1.  Title: Global action for health system strengthening: Policy recommendations to the G8 Task Force on Global Action for Health System Strengthening. Author: Japan Center for International Exchange. Task Force on Global Action for Health System Strengthening Source: Tokyo, Japan, Japan Center for International Exchange, 2009. 131 p. Abstract: On January 16, 2009, a high-level working group on global health convened by the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE) released a report to the Japanese government outlining measures that the G8 countries should take to set them on a path toward fulfilling their existing commitments to contributing to an overall improvement in the health of individuals and communities around the world. The Working Group on Challenges in Global Health and Japan's Contributions (the "Takemi Working Group") is chaired by Japan's former Senior Vice Minister for Health, Labour and Welfare Keizo Takemi and directed by JCIE President Tadashi Yamamoto. The Japanese government will pass the report to the Italian government, encouraging them to put these recommendations on the agenda of the 2009 G8 Summit in Italy. The report includes chapters by an international team of researchers and advisors on three specific building blocks of health systems-health financing, health information, and the health workforce-that are generally acknowledged to be critical components of any strong health system. While each paper offers specific recommendations for improvements that can be made in each individual building block, they also come to several common conclusions: 1.) While there is still a dire need for more resources-financial, human, and knowledge resources-in the global health field, there is also a critical need to use existing resources more efficiently and more effectively. Recognizing that the current global financial environment will make it even more difficult to secure the resources needed to make health systems work better for everyone, the paper writers recommend complementing the quest for more resources with creative thinking on ways to achieve better health outcomes with the resources we already have. 2.) The human security concept, which has become a pillar of Japan's foreign policy, is identified as a promising approach that can be adopted globally for strengthening health systems. Human security's emphasis on the wellbeing of individuals and communities is very much in line with the ultimate goal of health system strengthening: improving people's health and making health services available to all so that they can be healthy, productive members of society. Human security also responds to the complexity of health system strengthening with its focus on integrating community empowerment with protection strategies and its recognition of the dynamic way in which health is interconnected with many other human security challenges. 3.) In all areas of health system strengthening, donor countries tend to tell their partners in developing countries how they should behave and make decisions. This can lead to confusion, with contradicting instructions often coming from multiple donors and even from single donors, and loss of motivation for stakeholders in partner countries to take ownership of processes to improve their own health sectors. Contributing to this challenge, capacity for making informed decisions on health is often weak, further discouraging domestic decision making in planning and management of health systems. The paper writers all recommend that donor countries invest in capacity building for health sector decision making at the national and local levels and, at the same time, encourage stakeholders in partner countries to drive their own planning and implementation processes. 4.) Finally, the paper writers all recommend that the G8 follow through on its commitment to accountability by establishing an annual review of its activities and accomplishments within each of these three building blocks. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CONFERENCES AND CONGRESSES | RECOMMENDATIONS | SYSTEMS ANALYSIS | HEALTH PERSONNEL | LABOR FORCE | HEALTH POLICY | FOREIGN AID | CAPACITY BUILDING | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | INFORMATION SERVICES | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | COORDINATION | Research Methodology | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Financial Activities | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration | Information | Health Services Document Number: 328416 |
2.  Peer Reviewed Title: Education gender gaps in Pakistan: Is the labor market to blame? Author: Aslam M Source: Economic Development and Cultural Change. 2009 Jul;57(4):747-784. Abstract: Differential labor market returns to male and female education are one potential explanation for large gender gaps in education in Pakistan. We empirically test this explanation by estimating private returns to education separately for male and female wage earners. This article contributes to the literature by using a variety of methodologies (ordinary least squares, Heckman correction, two-stage least squares, and household fixed effects) in order to estimate economic returns to education. The latest nationally representative data-the Pakistan Integrated Household Survey (2002)-are used. Earnings function estimates consistently reveal a sizable gender asymmetry in economic returns to education, with returns to women's education being substantially and statistically significantly higher than men's. The return to an additional year of schooling ranges between 7% and 11% for men and between 13% and 18% for women. There are also large, direct returns to women's education at low levels of schooling, and the education-earnings profile is more convex for women than for men. However, a decomposition of the gender wage gap (into the component "explained" by differing male and female endowments and the residual component) suggests that there is highly differentiated treatment by employers. We conclude that the total labor market returns are much higher for men, despite returns to education being higher for women. This suggests that parents may have an investment motive in allocating more resources to boys than to girls within households. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | LABOR FORCE | SPOUSE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | GENDER ISSUES | SEX FACTORS | INEQUALITIES | INCOME | PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child Rearing | Behavior Document Number: 341095 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: "Conditional scholarships" for HIV/AIDS health workers: educating and retaining the workforce to provide antiretroviral treatment in sub-Saharan Africa. Author: Barnighausen T; Bloom DE Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2009 Feb;68(3):544-51. Abstract: Without large increases in the number of health workers to treat HIV/AIDS (HAHW) many countries in sub-Saharan Africa will be unable to achieve universal coverage with antiretroviral treatment (ART), leading to large numbers of avoidable deaths among people living with HIV/AIDS. We conduct a cost-benefit analysis of a health care education scholarship that is conditional on the recipient committing to work for several years after graduation delivering ART in sub-Saharan Africa. Such a scholarship could address two of the main reasons for the low numbers of health workers in sub-Saharan Africa: low education rates and high emigration rates. We use Markov Monte Carlo microsimulation to estimate the expected net present value (eNPV) of "conditional scholarships" in sub-Saharan Africa. The scholarships are highly eNPV-positive under a wide range of assumptions. Conditional scholarships for a HAHW team sufficient to provide ART for 500 patients have an eNPV of 1.24 million year-2000 US dollars, assuming that the scholarship recipients are in addition to the health workers who would have been educated without scholarships and that the scholarships reduce annual HAHW emigration probabilities from 15% to 5% for five years. The eNPV of the education effect of the scholarships is larger than eNPV of the migration effect. Policy makers should consider implementing "conditional scholarships" for HAHW, especially in countries where health worker education capacity is currently underutilized or can be rapidly expanded. Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | MARKOV CHAIN | LABOR FORCE | HEALTH PERSONNEL | HUMAN RESOURCES | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS | MANAGEMENT | Africa | Developing Countries | Probability | Statistical Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Organization and Administration Document Number: 330870 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV-related risk behaviours and the correlates among rickshaw pullers of Kamrangirchar, Dhaka, Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study using probability sampling. Author: Hoque HE; Ono-Kihara M; Zamani S; Ravari SM; Kihara M Source: BMC Public Health. 2009;9:80. Abstract: BACKGROUND: National HIV serological and behavioural surveillance of Bangladesh repeatedly demonstrated a very high proportion of rickshaw pullers in Dhaka city, having sex with female sex workers (FSWs) and using illicit substances. However, no study has been conducted to identify the correlates of having sex with FSWs among this population. This study aimed to describe behavioural profile of rickshaw pullers in Dhaka city using probability samples and to identify the correlates for having sex with FSWs in order to focus HIV prevention intervention. METHODS: Six hundred rickshaw pullers were randomly selected from rickshaw garages in the Kamrangirchar area, the single largest slum cluster of Dhaka, Bangladesh, during March-April 2008 using the Proportion Probability to Size method. Participants were interviewed, with a response rate of 99.2% (n = 595), using a structured questionnaire and asked about illicit substance use, sexual behaviour and risk perception for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases. Independent predictors of having sex with FSWs were analysed by multivariate analysis. A qualitative study was subsequently conducted with 30 rickshaw pullers to supplement the findings of the initial survey. RESULTS: The proportion of survey respondents who had sex with FSWs and those who used illicit substances in the previous 12 months period were 7.9% and 24.9%, respectively, much lower than the results achieved in the 2003-04 behavioural surveillance (72.8% and 89.9%, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed the characteristics of younger age, being never married, living alone with family remaining in other districts and using illicit substances in the previous 12 months were significantly associated with having sex with FSWs. CONCLUSION: HIV-related risk behaviour of our study population of the rickshaw pullers was lower than what has been suggested by the results of behavioural surveillance. While this discrepancy should be addressed in further studies, our study emphasizes the importance of focused HIV prevention programs for rickshaw pullers as high-risk behaviour is displayed at an unacceptable level and concentrated in identifiable sub-populations. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | LABOR FORCE | SLUMS | SEX BEHAVIOR | SAMPLING ERRORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Urbanization | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Error Sources | Measurement Document Number: 341351 |
| 5. Title: Alleviating the burden of responsibility: report on a study of men as providers of community-based HIV/AIDS care and support in Lesotho. Author: Newman C; Makoae N; Reavely E; Fogarty L Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, IntraHealth International, Capacity Project, 2009 Jan. 101 p. Abstract: This study demonstrates a range of perspectives about gender and HIV/AIDS care from those participating in and potentially affected by health care initiatives, and makes recommendations for increasing the number of male community-based providers of HIV/AIDS care. The objectives of the study were as follows: 1. Determine the need to bring men into community-based HIV/AIDS care and Support; 2. Determine the feasibility of engaging men as providers of community-based HIV/AIDS care and support, especially the gender-related and cultural factors that need to be addressed to increase male involvement in community-based care, based on an analysis of gender relations in Lesotho; 3. Identify factors that facilitate or hinder substantive and sustained male involvement in community-based HIV/AIDS care and support; and 4. Make recommendations for feasible gender-redistributive recruitment, training, support or retention strategies to increase the number of male communitybased providers of HIV/AIDS care and support in Lesotho. Language: English Keywords: LESOTHO | EVALUATION REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | MEN | HEALTH PERSONNEL | LABOR FORCE | COMMUNITY WORKERS | HIV INFECTIONS | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | CAPACITY BUILDING | GENDER ISSUES | SEX DISCRIMINATION | NEEDS ASSESSMENT | MEN'S INVOLVEMENT | TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTICES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Evaluation | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration | Sociocultural Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Culture Document Number: 325235 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Temporary migration and changing family dynamics: implications for social development. Author: Rahman M Source: Population, Space and Place. 2009;15(2):161-174. Abstract: Drawing upon longitudinal data, this research documents the relationship between migration and development by highlighting the conditions which promote changes in social and familial relations, social positioning, and intergenerational relationships within the families who experience temporary outmigration and the return of at least one male member. The fieldwork data (based on two surveys) derive from research conducted on Bangladeshi temporary migrants in Singapore and in an 'origin' village in Bangladesh in 2001 and 2006. The study reports that male labour migration has contributed to social changes in their own families and villages over time that are most likely to stimulate, in turn, macro-changes in Bangladeshi society in the long run. Language: English Keywords: SINGAPORE | BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | LABOR FORCE | MIGRATION | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | FAMILY LIFE | SOCIAL MOBILITY | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Studies | Research Methodology | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Family Characteristics Document Number: 328737 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: A case-crossover analysis of predictors of condom use by female bar and hotel workers in Moshi, Tanzania. Author: Tassiopoulos K; Kapiga S; Sam N; Ao TT; Hughes M Source: International Journal of Epidemiology. 