With a population of over 8.5 million, Honduras is one of the richest and most diverse countries in Central America. Despite having a high productive potential, 74% of the population lives below the poverty line, a condition that affects rural women and youth in particular.
The scarce and ineffective investment in social spending, the capture of the political process by the elite, fiscal injustice, corruption and weakened institutions contribute to growing inequalities in the country. In fact, the poverty gap between urban and rural areas has increased since 1990.
Gender inequality levels across health, education, labor market participation and representation are also higher due to the growing inequalities. Compared to men, many more women from Honduras live in poverty, confront various levels of gender violence daily, have no income of their own and, on average, earn 65 cents for every dollar a man earns.
Honduras is considered the most vulnerable country to climate change. However, the necessary public policies to prevent and mitigate its impact are limited. The recurring extreme weather events, such as flooding and drought, deepen the vulnerability, exclusion and inequality conditions in the rural areas of the country.
Oxfam in Honduras
Oxfam began working in Honduras in 1998 when Hurricane Mitch struck the country. Since our first humanitarian response just in the aftermath, we have taken on initiatives aimed at having the greatest impact on people’s lives, especially women and youth, until their rights prevail and their dignity as citizens is restored. We achieve this through:
- Prevention of violence against women and access to justice: To advance women’s leadership in Honduras we need to understand and search for safe and positive ways to overcome attitudes, values and beliefs that legitimize the exclusion and discrimination against women and girls.
- Economic empowerment for women and youth: Through our work with networks and communities, we encourage people to develop their own solutions.
- Transformative leadership for women and youth: Oxfam encourages the participation of women and youth at all levels, to strengthen their discursive capacity, dialogue, and articulation.
We work closely with local NGOs, civil society organizations, community networks, and regional groups to raise awareness and help people to fight for their basic rights and needs.