity over IDP land rights and to ensure equitable remedy is available where land has been unfairly acquired. This report is produced by The Durable Peace Programme (DPP), an EU-funded consortium of seven international and local organizations supporting peace, reconciliation, rehabilitation and development in Kachin State since 2015.
- Topic:
- Displacement, Conflict, Peace, Humanitarian Crisis, and Internal Displacement
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Myanmar
13. Supermarket Responsibilities for Supply Chain Workers’ Rights: Continuing challenges in seafood supply chains and the case for stronger supermarket action
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 06-2018
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- International food supply chains provide employment for tens of millions of women and men around the world, demonstrating the potential for private sector actors to fight poverty and inequality. Yet far too many work in appalling conditions. The ongoing challenges in seafood supply chains are illustrative of the problems that can arise and the need for stakeholders to tackle their root causes. This is one of a series of in-depth studies to supplement Oxfam’s global campaign report, Ripe for Change: Ending human suffering in supermarket supply chains. This report assesses recent progress in realizing workers’ rights in seafood supply chains originating in Southeast Asia; provides new evidence of ongoing workers’ rights challenges in US and European supermarket shrimp supply chains beginning in Indonesia and Thailand; and explores the need, in particular, to address the buyer power of supermarkets and other lead firms to squeeze value from their suppliers.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Food, Private Sector, Farming, Labor Rights, and Supply Chains
- Political Geography:
- Europe, Indonesia, Asia, North America, Thailand, United States of America, and Indo-Pacific
14. Empowering Women Through the Mentorship Programme: The case of the Fisherfolk Enterprise
- Author:
- Mark Vincent Aranas
- Publication Date:
- 06-2018
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- In many communities in Southeast Asia, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are crucial drivers of local development and growth. They can play a key role in improving the livelihoods of smallholders, especially women. However, SMEs often do not survive because of the challenges they face in accessing finance and developing logistics and management systems.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Gender Issues, Women, Fishing, and Empowerment
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Southeast Asia
15. Rapid Care Analysis in a Rapid-Onset Emergency: Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
- Author:
- Iulia Toma
- Publication Date:
- 06-2018
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This analysis looks at unpaid care work patterns in both Rohingya and host communities in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. The aim is to recognize the care work done by women and find ways of reducing or redistributing this work. The analysis examines the level of acceptance for sharing care responsibilities, as well as the differences in care work between host and Rohingya communities. Overall, findings from the RCA show that the vast majority of care work is conducted by women across both groups. On average, women perform 70 hours of care work a week and men do 11 hours, with firewood and water collection being the most difficult tasks. Recommendations from the analysis include provision of water containers for water storage; opportunities for home-based income-generating activities for the Rohingya community; advocacy for improved water networks in the host community; and environmentally friendly firewood replacements, among others. This will ensure reduction and redistribution of care work and lead to improved programmes, with potential for women’s empowerment.
- Topic:
- Refugee Crisis, Gender Based Violence, Displacement, Sustainability, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh and Asia
16. Rohingya Refugee Response Gender Analysis: Recognizing and Responding to Gender Inequalities
- Author:
- Mita Chowdhury, Nina Gora, Mushfika Laiju, Nicola Padamada, and Iulia Toma
- Publication Date:
- 08-2018
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Since August 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have fled Myanmar for camps in the Cox's Bazar district of Bangladesh. The research for this report was conducted to identify the needs, vulnerabilities, risks and concerns of Rohingya refugee and host community women, girls, men and boys in Cox's Bazar, as well as the skills and opportunities on which they can build. The analysis shows various gaps in the humanitarian response for both communities, especially in terms of accountability, communication with affected communities and disaster preparedness, but also in equitable access to services, in particular for women and girls, and especially for the Rohingya community. The report presents a range of recommendations for agencies responding to the crisis, including on water, sanitation and hygiene; menstrual hygiene management; food security and nutrition; livelihoods; gender-based violence; community and household power structures; women's and girls' leadership; unpaid care work; coping strategies; and community cohesion, among others.