2009 Jan 15;38:552-560. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Factors related to specific sexual encounters can influence condom use during these encounters. These situation-specific factors have not been adequately studied in resource-poor countries where HIV infection has in some areas reached epidemic levels. This study was undertaken to identify situation-specific factors associated with condom use among 465 female bar and hotel workers in Moshi, Tanzania. METHODS: We conducted a case-crossover study in which women provided information about their most recent unprotected and protected sexual encounters. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate paired odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between situation-specific factors and condom use. RESULTS: A subject-based or mutual decision about condom use (compared with partner based), casual partner type, a first-time sexual encounter and receiving gifts in exchange for sex were independently associated with increased odds of condom use, while sex at home and sex with a partner more than 10 years older was associated with reduced odds of use. There was also effect modification between partner type and decision-making: subject-based or mutual decisions were more protective with casual than regular partners; also, when the partner made the decisions about condom use, the type of partner had no effect. CONCLUSIONS: Decision-making about condom use is a potentially modifiable predictor of unprotected sex, but its effect varies by partner type. Behavioural interventions are needed that encourage discussion about condom use and increase women's self-efficacy, but other types of interventions as well as female-controlled HIV prevention methods are needed for women in regular partnerships. Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN | SEXUAL PARTNERS | LABOR FORCE | CONDOM USE | DECISION MAKING | HIV | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Risk Reduction Behavior | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 329665 |
| 8. Title: Gender equality and economic growth - for poverty reduction. Author: Alsop R; Healey P Source: Poverty in Focus. 2008 Jan;(13):14-15. Abstract: Analysis indicates that investments in gender equality can accelerate economic growth and poverty reduction. However, despite increasing interest in the growth effects of inequality and a resurgence of concern over gender discrimination, there is little to suggest that gender differentiation is consistently or effectively addressed in growth policy formulation or implementation. The evidence suggests that gender inequality and women's limited capacity to respond to economic opportunity inhibits growth via three main channels: Education affects women's capacity to make effective choices about employment, family planning and investments in children; Labour market participation impacts productivity, income and savings; Institutions govern women's asset use, time burden, and intra and extra household bargaining positions. There are serious limitations in current analysis resulting partly from lack of data and partly from the difficulties in examination of complex information. Creating better data and improving analysis are obviously priorities for well informed growth policy. In addition though, and even prior to better informed policy development, there is sufficient proof currently available to begin the process of addressing the detrimental growth and poverty effects of gender inequality. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LABOR FORCE | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | DEVELOPMENT POLICY | POVERTY | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | EDUCATION | INSTITUTION BUILDING | Economic Factors | Human Resources | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 323221 |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: Estimating the relative success of local authorities at labour-market integration of immigrants. Author: Andersen SH; Heinesen E Source: European Journal of Population. 2008 Mar;24(1):59-86. Abstract: We propose a method for estimating indicators of the success of local authorities at integrating immigrants in the labour-market. The proportion of time in employment of individuals is used to measure labour-market integration, and we correct for differences in characteristics of immigrants and local labour markets using a two-limit Tobit model. This method is applied to a large administrative micro dataset which contains information on all immigrants in Denmark. We compare the estimated indicators of integration to corresponding uncorrected measures, and conclude that the corrections have a significant effect on the ranking of local authorities. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DENMARK | RESEARCH REPORT | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | IMMIGRANTS | GOVERNMENT | LABOR FORCE | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | SETTLEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT | ACCULTURATION | Developed Countries | Europe, Northern | Europe | Research Methodology | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Social Change Document Number: 325285 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Demography, culture, and policy: Understanding Japan's low fertility. Author: Boling P Source: Population and Development Review. 2008 Jun;34(2):307-326. Abstract: Insights into the causes of Japan's prolonged and sharp fall in total fertility rate come from comparing Japan with France. The two countries share dirigiste administrative approaches, family policy reform undertaken under the auspices of pragmatic right wing parties and justified on pronatalist grounds, and involvement of demographic experts in crafting and shepherding such policies. But the countries differ with respect to their total fertility rates (France 1.98, Japan 1.29) and the effectiveness of their family policies. Thus comparing them can help identify areas of divergence that might explain these differences and assist in the project of theory building. Several salient explanations are rooted in Japan's labor market: it exacts high opportunity costs from parents who interrupt their careers to raise children, keeps ideal workers from having much time for their families, assumes and reinforces a traditional gender ideology, and hires few young workers into good jobs. (author's) Language: English Keywords: JAPAN | FRANCE | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | FERTILITY DECLINE | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | FAMILY POLICY | POPULATION POLICY | TOTAL FERTILITY RATE | LABOR FORCE | GENDER ISSUES | PRONATALIST POLICY | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | FAMILY ALLOWANCES | CHILD CARE | FEMALE ROLE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Studies | Research Methodology | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Child Rearing | Behavior | Social Behavior Document Number: 327375 |
