Oxfam's work in Armenia in depth
With no coastline, scant natural resources, and a shortage of basic services, Armenia struggles to build a more prosperous life for its people. A devastating earthquake in 1988, and the collapse of the Soviet Union three years later had left the country in a fragile state – and conflict with neighbouring Azerbaijan has left the country further in the grip of poverty. Oxfam is helping to create livelihoods and provide primary health care.
Oxfam in Armenia
Oxfam has worked in Armenia since 1994. Nowadays, we provide health care in rural areas; develop people’s income from agriculture and small businesses; and help communities to have their say in the democratic process.
Health for all
Armenia’s state health service has suffered from severe under-funding for years, leaving many communities without essential drugs, health workers, and clean water to keep the population healthy. Oxfam is approaching the problem in two ways: setting up village health care schemes, and raising awareness of health issues (and of the need to train/educate more people in health care) to influence national policy – so that such schemes will be endorsed by the authorities and extended throughout the country.
By the end of 2007, village primary health care schemes were running in 130 villages, supported by Oxfam’s local partner, Support to Communities. Each individual member of a village scheme contributes a small quarterly amount and, in return, receives basic treatment, free drugs, and visits by medical specialists. In one region, Vayots Dzor, the programme has already resulted in a reduction in goiter cases, and the virtual elimination of iodine deficiency.
Women’s health is improving, and life-long illnesses such as diabetes are being diagnosed and treated. Gharibyan Larisa, 58, who was cared for in the village while recovering after an operation says: “This initiative is really very helpful, because women can receive timely treatment and consultation.”
Farmers in business
It is very difficult for farmers to get their products to market, so they can gain the income that their work deserves. With support from Oxfam’s partners, farmers are forming associations that enable them to work together to improve their production and processing, and to market their products collectively. As a result, rural businesses are going from strength to strength.
Tackling rights
Since the Soviet system collapsed, people in Armenia have had more opportunities to say how the government should promote people’s rights and tackle poverty. Oxfam is supporting people’s involvement in decision-making, for instance by enabling civil society organisations to monitor the government’s strategy to reduce poverty.
Disability rights
People with disabilities are often excluded from society – typically, they are kept out of sight, or face discrimination in other ways. Oxfam’s partner Bridge of Hope challenges discrimination, promotes equal opportunity, and lobbies for disabled children to attend mainstream schools. From the beginning of 2008, this combination of work with disabled people with advocacy and awareness-raising among Armenia’s decision-makers has helped to improve the lives of 30,000 disabled people and their families.
Last updated: July 08