- Topic:
- Gender Issues, Refugee Crisis, Displacement, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh, Asia, and Myanmar
17. Influencing Tax Policy Reform in Vietnam: The case of Decree 20
- Author:
- Nora Honkaniemi and Doung Vu Houng
- Publication Date:
- 08-2018
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This case study demonstrates how change took place in Vietnam as a result of CSO action to address tax policy reform. Oxfam worked with a range of partners to campaign for greater transparency requirements in the tax affairs of multinational companies (MNCs). This resulted in the government introducing new regulations requiring MNCs to file country-by-country tax reports, helping to strengthen tax transparency and tackle tax avoidance in Vietnam.
- Topic:
- Reform, Tax Systems, Transparency, and Domestic Policy
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Vietnam
18. The Future of Business: Shaping Inclusive Growth in South-East Asia
- Author:
- Shubert Ciencia and Alex Maitland
- Publication Date:
- 09-2018
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- South-East Asia has seen remarkable economic growth over recent decades but also faces serious challenges, especially growing levels of inequality. Solutions are emerging, and the region’s leaders have agreed that inclusive growth is the way forward. Inclusive economies need inclusive businesses. Although at an early stage, we’re witnessing the potential for business to deliver the solutions. This discussion paper reviews the issues faced in the region, how business can be part of the solution through a spectrum of approaches, ways in which social enterprise models can be supported to thrive, and makes recommendations for the region’s businesses.
- Topic:
- Economics, Regional Cooperation, Innovation, and Inclusion
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Southeast Asia
19. One Year On: Time to Put Women and Girls at the Heart of the Rohingya Response
- Author:
- Dorothy Sang
- Publication Date:
- 09-2018
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Beginning on 25 August 2017, over 700,000 Rohingya refugees fled from Myanmar to Bangladesh seeking safety and lifesaving assistance. While safe from the violence they were subjected to in Myanmar, Rohingya women continue to face huge protection risks and challenges in Bangladesh. This briefing paper looks at how the humanitarian response, one year on, is meeting the specific needs of women and girls and what more can and should be done so that women and girls can access services, voice their concerns and hopes for the future and influence the decisions that affect their lives.
- Topic:
- Gender Issues, Migration, Water, Minorities, Refugees, Displacement, Humanitarian Crisis, and Hygiene
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh, Asia, and Myanmar
20. Towards a More Equal Indonesia: How the government can take action to close the gap between the richest and the rest
- Author:
- Luke Gibson
- Publication Date:
- 02-2017
- Content Type:
- Commentary and Analysis
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The gap between the richest and the rest in Indonesia has grown faster in the past two decades than in any other country in South-East Asia. The four richest men in Indonesia now have more wealth than the poorest 100 million people. Inequality is slowing down poverty reduction, dampening economic growth and threatening social cohesion. President Jokowi has made fighting inequality his administration's top priority for 2017. This report shows how he could achieve this by enforcing a living wage for all workers, increasing spending on public services, and making big corporations and rich individuals pay their fair share of tax.
- Topic:
- Inequality, Economic Inequality, Social Cohesion, and Elites
- Political Geography:
- Indonesia, Asia, and Southeast Asia
21. Women’s Empowerment in Armenia: Impact Evaluation of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Project in Rural Communities in Vayots Dzor region
- Author:
- Simone Lombardini
- Publication Date:
- 03-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This evaluation is presented as part of the Effectiveness Review Series 2015/16, selected for review under the women’s empowerment thematic area. The evaluation took place in November 2015 in Vayots Dzor region – Armenia. It intended to evaluate the success of the ‘Women’s economic empowerment in rural communities of Vayots Dzor region’ project in achieving its objectives: increasing household income (by promoting agriculture/horticulture and agribusiness) and promoting women’s economic empowerment.