| 11. Title: Do coresidency and financial transfers from the children reduce the need for elderly parents to works in developing countries? Author: Cameron LA; Cobb-Clark D Source: Journal of Population Economics. 2008 Oct;21(4):1007-1033. Abstract: Do elderly parents use coresidence with or financial transfers from children to reduce their own labour supply in old age? This paper is one of only a few studies that seeks to formally model elderly labour supply in the context of a developing country while taking into account coresidency with and financial transfers from children. We find little evidence that support from children-either through transfers or coresidency-substitutes for elderly parents' need to work. Thus, as in developed countries, there is a role for public policy to enhance the welfare of the elderly population. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | INDONESIA | RESEARCH REPORT | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | OLDER ADULTS | CHILDREN | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSFERS | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | LABOR FORCE | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Adults | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Population Dynamics | Human Resources Document Number: 327975 |
| 12. Title: The burden of gender inequalities for society. Author: Costa J; Silva E Source: Poverty in Focus. 2008 Jan;(13):8-9. Abstract: Gender inequalities are present in many ways in the labour market. Two relevant indicators of these inequalities are the ratio between female and male participation in the paid workforce and the ratio between female and male hourly wages. These indicators reflect the fact that women face barriers to enter the labour market and, when they find a job, their earnings are lower than those of men. The gender gap indicators among urban adults in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, El Salvador and Mexico are shown in the chart below. In each of these countries, the rate of economic activity among females is below 62 per cent while the male rate is higher than 84 per cent. The ratio between female and male labour market participation is not more than 0.6 in Chile and Mexico. The female hourly wage is around 80 per cent of that of males for all countries, except Argentina with a ratio of 92 per cent. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LABOR FORCE | GENDER ISSUES | SEX DISCRIMINATION | INEQUALITIES | POVERTY | EMPLOYMENT | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | Economic Factors | Human Resources | Sociocultural Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Socioeconomic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 323218 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Raising interest in contraception and sexual health: Special study modules for medical students. Author: Fey C; Evans C Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2008;34(1):64-65. Abstract: Getting the balance correct in medical workforce planning, particularly in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G), has been a problem for a number of years. Over the last 10 years, training numbers have varied and the balance between trainees qualified and number of consultant posts available has wavered. Bearing in mind the Government's aims for a consultant-delivered service, and the need for future increase in senior posts (another discussion entirely around consultants vs non-consultant senior grade!), we are now seeing the possibility of failure to provide enough trainees to fill anticipated posts. In particular, there are notably fewer trainees attracted to O&G, and we see parallel problems in recruiting to Contraception and Sexual Health (C&SH). Even now we have unfilled consultant and trainee posts throughout the country (see Workforce Planning Committee reports) and attracting trainees to our speciality remains a challenge. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | CRITIQUE | STUDIES | LABOR FORCE | MEDICAL STUDENTS | SEX EDUCATION | HEALTH | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | CONTRACEPTION | OCCUPATIONS | GYNECOLOGY | HUMAN RESOURCES | EMPLOYMENT | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Research Methodology | Economic Factors | Students | Education | Family Planning | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Macroeconomic Factors Document Number: 323396 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: The Netherlands: Childbearing within the context of a "Poldermodel" society. Author: Fokkema T; de Valk H; de Beer J; van Duin C Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(21):743-794. Abstract: The Netherlands has seen a considerable decline of the period total fertility rate and delayed childbearing, just like all other European countries. The drop in fertility, however, has not been as sharp as in many other regions of Europe. The period total fertility rate in the Netherlands has stabilized since the late 1970s at around 1.6 children per woman, and it has even risen slightly since 1995. In addition, although the Netherlands has one of the oldest first-time mothers, completed fertility is still rather high compared to other European countries, suggesting a strong "catching up" of births by women in their thirties. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the main driving forces behind specific fertility trends in the Netherlands. Among other factors, it focuses on changing patterns of home leaving and union formation, declining partnership stability, and the growing acceptability and use of contraception. The chapter also looks at prolonged education, rising labor-force participation of women, economic uncertainties, the growing migrant population, and family policies. Data allowing, and to the extent possible, we examine the effects of these factors on decision-making about parenthood and the timing of childbearing. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NETHERLANDS | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY DECLINE | DELAYED CHILDBEARING | TOTAL FERTILITY RATE | MARRIAGE AGE | ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY | ILLEGITIMACY | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | MATERNAL AGE | FAMILY SIZE | DIVORCE | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | LABOR FORCE | WOMEN | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Fertility Changes | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Social Problems | Contraception | Family Planning | Parental Age | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Human Resources | Economic Factors Document Number: 327728 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: Planning and costing human resources for health. Author: Glassman A; Becker L; Makinen M; de Ferranti D Source: Lancet. 2008 Feb 23;371(9613):693-695. Abstract: Human resources are crucial for the provision of health care and represent the largest single use of public spending on health in developing countries. Yet countries face an ongoing challenge when it comes to financing human resources for health (HRH) sufficiently to sustain an adequate supply of health workers and stimulate greater productivity and more effective health care. Several papers prepared for the 2006 World Health Report and the Global Health Workforce Alliance describe the HRH financing gap and the variables such as economic growth, government revenues, aid, fiscal sustainability targets, and priority-setting practices that affect the ability of governments and donors to increase spending on this input. