Title: “Economic Crisis: 86.8% of Nicaraguans Unable to Afford Basic Needs as Prices Soar”
Introduction:
Nicaragua has been experiencing an economic crisis in recent years, leading to a significant increase in poverty rates and a decline in living standards for the majority of the population. The prices of basic necessities such as food, clothing, and healthcare have skyrocketed, leaving most Nicaraguans unable to afford even the most essential items. This crisis has resulted in a staggering 86.8% of the population not having enough money to buy the things they need, highlighting the urgent need for governments and international organizations to take action.
Price inflation and poverty:
Poverty rates in Nicaragua have been consistently rising over the past few years. The UN Development Programme (UNDP) has reported that the country has an 80% poverty rate, and almost a third of the population live on less than $1.25 per day, below the international poverty line. The poor standard of living is further worsened by the rapid inflation rate, with food prices increasing by more than 150% in the past year, healthcare prices by over 200%, and basic medicines by over 300% compared to the same period last year. As a result, many Nicaraguans cannot afford even the simplest goods such as food, clothing, housing, education, and healthcare.
Food inflation and nutritional insecurity:
Food is a staple need for most people, and any decrease in the availability or rise in price of food can have devastating impacts on communities. In Nicaragua, the government is struggling to provide adequate amounts of nutritious food to its citizens. The 86.8% of Nicaraguans unable to afford basic necessities must work multiple jobs just to scrape by, leaving little money to devote to food. As food insecurity worsens, the rates of malnutrition, stunting and wasting in children, and other micronutrient deficiencies are on the rise, impacting the health and well-being of these communities.
Impact on healthcare:
Even if Nicaraguans can get by on a day-to-day basis, the lack of access to essential medical care is a major concern for healthcare authorities. Many hospitals and medical clinics do not have the necessary resources and materials, let alone the staff or budget, to provide adequate health care. As a result, conditions go untreated, and the disease load continues to rise. Public spending on healthcare has decreased due to limited government resources, and individuals often must pay out of their pockets for medical services, which is just another financial burden for those unable to afford basic necessities.
International concerns and the need for action:
Despite Nicaragua’s economic crisis, aid efforts from international organizations and governments to combat this crisis have been limited and patchy. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern for the significant increase in malnutrition among Nicaraguan children, and local medical authorities have called on aid organizations to provide emergency humanitarian support. In response, the EU, UNICEF and humanitarian groups have launched emergency funds, pledging millions of euros for aid and assistance for food, healthcare, and education for children. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of poverty, inflation, and the struggle of so many Nicaraguans just to survive.
Conclusion:
As a result of the economic crisis and rapidly rising prices, 86.8% of Nicaraguans are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic essentials. This crisis has severe long-term consequences for the health, well-being, and development of the population. It is necessary to take immediate action to address poverty and the lack of access to medical care, education, and food. Addressing these issues will require joint efforts from governments, international organizations, humanitarian aid groups, and local communities, emphasizing solidarity and cooperation to alleviate the suffering and deprivation in Nicaragua.
https://english.elpais.com/international/2024-07-18/with-prices-soaring-868-of-nicaraguans-cannot-afford-to-buy-essentials.html