- Topic:
- Gender Issues, Economic Growth, Feminism, and Rural
- Political Geography:
- Asia, Armenia, and West Asia
22. The Reality of the EU-Turkey Statement: How Greece has Become a Testing Ground for Policies that Erode Protection for Refugees
- Author:
- Ashleigh Lovertt, Renata Rendon, and Claire Whelan
- Publication Date:
- 03-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- One year ago, European states closed their borders along the Western Balkan route and EU leaders put in place the EU-Turkey Statement, a so-called temporary measure to stop irregular migration to Europe. Now EU leaders are declaring their approach a success. The International Rescue Committee (IRC), the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and Oxfam are providing humanitarian response on the Greek islands and mainland, and as their experience clearly shows, the context on the ground is far more troubling and complex. Beyond the deeply concerning situation in Greece, the EU is looking to replicate the EU-Turkey Statement model elsewhere, and in so doing, risks setting a dangerous precedent for the rest of the world. The EU has a proud history of commitment to international law and human rights which has driven its policies for 60 years. This joint agency paper argues that now is the time for Europe to show global leadership on migration by adopting policies that uphold these values, rather than triggering a race to the bottom.
- Topic:
- Regional Cooperation, European Union, Refugee Crisis, Borders, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- Europe, Turkey, and Asia
23. One Year Stranded and What’s Changed? An Update to the October 2016 Joint NGO Policy Brief on the Situation for Displaced Persons in Greece
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 03-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- It is one year since the introduction of Europe’s flawed migration policies to close borders along the Western Balkan route and return migrants and refugees to Turkey, leaving thousands stranded in Greece. This update provides an overview of the current situation in Greece, and sets out what eight national and international responding agencies see as the most urgent issues to address and the major concerns with Europe’s response to this crisis.
- Topic:
- Regional Cooperation, Refugee Crisis, Borders, and NGOs
- Political Geography:
- Europe, Turkey, Greece, Asia, and Balkans
24. Social Accountability in Tajikistan: Enchancing Trust Between Communities and Water Service Providers
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 03-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Tajikistan was one of the first countries that signed up for the Global Partnership for Social Accountability (GPSA). Oxfam’s strategy on social accountability in the country focuses in three aspects: constructive engagement, enhancing trust through the Community Advisory Boards (CABs), and promoting women’s engagement. The programme has generated strong commitment from the government, communities and water services providers.
- Topic:
- Water, Infrastructure, Governance, Accountability, and Community
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
25. Combining Humanitarian and Development Approaches in Bangladesh: Using VRA and PCMA methodologies
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 03-2017
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Many rural communities in Tala, south-west Bangladesh are vulnerable to environmental hazards including water-logging, arsenic contamination, salinity and cyclones. Pre-crisis market assessment (PCMA) is used to support humanitarian programming based on an understanding of daily needs, how these change during crises, and how local market systems respond to these needs. Using vulnerability and risk assessment (VRA) allowed Oxfam to test the assumptions of humanitarian programme staff and provide a richer, more detailed analysis of the local context. The combination of PCMA with VRA can subsequently be used to facilitate better contingency planning to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency responses.
- Topic:
- Development, Infrastructure, Crisis Management, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh and Asia
26. ICTs in Humanitarian Response: A learning review of a three-year, five-country programme
- Author:
- Amy O'Donnell
- Publication Date:
- 04-2017
- Content Type:
- Special Report
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The Scaling Humanitarian ICTs Network (SHINE) funded by Sida, set out with the theory of change that the quality and efficiency of humanitarian aid can be improved in a variety of contexts through the adoption of Information Communications Technologies (ICTs). With applications in Ethiopia, DRC, Mali, Indonesia and Iraq, ICTs were introduced to enable digital registrations, mobile data collection, cash/voucher programming and systems for accountability. While ICTs hold promise for saving time, money and improving accuracy, this learning report sets out to unpack these benefits and identify the conditions that need to be in place in order for ICTs to significantly add value to humanitarian response.