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | HEALTH PERSONNEL | HUMAN RESOURCES | LABOR FORCE | HEALTH SERVICES | PLANNING | PRODUCTIVITY | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | HEALTH POLICY | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | EVALUATION | Health | Economic Factors | Organization and Administration | Economic Development | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 324875 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Youth sexual behaviour in a boomtown: Implications for the control of sexually transmitted infections. Author: Goldenberg S; Shoveller J; Ostry A; Koehoorn M Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections. 2008 Jun 1;84(3):220-223. Abstract: Northeastern British Columbia, Canada, is undergoing rapid in-migration of young, primarily male, workers in response to the "boom" in the oil/gas industries. Chlamydia rates in the region exceed the provincial average by 32% (294.6 cases per 100 000 persons compared with 213.3). Evidence indicates that sociocultural and structural determinants of young people's sexual health are key to consider in the design of interventions. The objectives were to investigate how sociocultural and structural features related to the oil/gas boom are perceived to affect the sexual behaviour of youth in a Northeastern "boomtown". The study included ethnographic fieldwork (8 weeks) and in-depth interviews with 25 youth (ages 15-25 years) and 14 health/social service providers. Participants identified four main ways in which the sociocultural and structural conditions created by the boom affect sexual behaviours, fuelling the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): mobility of oil/gas workers; binge partying; high levels of disposable income and gendered power dynamics. The sociocultural and structural conditions that are fostered by a resource-extraction boom appear to exacerbate sexual health inequalities among youths who live and work in these rapidly urbanising, remote locales. To meet the needs of this population, we recommend STI prevention and testing service delivery models that incorporate STI testing outreach to oil/gas workers and condom distribution. Global, national and local STI control efforts should consider the realities and needs of similar subpopulations of young people. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CANADA | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | MEN | LABOR FORCE | MIGRANT WORKERS | YOUTH | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | TESTING | SCREENING | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | RECOMMENDATIONS | North America, Northern | Americas | Developed Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Behavior | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Measurement | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Health Document Number: 327259 |
| 17. Title: The impact of the labour market on the timing of marriage and births in Spain. Author: Gutierrez-Domenech M Source: Journal of Population Economics. 2008 Jan;21(1):83-110. Abstract: This paper investigates how education and the labour market affect Spanish individual decisions on the timing of marriage and births, using a Cox hazard approach. It disentangles men and women, and two groups, Cohort 1945-1960 and Cohort 1961-1977. Results show that female employment delays marriage in Cohort 1945-1960, but it has a reverse effect in Cohort 1961-1977. We also find evidence that employment is a barrier for family formation since employed women postpone births in both cohorts. The precarious Spanish labour markets, captured by female unemployment rates, delay family formation, especially by putting off marriage. Male unemployment, at the individual level, impacts negatively on fertility only through delaying marriage. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SPAIN | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | LABOR FORCE | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | MARRIAGE AGE | EMPLOYMENT | FAMILY SIZE | DELAYED CHILDBEARING | UNEMPLOYMENT | SEX FACTORS | MARRIAGE POSTPONEMENT | Europe, Southwestern | Europe | Developed Countries | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Economic Development | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Population Characteristics Document Number: 322757 |
| 18. Title: EU-Libya cooperation on migration: A raw deal for refugees and migrants? Author: Hamood S Source: Journal of Refuge Studies. 2008;21(1):19-42. Abstract: Libya's emergence as a key jumping-off point for entry into Europe by sea has created a sense of urgency within the EU, which seeks to prevent arrivals from this new point of departure, and has led to the initiation of EU-Libya cooperation on migration. This article argues that the EU is failing to adopt an integrated approach to migration management in Libya, despite its repeated assurances to the contrary. It examines EU-Libya cooperation, still in its early stages, and analyses the experiences of refugees and migrants in Libya and on their journeys to Europe. Both elements strongly indicate that the current approach, which focuses on border control and surveillance, is likely to meet with limited success in achieving the EU's aims of stemming the flow of irregular migrants arriving from Libya in Italy and Malta, protecting the human rights of those in transit and ensuring humanitarian outcomes for them. (author's) Language: English Keywords: LIBYA | EUROPE | RESEARCH REPORT | MIGRANTS | LABOR FORCE | MIGRATION | MIGRATION POLICY | HUMAN RIGHTS | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Developed Countries | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 324865 |
| 19. Title: Poverty, employment and globalisation: A gender perspective. Author: Heintz J Source: Poverty in Focus. 2008 Jan;(13):12-13. Abstract: Fundamental and far-reaching changes have taken place in the world economy over the past several decades that have had a profound impact on the lives of women and men. Two key aspects of the transformation are (i) the heightened and growing degree of global economic, social and cultural integration-i.e. the process of 'globalisation'-and (ii) a shift in policy stance towards deregulated markets, privatisation, a smaller role for the state and a relatively narrow focus on reducing inflation. These changes impact employment and poverty outcomes for women and men. Gender dynamics are central to this discussion. Whether households stay out of poverty in this changing global environment may hinge on whether women participate in the labour force and have access to decent paid employment. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LABOR FORCE | POVERTY | EMPLOYMENT | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | ECONOMIC POLICY | GENDER ISSUES | SEX DISCRIMINATION | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Human Resources | Socioeconomic Factors | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems Document Number: 323220 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Hepatitis B virus infection and response to antiretroviral therapy (ART) in a South African ART program. Author: Hoffmann CJ; Charalambous S; Martin DJ; Innes C; Churchyard GJ; Chaisson RE; Grant AD; Fielding KL; Thio CL Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2008 Dec 1;47(11):1479-85. