by Rebecca Laes-Kushner | Mar 4, 2026 | policy
Part one of this series reviewed the main concepts behind MSD and how the approach functions. Market systems development (#MSD) is a powerful way to stimulate changes in the marketplace – by improving how goods and services are bought and sold and stimulating support...
by Rebecca Laes-Kushner | Feb 20, 2026 | policy, poverty, Sustainable Development Goals
How do you raise people out of poverty? How do you improve economic conditions in a low-income region or country? Private sector development (#PSD) has been a long-standing answer. Donors support micro, small and medium enterprises (#MSMEs) by providing training in...
by Rebecca Laes-Kushner | Jan 31, 2026 | policy
From trauma to limited access to education and jobs, refugees face challenges – but also show resilience, adaptability and a desire to improve their circumstances. There are over 36 million refugees worldwide, as well as approximately 70 million more people internally...
by Rebecca Laes-Kushner | Nov 10, 2025 | health, policy, poverty, public health, social determinants of health
Children’s exposure to lead causes 1.5 million deaths every year as well as health impacts, including lower IQs and behavioral problems, which ultimately impact adults’ ability to earn sufficient wages. Lead exposure is tied to US$1.4 trillion in...
by Rebecca Laes-Kushner | Oct 2, 2024 | policy
Approximately 50 million people today are in slavery, including 12 million children and 22 million people in forced marriages (many of whom are children). Overview of modern slavery Although the top 10 countries are North Korea, Eritrea, Mauritania, Saudi Arabia,...