- Topic:
- Development, Science and Technology, Accountability, Humanitarian Crisis, and Data
- Political Geography:
- Africa, Iraq, Indonesia, Middle East, Asia, Ethiopia, Mali, and Democratic Republic of Congo
27. A Resilient Present and Future are Possible
- Author:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Publication Date:
- 04-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Asia is exposed and vulnerable to a wide range of natural and manmade hazards. In many respects, it is the global epicenter for disasters. Its location makes it prone to destructive hazards that are exacerbated by climate change, leading to an increasing number of cyclones, sea level rises, severe drought, and other extreme climate effects. This vulnerability is compounded by poverty. The majority of the world’s poorest people today live in Asia, thus protection and recovery from these disasters remain difficult. In Asia, Oxfam continues to work with partners and vulnerable communities to promote resilience against existing risks and new risks from natural and human induced disasters that impact disadvantaged poor people in Asia. This map provides an overview of the extensive work in 11 countries in Asia and features different kinds of approaches towards building resilience: small holder agriculture and enterprises; water resilience; urban resilience; natural resource management; working with the private sector to build resilience; and climate finance and gender justice, among others.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Climate Change, Disaster Relief, Gender Issues, and Water
- Political Geography:
- Asia
28. The AIIB’s Energy Opportunity: How the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank’s Energy Lending Can Chart a New Path of Sustainable Development
- Author:
- Kiri Hanks
- Publication Date:
- 06-2017
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The new Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) will be a major new funder of infrastructure in developing Asia, where demand for power is growing faster than any other region in the world. Done right, its energy lending could promote an inclusive and sustainable Asian energy transition. This report sets out a vision for an AIIB partnership with the region’s most climate-vulnerable countries. This could forge a new path of economic development and confirm a new era of Southern climate leadership.
- Topic:
- Climate Change, Environment, Natural Resources, Infrastructure, Sustainable Development Goals, Fossil Fuels, and Paris Agreement
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Global South
29. Governance in Tajikistan: Evaluation of the Women Smallholder Farmer Advocacy Campaign
- Author:
- Clay Westrope
- Publication Date:
- 06-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This evaluation is presented as part of the Effectiveness Review Series 2015/16, randomly selected for review under the good governance thematic area. This report documents the findings of a qualitative impact evaluation, carried out in May 2016. The evaluation used process tracing to assess the effectiveness of the GROW campaign in Tajikistan. In an effort to complement agricultural value chain programming implemented by a variety of organisations in the Khatlon region of Tajikistan, Oxfam GB (OGB) integrated aspects of its global advocacy campaign, GROW. The GROW campaign takes a multi-pronged approach to the multi-faceted issue of global food insecurity by focusing on a diversity of causes, including climate change, land reform issues, industrial farming, and private sector policies. In Tajikistan, the campaign team selected contextually relevant key issues to guide its advocacy activities, including climate change, land reform, and water availability with a focus on women smallholder farmers as the key agricultural producers. OGB did this through trainings, workshops, round tables, and highly visual events integrated with previous and currently existing programming. In Tajikistan, the GROW Campaign was implemented in a distinctive way by leveraging synergies between previous, existing, and future programming both directly and tangentially related to the main themes of the campaign. Rather than serving as a standalone campaign, GROW served as a platform from which to promote, influence, and advocate on issues through related projects being implemented on the ground.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Gender Issues, Governance, Feminism, Rural, Farming, and Empowerment
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
30. Multi-Stakeholder Partnership Development: For Sustainable Alliances in the South Caucasus
- Author:
- Ian Goodrich and Benoit Trudel
- Publication Date:
- 06-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The programme’s overall objective is ‘to contribute to the improvement of food security and nutrition in the South Caucasus through smallholder farmers’ representation in the governance processes’. It focuses on working with government structures and civil society actors to develop, implement and monitor food security-related strategies and legislation, ensuring that support mechanisms are in place for small-scale producers. The programme also supports national alliances and institution-building, enabling sustainable civil society engagement in the policy process, a critical component given Oxfam’s planned phase-out in 2017. This document particularly focuses on the programme’s use of the Social Network Analysis methodology to support the sustainability of its alliances.