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Coinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is common in Africa; however, the impact of HBV infection on the outcomes of antiretroviral therapy programs is unclear. We evaluated the impact of chronic hepatitis B on HIV virologic response, changes in CD4 cell count, hepatotoxicity, and mortality among Africans receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving a workplace HAART program in South Africa. Participants received HAART according to a protocol and were followed up for up to 72 weeks. On the basis of pre-HAART serum assays, patients were classified as being hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) negative, HBsAg positive with a low HBV DNA level ( 1 x 10(4) copies/mL). The relationships between HBV status and HIV RNA suppression, change in CD4 cell count, mortality, and hepatotoxicity were assessed with use of regression techniques. RESULTS: Five hundred thirty-seven individuals fulfilled the inclusion criteria; 431 (80.3%) of these patients were HBsAg negative, 60 (11.2%) were HBsAg positive with a low HBV DNA level, and 46 (8.6%) were HBsAg positive with a high HBV DNA level. All groups had similar rates of HIV RNA suppression (P = .61), CD4 cell count increases (P =.75), and mortality (17 total deaths; P=.11) for up to 72 weeks after the initiation of HAART. Baseline transaminase levels were highest in the group with high HBV DNA levels (P=.004). Hepatotoxicity was similar between the HBsAg-negative group and the group with low HBV DNA levels but was higher in the group with high HBV DNA levels (incidence rate ratio, 4.4). CONCLUSIONS: We revealed that HBV status does not affect HIV RNA suppression, CD4 cell count response, or mortality during the first 72 weeks of HAART in an African setting. The risk of HBV-associated hepatotoxicity, however, is associated with the baseline HBV DNA level. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | WORKPLACE | LABOR FORCE | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | HEPATITIS | TREATMENT | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Employment | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Human Resources | HIV | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 329365 |
| 21. Title: Gender, labour markets and poverty: An overview. Author: Kabeer N Source: Poverty in Focus. 2008 Jan;(13):3-5. Abstract: The pro-poor potential of labourintensive growth is based on the recognition that labour power is the primary asset at the disposal of the poor and hence labour markets the key transmission mechanism through which the benefits of growth can be distributed to the poor. However, it is also premised on a number of implicit, often unexamined, assumptions about the ease with which the poor can transform their labour into paid work and paid work into improved levels of livelihood, security and accumulation. A gender analysis of labour and labour markets suggests that this 'transformation' process not only cannot be taken for granted but that it is also far more problematic for women than for men because of the existence of various gender-related constraints. These constraints relate to social norms and values which govern the gender division of labour in production and reproduction in different regions of the world. In general, these tend to assign primary responsibility for the reproduction and care ofthe family to women and overall decision-making authority to senior males, but allow considerable variation in the roles and responsibilities assigned to men and women in the productive efforts of the family. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | LABOR FORCE | GENDER ISSUES | SEX DISCRIMINATION | EMPLOYMENT | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | SEX FACTORS | POVERTY | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Economic Factors | Human Resources | Sociocultural Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Macroeconomic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Socioeconomic Factors Document Number: 323216 |
| 22. Peer Reviewed Title: Patterns of knowledge and condom use among population groups: results from the 2005 Ethiopian behavioral surveillance surveys on HIV. Author: Kassie GM; Mariam DH; Tsui AO Source: BMC Public Health. 2008 Dec 31;8(429):[14] p. Abstract: Behavioral surveys help interpret the magnitude of HIV/AIDS. We analyzed indicators of knowledge on HIV/AIDS and condom use among sub populations selected for behavioral surveillance in Ethiopia. We used 2005 HIV/AIDS behavioral data from ten target groups. These were female sex workers, defense forces, police force, pastoralists, truck drivers, intercity bus drivers, road construction workers, teachers, factory workers and people in ANC catchment areas. Data from 14,524 individuals were analyzed. The majority were males (63.6%). Overall, knowledge of the three preventive methods, misconceptions and comprehensive knowledge was 57%, 75% and 18.5%, respectively. Female sex workers and the defense force showed some behavioral change in using a condom during the most recent sexual encounter and consistently used a condom with non-regular sexual partners and paying partners. Women, pastoralists and the illiterate were less likely to use condom. Misconceptions about the transmission of HIV were high and comprehensive knowledge about HIV & AIDS was low, particularly among pastoralists. Consistent condom use and condom use during the last sexual encounter were high among both female sex workers and defense force employees, both with paying and non-regular sexual partners. This might be a positive sign, though a considerable proportion in each target group did not report using a condom during sex with non-regular partners. Language: English Keywords: ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | LABOR FORCE | SEX WORKERS | WOMEN | SEXUAL PARTNERS | TRUCK DRIVERS | KNOWLEDGE | BEHAVIOR | CONDOM USE | ILLITERATES | HIV TRANSMISSION | AIDS | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Sex Behavior | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Risk Reduction Behavior | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 329529 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Poland: Fertility decline as a response to profound societal and labour market changes? Author: Kotowska I; Jozwiak J; Matysiak A; Baranowska A Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(22):795-854. Abstract: This article opens with a review of the main trends in family-related behaviour, i.e. fertility decline and changes in fertility patterns, a decreasing propensity to marry, postponement of marriage, and a slowly increasing frequency of divorces and separations. The analysis takes into account urban and rural differences. We then aim to identify the main determinants of family changes within the general conceptual framework of the Second Democratic Transition (SDT) in Poland. However, contrary to mainstream interpretations of the SDT, the main emphasis of this study is on the structural components of change, which need to be reformulated to account for processes specific to the transition to a market economy. The focus is, therefore, on labour market developments and family policy, and to a lesser extent on ideational change. (author's) Language: English Keywords: POLAND | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY DECLINE | FERTILITY CHANGES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | ILLEGITIMACY | CONSENSUAL UNION | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | LABOR FORCE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | CHILD CARE | Europe, Central | Europe | Developing Countries | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage | Nuptiality | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Child Rearing | Behavior Document Number: 327729 |
