In light of global economic developments and changing poverty measurement standards, the World Bank's update of the poverty lines presents an opportunity to reassess charitable work strategies. The new poverty line, which reflects the upper tier of middle-income countries at $6.85 per day (according to 2017 purchasing power parity), highlights the need to address the challenges of poverty in a broader and more comprehensive context.
Poverty in Kuwait and Charitable Eligibility Standards
Kuwait, despite being a high-income country, faces specific challenges in the realm of charitable work due to varying living standards and high living costs. Consequently, the criteria for determining poverty differ from those in other countries, and eligible beneficiaries for support are identified based on local conditions that take into account the costs of housing, food, education, and healthcare services.
Therefore, Kuwaiti charities and philanthropic organizations must develop updated eligibility standards that consider local and global economic changes, with a focus on groups that may not fall below the international poverty line but still require substantial support to meet their basic needs.
Challenges and Opportunities for Charitable Work in Kuwait
- Reassessing the Local Poverty Line:
In an environment with a high cost of living like Kuwait, defining a local poverty line with greater accuracy is essential to ensure fair distribution of aid.
- Increasing Demand for Charitable Resources:
As international poverty line standards rise, pressure mounts on charitable organizations to expand the circle of beneficiaries, necessitating enhanced fundraising efforts both within Kuwait and abroad.
- Strengthening Local and International Partnerships:
Collaboration with specialized international organizations can offer expertise and practical tools to develop charitable work strategies, enhancing their efficiency and impact.
- Diversifying Support:
Rather than limiting efforts to direct financial aid, efforts must be directed towards sustainable projects, such as funding small businesses and vocational training and education programs.
- Technology in Charitable Work:
Adopting digital systems to increase transparency and facilitate the delivery of support to those in need has become an urgent necessity to improve efficiency and reduce waste.
Kuwait's Pioneering Role in Combating Poverty
With Kuwait maintaining its global position as a center for humanitarian work, this status should be reflected in the development of innovative and effective charitable strategies. These strategies could include establishing charitable investment funds to provide sustainable income to support the poor, and developing educational and health initiatives focused on empowering beneficiaries and achieving self-sufficiency.
The new indicative poverty line represents an opportunity for Kuwaiti charities and philanthropic organizations to rethink their methodologies and develop their tools to fit the local reality while aligning with global transformations. Poverty in Kuwait does not only mean a lack of income, but also includes the need to provide genuine opportunities for a dignified life through fostering innovation and partnerships. Kuwait can remain at the forefront of nations contributing to the fight against poverty and promoting social justice both within its borders and beyond.