- Topic:
- Civil Society, Development, Alliance, and Sustainability
- Political Geography:
- Europe, Caucasus, Asia, and South Caucasus
31. From Service Delivery to Sustainable Water Management in Tajikistan
- Author:
- Orkhan Ali, Gulchehra Boboeva, and Ian Goodrich
- Publication Date:
- 07-2017
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Oxfam’s WASH programme in Tajikistan is based on a theory of change which has four pillars: improved governance of water and sanitation at national and local levels; building demand for and supply of sanitation at a household level, alongside improved hygiene practices; social accountability in water provision; and securing financing for water and sanitation through innovative funding models. This document focuses on how the programme moved from service delivery to sustainable water management.
- Topic:
- Water, Infrastructure, Governance, Innovation, and Sustainability
- Political Geography:
- Central Asia, Asia, and Tajikistan
32. New Actors, New Models, New Outcomes? African Countries’ Engagement with China and other Development Partners in Achieving the SDGs and Agenda 2063
- Author:
- Chris Alden
- Publication Date:
- 07-2017
- Content Type:
- Research Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Understanding how Africa can engage with global development partners to provide more effective support for implementation of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 is crucial to realizing the continent’s development aspirations. This report provides a detailed assessment of the key development platforms – the SDGs, Agenda 2063 and FOCAC. It examines how Africans can mobilize around a Common African Position on Implementation of the SDGs and Agenda 2063 at the level of national governments, regional economic communities and the African Union – with an aim to improve coordination and cooperation in best practice for development between emerging and traditional partners.
- Topic:
- Development, International Trade and Finance, Regional Cooperation, Sustainable Development Goals, and Regionalism
- Political Geography:
- Africa, China, and Asia
33. Tourism’s Dirty Secret: The exploitation of hotel housekeepers
- Author:
- Diana Sarosi
- Publication Date:
- 10-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Tourism is booming and generates millions of jobs for women around the world. Yet the hotel industry exemplifies the vast inequality of today’s world. The women who make hotel beds and clean hotel toilets labour long hours for meagre pay, face sexual harassment and intimidation, are exposed daily to toxic chemicals and live in fear of arbitrary dismissal. Meanwhile, the top-earning hotel CEOs can earn more in an hour than some housekeepers do in a year. Such systematic exploitation is not inevitable. The hotel industry, consumers and governments must all be part of the solution to end the economic exploitation of women. This report examines the working lives of housekeepers in Toronto, Canada, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and Phuket, Thailand. In dozens of interviews with hotel housekeepers, representatives of workers’ organizations and hotel managers, Oxfam found five overarching trends common to the three locations: in non-unionized hotels, extremely low wages that are not sufficient to live on; serious health risks and high rates of injury; high rates of sexual harassment; difficulty organizing due to employer resistance and bad management practices; and a lack of adequate child care.
- Topic:
- Gender Issues, Labor Issues, Governance, Tourism, Sexual Violence, and Exploitation
- Political Geography:
- Canada, Asia, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, North America, and Thailand
34. Empowering Grassroots Women Through Transformational Partnerships in Agricultural Value Chains
- Author:
- Mark Vincent Aranas
- Publication Date:
- 09-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The Gender Transformative and Responsible Agribusiness Investments in South East Asia (GRAISEA) programme works to promote women’s economic empowerment in agricultural value chains. The agricultural sector is heavily reliant on women workers, but these women do not have equal access to resources – only 12 percent of the three million landowners in Asia are women, for example. Together with the Institute for Social Enterprise for Asia and its partners, GRAISEA documented the stories of women who have been empowered by partnerships in the Philippines and Thailand. This case study tells their stories and presents a set of benchmarks for how transformational partnerships can be implemented in agricultural value chains.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Gender Issues, Economic Inequality, Fishing, and Empowerment
- Political Geography:
- Asia and South East Asia
35. Redefining Inclusive Growth in Asia: How APEC can Achieve an Economy that Leaves no one Behind
- Author:
- Maria Dolores Bernabe
- Publication Date:
- 11-2017
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- In November 2017, leaders will gather in Vietnam for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The last few decades have seen astonishing growth and poverty reduction across Asia, but inequality is on the rise and the benefits of growth are increasingly going to those at the top. This paper sets out how APEC leaders can use the opportunity of the summit to move in a new direction – one in which the economy works for everyone, not just the few.