| 24. Title: The impact of future demographic trends in Europe, 2005 -- 2050. Author: Kupiszewski M; Bijak J; Nowok B Source: Finnish Yearbook of Population Research. 2008;43:147-183. Abstract: The objective of the paper is to examine the future of populations within the Council of Europe member states, identify the main trends and discuss their policy implications. The analysis focuses on the impact that future demographic trends will have on the following social domains: education, the labour market, health care and care of the elderly and social protection. The study aims to be policy-oriented and to provide an overview of future demographic trends for 2005-2050 in the Council of Europe member states, as well as presenting an analysis related to selected policies and an interpretation of these trends. The analysis of population dynamics in the coming 45 years is based on the United Nations population projection of 2005. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EUROPE | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | POPULATION | OLDER ADULTS | LABOR FORCE | POPULATION FORECAST | DEMOGRAPHIC IMPACT | SOCIAL POLICY | EDUCATION | EMPLOYMENT | POPULATION DYNAMICS | DEMOGRAPHY | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | SOCIAL PROTECTION | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Adults | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Estimation Techniques | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Social Sciences | Science | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 326071 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Two approaches to measuring women's work in developing countries: a comparison of survey data from Egypt. Author: Langsten R; Salem R Source: Population and Development Review. 2008 Jun;34(2):283-305. Abstract: The social science literature has long recognized that women's productive activities are poorly measured. Evidence indicates that women's work is underreported in official data, censuses, and labor force surveys. Two broad issues affect measures of women's work: 1) the definition or conceptual categories used; and 2) the way in which the definition is operationalized for data collection. The authors examine this second issue, data collection methods, using examples from a number of surveys recently conducted in Egypt. Their concern is with the measurement of women's contribution to production rather than their labor force participation. A review of the conceptual consensus regarding what activities constitute work and past efforts to determine how best to capture work in large-scale surveys was conducted. The analysis compares two surveys of the same population of women in Egypt that share the same definition of work but that differ in their approaches to measuring it. This article contributes tothe literature on the measurement of women's work in several ways: 1) Results support the superior effectiveness of the activities list format, but depart from previous methods tests in claiming that multiple keyword questions are largely ineffective. 2) Quantify how much hidden work is captured by activities lists and argue that this work is not inconsequential. 3) Examine systematic biases inherent in the keyword approach by looking at the types of work activities that it obscures and the profiles of the working women excluded. 4) Make practical recommendations for improved questionnaire designs that will more accurately measure women's work. The changes to surveys of women's work that recommended would probably improve estimates of the work of children and the elderly, as well as work performed in the agricultural and informal sectors. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: EGYPT | WOMEN | LABOR FORCE | EMPLOYMENT | MEASUREMENT | DATA REPORTING | DATA QUALITY | SURVEYS | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | RECOMMENDATIONS | Developing Countries | Africa, North | Africa | Demographic Factors | Population | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Data Analysis | Sampling Studies | Studies Document Number: 327374 |
| 26. Title: Evaluation of STD/HIV/AIDS peer-education and danger: a local perspective. Author: Laperriere H Source: Ciencia and Saude Coletiva. 2008 Nov-Dec;13(6):1817-24. Abstract: An evaluation of peer-education projects with sex workers, men who have sex with men and marginalized adolescents, was introduced in a remote region of Brazil. The context of varied limits of predictability made it difficult to conduct inquiry. To go beyond available epidemiological surveys and questionnaires on sexual behavior, a self-evaluation aimed at increasing pragmatic knowledge about prevention in a challenging socio-political context. During five-months, a participatory-action research explored participant observation; individual and collective exchanges with users, peer-educators, coordinators, administrators, politicians and regional health professionals. Collective understanding of peer-education in prostitution zones underlines the reality of unforeseen social repercussions and confluence/divergence of multiple actors' perspectives. It identifies meaningful dimensions at a community-level, such as the collective history and dangerous working conditions. Nurses face complex struggles and negotiations over multiple actors in their practice. This study suggests that nurses have a role to play in the conceptualization of participatory evaluation. It also underlines the threats to their physical and social safety, which they might share with peer-educators. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | CRITIQUE | LABOR FORCE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PEER EDUCATORS | POVERTY | DRUG USE AND ABUSE | UNEMPLOYMENT | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | AIDS PREVENTION | KNOWLEDGE | PERCEPTION | SOCIAL CHANGE | PROGRAM EVALUATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Human Resources | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Education | Socioeconomic Factors | Behavior | Employment | Macroeconomic Factors | AIDS | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 330753 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Fighting the brain drain. Author: McColl K Source: BMJ. British Medical Journal. 2008 Sep 15;337:958-960. Abstract: In sub-Saharan Africa, 3% of the world's health workforce cares for 10% of the world's population bearing 24% of the global disease burden. Developing countries need an extra 4.3 million health workers, and urgent action is required to scale up education and training. Last month the World Health Organization's Commission on Social Determinants of Health emphasised the importance of building and strengthening the health workforce if the goal of achieving health equity within a generation is to be realised. International cooperation will be essential to strengthen health systems and to manage the migration of health workers from developing to developed countries. But these measures will take time. What can African and Asian health systems do to recruit and retain health workers now? How can health workers be persuaded to practise in rural areas? Guidelines, commissioned by the Global Health Workforce Alliance, aim to help countries make the best use of incentives to attract and retain health professionals. