1We - One World Experience for a Better World -

Bangladesh is mostly known for its devastating floods and extreme poverty. Despite receiving billions of dollars worth of international aid, there seems to have been very little improvement since Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. Even now, almost half the population is illiterate and almost as many people live way below the lines of poverty.

Education

Things however are changing, slowly but surely. For example by education which is an important factor in the fight against poverty and child labour. In the cities, as well as in the rural districts, more and more children attend primary school.

Another weapon in the poverty struggle is healthcare. At least 5 of the 8 millennium goals are connected to healthcare issues. There’s good reason too, as great improvement can be made especially in matters relating to hygiene.

Fight against water

Next to the battle against poverty, Bangladesh is constantly in a fight against the water. Three huge rivers expand across the flat country with their endless and uncountable streams. Because of this gigantic network of big and small rivers Bangladesh is one big delta of which the population makes intensive use. At the same time the wide streamed river scheme is the biggest enemy of the Bangladeshi people. Because of the high water levels, severe monsoons and the melting water from India and China more than half of the country is faced with heavy floods every single year.

Survive

This all is why most Bangladeshis are still living to survive. Even a little support is of great importance for the majority of the people. With their natural spirit of enterprise and our support it is enough to help them get back on their feet again.

Dido Silva, Bangladesh national soccer coach, had the honour to open the 1We Slum Shop officially. In his speech he said about the initiative of 1We - One World Experience: “The 1We projects are really helping the people to help themselves. It is a sustainable way to give a chance and opportunity to those people who really need it.” Watch the interview above. More about the 1We Slum Shops

Things are changing, slowly but surely