- Topic:
- Regional Cooperation, Labor Issues, Health Care Policy, Private Sector, Economic Cooperation, and Inclusion
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Asia-Pacific
36. Rapid Protection, Food Security and Market Assessment: Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, November 2017
- Author:
- Floriane Echegut and Corrie Sissons
- Publication Date:
- 11-2017
- Content Type:
- Case Study
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Since 25 August 2017, the Cox’s Bazar and Bandarban districts in the south-east of Bangladesh have seen a mass influx of Rohingya refugees fleeing violence in Rakhine State in Myanmar. To inform programming and the wider humanitarian response, Oxfam undertook a rapid food security, markets and protection assessment in November 2017. This was done to complement a large-scale WASH response launched in early September 2017 at the onset of the displacement from Myanmar.
- Topic:
- Food Security, Displacement, Humanitarian Intervention, Conflict, and Protected People
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh and Asia
37. Taxing for Shared Prosperity: Policy Options for the Asia-Pacific Region
- Author:
- Mustafa Talpur and Jian Zheng
- Publication Date:
- 12-2017
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The Asia-Pacific region was a model for ‘growing with equity’ in the 1970s and 1980s. Rapid economic growth was achieved without major increases in inequality. However an economic take-off and market-oriented reforms in recent years, despite helping hundreds of millions to be lifted out of extreme poverty, has been accompanied by growing income and wealth gaps between rich and poor. This increase in inequality has greatly diminished the ability of economic growth to reduce poverty. This report suggests a course for the region’s economies to be defined by inclusive growth and shared prosperity. It argues that tax policies can play an essential role in an effective pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 10, which calls for reducing inequality. Taxes provide the main public revenue source for financing essential public programmes for inclusive development, such as healthcare, education, social protection and welfare schemes. And taxes can become a powerful policy tool for direct redistribution of income and wealth in a society.
- Topic:
- Education, Health Care Policy, Inequality, and Tax Systems
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Asia-Pacific
38. ‘I Still Don’t Feel Safe to Go Home’: Voices of Rohingya Refugees
- Author:
- Edmund Cairns
- Publication Date:
- 12-2017
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Since 25 August, more than 626,000 Rohingya have reached Bangladesh from Myanmar. Rohingya women and men have told Oxfam devastating stories of killings, rape and sexual violence. This report is an opportunity for some of them to share their stories, hopes, and their experiences of living in overcrowded refugee camps with overflowing latrines and contaminated water. Heavy rains and the cyclone season in 2018 threaten to bring new disaster and increase the risk of cholera. And irrespective of the recent bilateral agreement between Myanmar and Bangladesh, most Rohingya are terrified of returning to Myanmar while the discrimination that drove them away is unchanged.
- Topic:
- Diplomacy, Bilateral Relations, Refugee Crisis, Gender Based Violence, Violence, Sexual Violence, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh, Asia, and Myanmar
39. Pop culture with a purpose: Violence against women in Bangladesh
- Author:
- Conor Molly
- Publication Date:
- 10-2016
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Violence against women and adolescent girls is a systemic and ingrained problem in Bangladesh. Oxfam Novib worked with a group of local partners in Bangladesh, including BRAC, WECAN, HASAB and Rupantur, to address the problem in the Khulna Division through an intervention strategy centered on the utilization of edutainment methodologies. The project combined interactive, high quality modern communications tools, including televised docudramas and public service commercials, and traditional edutainment, such as street theatre, together with targeted and more intense school and community interventions in 10 select locations in the Khulna Division. As a result, more than 3,000 students (60 percent were girls) and 3,000 parents reported changing their values and attitudes towards sexual violence against adolescents. Through a mass campaign, the project reached approximately 500,000 people across the Bangladesh.