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | HEALTH PERSONNEL | POLICYMAKERS | LABOR FORCE | WHO | LIFE EXPECTANCY | BRAIN DRAIN | TRAINING PROGRAMS | ACADEMIC TRAINING | MACROECONOMIC FACTORS | INCENTIVES | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Human Resources | Economic Factors | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | International Migration | Migration | Education | Policy Document Number: 328495 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Salaries and incomes of health workers in sub-Saharan Africa. Author: McCoy D; Bennett S; Witter S; Pond B; Baker B Source: Lancet. 2008 Feb 23;371(9613):675-681. Abstract: Public-sector health workers are vital to the functioning of health systems. We aimed to investigate pay structures for health workers in the public sector in sub-Saharan Africa; the adequacy of incomes for health workers; the management of public-sector pay; and the fiscal and macroeconomic factors that impinge on pay policy for the public sector. Because salary differentials affect staff migration and retention, we also discuss pay in the private sector. We surveyed historical trends in the pay of civil servants in Africa over the past 40 years. We used some empirical data, but found that accurate and complete data were scarce. The available data suggested that pay structures vary across countries, and are often structured in complex ways. Health workers also commonly use other sources of income to supplement their formal pay. The pay and income of health workers varies widely, whether between countries, by comparison with cost of living, or between the public and private sectors. To optimise the distribution and mix of health workers, policy interventions to address their pay and incomes are needed. Fiscal constraints to increased salaries might need to be overcome in many countries, and non-financial incentives improved. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH PERSONNEL | LABOR FORCE | INCOME | PRIVATE SECTOR | PUBLIC SECTOR | HISTORICAL DEMOGRAPHY | HEALTH SERVICES | Developing Countries | Africa | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Demography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 324870 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Should active recruitment of health workers from sub-Saharan Africa be viewed as a crime? Author: Mills EJ; Schabas WA; Volmink J; Walker R; Ford N Source: Lancet. 2008 Feb 23;371(9613):685-688. Abstract: Shortages of health-care staff are endemic in sub-Saharan Africa (table). Overall, there is one physician for every 8000 people in the region. In the worst affected countries, such as Malawi, the physician-to-population ratio is just 0.02 for every 1000 (one per 50 000). There are also huge disparities between rural and urban areas: rural parts of South Africa have 14 times fewer doctors than the national average. These numbers are very different to those in developed countries: the UK, for example, has over 100 times more physicians per population than Malawi. Furthermore, almost one in ten doctors working in the UK are from Africa. The insufficiency of health staff to provide even basic services is one of the most pressing impediments to health-care delivery in resource-poor settings. The consequences are clearly shown by the inverse relation that exists between health-care worker density and mortality. High-income countries, such as Australia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, the USA, the United Arab Emirates, and the UK have sustained their relatively high physician-to-population ratio by recruiting medical graduates from developing regions, including countries in sub-Saharan Africa. In contrast, over half of the countries in sub-Saharan Africa do not meet the minimum acceptable physician to population ratio of one per 5000-WHO's Health for All standard. Nurses, pharmacists, and other health workers are systematically recruited from a region struggling with the greatest burden of infectious and chronic illness and the specific challenge of HIV/AIDS. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | SUMMARY REPORT | HEALTH PERSONNEL | PHYSICIANS | LABOR FORCE | PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT | RECRUITMENT ACTIVITIES | BRAIN DRAIN | Developing Countries | Africa | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Management | Organization and Administration | Program Activities | Programs | International Migration | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 324872 |
| 30. Title: Globalization, migration and brain drain: a reality check. Author: Murru M Source: Health Policy and Development. 2008;6(3):153-163. Abstract: Migration is an old phenomenon in human history. It takes place for various reasons, which have been roughly grouped into "push" and "pull" factors. Migrants have always faced harsh conditions either in transit or on arrival, from the environment and the citizens of their destinations. Of recent, migration has increased due to globalization, which has increased the access of people in sending countries to "pull" factors through the media. However, more recently, stiff regulations have been put in place by the receiving countries to curb immigration, partly as part of the global "war on terror", but partly as a political measure to contain intolerance of foreigners in their societies. In a special way, international migration of skilled labour has come under increased scrutiny over the recent years. It has been argued that for the sending/losing countries, it leads to a brain drain and depletes national resources spent on training. It also denies the remaining population the opportunity to benefit from their highly skilled compatriots usually educated at the public's cost. Proponents argue that it is the right of individuals to look for the working conditions acceptable to them, in order to earn acceptable income for themselves and their families. They argue that, moreover, migrant workers send back remittances to their relatives. In fact, in some countries like Uganda, remittances are the leading source of foreign exchange. Such countries have therefore started policies to export skilled labour or to support the return of remittance with a view tap into the wide base of remittances for public use. This paper discusses the pros and cons of migration and concludes that international migration is inevitable but should be managed in a way that is beneficial for both the sending and receiving countries. It ends on a prophetic note that current intolerance to foreigners will end spontaneously in the course of a generation. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | LABOR FORCE | FOREIGNERS | MIGRATION | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | BRAIN DRAIN | COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Nationality | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Dynamics | Social Development Document Number: 325514 |
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