The Marshall Plan Against Poverty provides a comprehensive and integrated framework to address poverty in Mauritius while taking into account the challenges posed by climate change and disaster risks. By promoting resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and access to essential services, the plan aims to foster long-term social and economic resilience for vulnerable communities, ensuring that poverty reduction efforts are sustainable in the face of environmental challenges.
Marshall Plan Against Poverty: Addressing Climate Change and Hazards Impact on Poverty in Mauritius
Introduction
In 2015, the Government of Mauritius, with technical assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), launched the “Marshall Plan Against Poverty”. This comprehensive initiative aims to eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and address social exclusion in both Mauritius and Rodrigues. Given the increasing impact of climate change and disaster risks, the plan integrates sustainable approaches to alleviate poverty while considering the broader environmental and climate challenges facing the country.
Objectives of the Marshall Plan
The Marshall Plan has set the following key objectives to combat poverty while addressing climate and disaster-related challenges:
- Poverty Eradication: Prioritize poverty alleviation by evaluating existing social protection programs and identifying new, sustainable approaches to reduce poverty.
- Reducing Inequality and Social Exclusion: Create strategies to foster social inclusion, particularly for marginalized and vulnerable groups.
- Resilience Building: Focus on the self-sufficiency and resilience of individuals and households, especially in the face of climate-related hazards.
Key Components of the Marshall Plan
- Social Protection and Housing
- Strengthen social safety nets and improve access to affordable housing.
- Ensure social inclusion and support community development initiatives to help vulnerable groups.
- Access to Essential Services
- Improve access to basic services such as electricity, water, sanitation, transportation, and ICT facilities.
- Promote these services in a sustainable manner to foster social integration and improve quality of life.
- Education and Capacity Development
- Focus on education, skills development, and employment opportunities to enhance economic independence for vulnerable populations.
- Prioritize the empowerment of women, youth, and people with disabilities.
- Sustainable Livelihoods and Economic Opportunities
- Create employment opportunities and promote sustainable livelihoods, particularly for the most disadvantaged groups.
Integration of Climate Change and Environmental Considerations
The Marshall Plan acknowledges the growing impact of climate change and disaster risks on poverty and inequality. As such, the plan includes:
- Climate Change Adaptation: Incorporate measures to help vulnerable communities adapt to climate impacts, including changes in rainfall patterns, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events.
- Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR): Strengthen disaster resilience through preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.
- Environmental Protection: Ensure environmental sustainability by addressing the degradation caused by rapid development and integrating environmental protection measures into poverty alleviation strategies.
Addressing the Challenges of Rapid Development
Mauritius has experienced rapid economic growth, which has improved living standards but also increased environmental challenges. The Marshall Plan recognizes that sustainable economic growth must be balanced with environmental preservation to ensure long-term prosperity and resilience.
Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The Marshall Plan aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequality
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
By integrating climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and environmental sustainability into poverty eradication efforts, the Marshall Plan contributes to achieving these global goals while ensuring that national priorities, such as poverty eradication, remain central.