- Topic:
- Communications, Culture, Social Movement, and popular culture
- Political Geography:
- Bangladesh, South Asia, and Asia
40. Asia at a Crossroads: Why the region must address inequality now
- Author:
- Jessica Hamer, Maria Dolores Bernabe, and Mark Fried
- Publication Date:
- 01-2015
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Asia is at a Crossroads. Rising inequality poses a dire threat to continued prosperity in Asia, where an estimated 500 million people remain trapped in extreme poverty, most of them women and girls. The huge gap between rich and poor hinders economic growth, undermines democratic institutions and can trigger conflict. If Asia's policymakers hold tight to yesterday's truths, hoping against hope that growth and prosperity will trickle down to all, they will put everyone's welfare at risk. But if there are courageous leaders, willing to tackle inequality head-on, they can ensure inclusive and sustainable development for all of Asia's people. Oxfam is calling on Asia's governments to make a determined effort to combat discrimination and improve policies on taxation and social spending. This is needed now if the region is to secure a stable and prosperous future.
- Political Geography:
- Asia
41. Access to Cancer Treatment: A study of medicine pricing issues with recommendations for improving access to cancer medication
- Author:
- Ellen T. Hoen
- Publication Date:
- 02-2015
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- According to the World Health Organization, cancer is one of the leading causes of death around the world, with 8.2 million deaths in 2012. More than 60 percent of the world's new cases of cancer occur in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America and these regions account for 70 percent of the world's cancer deaths. In low- and middle-income countries, expensive treatments for cancer are not widely available. Unsustainable cancer medication pricing has increasingly become a global issue, creating access challenges in low-and middle-income but also high-income countries. This report describes recent developments within the pricing of medicines for the treatment of cancer, discusses what lessons can be drawn from HIV/AIDS treatment scale-up and makes recommendations to help increase access to treatment for people with cancer.
- Political Geography:
- Africa, America, and Asia
42. Harmless Harvest: How sustainable agriculture can help ASEAN countries adapt to a changing climate
- Author:
- Maria Dolores Bernabe
- Publication Date:
- 05-2015
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- A better way of growing food is the best bet against climate change for Southeast Asia's small-scale food producers. Sustainable agriculture - agriculture that can meet the needs of present and future generations, ensures the efficient production of safe, high-quality agricultural products in a way that protects the natural environment, and improves on the economic conditions of farmers and local communities - offers the best chances for countries belonging to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to deal with climate change. By scaling-up sustainable agricultural practices across the region, ASEAN can help feed its peoples and support the livelihoods of small-scale food producers, and help curb greenhouse gas emissions to push back impending catastrophe.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Environment, Regional Cooperation, and Food
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Southeast Asia
43. For Richer or Poorer: The capture of growth and politics in emerging economies
- Author:
- Alice Krozer
- Publication Date:
- 09-2015
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The emerging economies Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, South Africa and Turkey - in short, the BRICSAMIT - have come to be considered the economic powerhouses of recent decades. Not only have these countries managed to reduce poverty; most have embarked on a steep economic growth path and play an increasingly influential role on the global scene. But today, all eight BRICSAMIT countries occupy the top ranks as some of the most unequal countries in the world. The price these countries - and millions of their citizens - pay for this is high. Excessive inequality hampers development prospects: negatively impacting growth potential, threatening poverty reduction, leading to mass migration flows and 'brain drain', and reducing opportunities for young people. This report, which was commissioned by civil society networks across the BRICSAMIT countries, aims to increase the urgency to tackle the structural causes of inequality by shedding light on the nature and scope of the issue in the BRICSAMIT, and the economic, political and social consequences these countries are now facing as a result.
- Topic:
- International Cooperation, Migration, Poverty, and Economic Inequality
- Political Geography:
- Africa, Russia, China, Europe, Indonesia, Turkey, Asia, South Africa, Brazil, South America, and Mexico
44. Implementing the PWDVA: Safeguarding women from domestic violence
- Author:
- Pooja Parvati
- Publication Date:
- 10-2015
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) is one of the most widespread, and yet the least recognized, human rights violations across the world. It can manifest in many forms, but the most common form experienced by women globally is physical violence inflicted by an intimate partner. Documenting this continues to be a challenge due to lack of reliable, timely datasets. In 2005, the government of India enacted the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), which came into force in 2006. Nine years later, progress in its implementation is insignificant as it remains plagued by challenges such as inadequate funds and human resources, poor coordination across implementing agencies and ineffective monitoring mechanisms. Addressing these would go a long way in strengthening the Act and making it effective. This also corresponds with the Indian government’s wholehearted commitment to ‘Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’ by the year 2030 through its adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Topic:
- Gender Issues, Human Rights, Gender Based Violence, and Humanitarian Crisis
- Political Geography:
- India, Asia, and Global Focus
45. Building Inclusive Coconut-Based Livelihoods in Post-Haiyan Reconstruction in the Philippines
- Author:
- Joel Rodriguez
- Publication Date:
- 02-2014
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- The most powerful storm ever to hit the Philippines, Typhoon Haiyan (known locally as Typhoon Yolanda) has affected about 16 million people. Four million people have been displaced; the majority of them are fisherfolk, and small-scale farmers and farm workers.
- Topic:
- Agriculture, Humanitarian Aid, and Natural Disasters
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Philippines
46. Beyond Safe Land: Why security of land tenure is crucial for the Philippines' post-Haiyan recovery
- Author:
- Daniel Fitzpatrick and Caroline Compton
- Publication Date:
- 08-2014
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Following the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013, the Philippines authorities pledged to 'build back better' – a vision designed to ensure that affected communities were stronger and more resilient in the face of future storms. Significant efforts and some important steps have been taken by various authorities to begin fulfilling that vision.
- Topic:
- Security and Environment
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Philippines
47. Women's Economic Leadership in Asia: A review of WEL programming
- Author:
- Bowman Kimberly
- Publication Date:
- 09-2014
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- This report summarizes an internal review of Women‟s Economic Leadership (WEL) programming in Asia. Conducted by an internal MEL advisor in 2013–2014, the review draws upon project documentation, evaluation reports, site visits and staff and partner interviews to try and reflect how WEL programming is being implemented by Oxfam and partners in Asia. Part of a formative evaluation activity, the report aims to help gather and consolidate good practice, based on what Oxfam project teams and partners have learned through recent experience and evaluation. There are at least four distinct topics covered in this report that may be of specific interest to readers.
- Topic:
- Economics, Gender Issues, and Sociology
- Political Geography:
- Asia
48. Can't Afford to Wait: Why Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation plans in Asia are still failing millions of people
- Author:
- Steph Cousins
- Publication Date:
- 11-2014
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- Climate-related disasters and food crises are devastating thousands of lives and holding back development across Asia. A year on from the devastating super-typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, Oxfam calls for governments across Asia, backed by regional and global institutions and fair contributions from wealthy countries, to ramp up efforts to address these challenges. Without greater investment in climate and disaster-resilient development and more effective assistance for those at risk, super-typhoon Haiyan-scale disasters could fast become the norm, not the exception.
- Topic:
- Climate Change, Disaster Relief, Environment, Humanitarian Aid, and Natural Disasters
- Political Geography:
- Asia and Philippines
49. The BRICS Development Bank: Why the world's newest global bank must adopt a pro-poor agenda
- Author:
- Lysa John
- Publication Date:
- 06-2014
- Content Type:
- Policy Brief
- Institution:
- Oxfam Publishing
- Abstract:
- In July 2014, a new multilateral and Southern-led development bank is expected to be launched by the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – better known as the BRICS. The BRICS Development Bank will provide a fresh source of finance for developing and emerging economies to meet their development needs. Little has been made public regarding the proposed Bank's core mandate or activities but while governments negotiate the technicalities of the Bank, it is critical that they also provide a solid vision of the principles, priorities and objectives on which the Bank's activities and operations will be premised. This policy brief recommends that these include commitments to: ending extreme poverty and inequality, with a special focus on gender equity and women's rights; aligning with environmental and social safeguards and establishing mechanisms for information sharing, accountability and redress; leadership on the sustainable development agenda; the creation of mechanisms for public consultation and debate; and the adoption a truly democratic governance structure.
- Topic:
- Development, Economics, Gender Issues, International Cooperation, and Poverty
- Political Geography:
- Africa, Russia, China, Europe, India, Asia, South Africa, Brazil, and South America