Mara Kardas-Nelson

Mara Kardas-Nelson is a freelance journalist based in Berkeley, California. She reports on health, the environment, and international politics and development. Her work has appeared in The Guardian, NPR, and other publications. You can read some of it at https://marakardasnelson.com.

How Microfinance Became the ‘It’ Development Program

How Microfinance Became the ‘It’ Development Program How Microfinance Became the ‘It’ Development Program

Microfinance has been touted as a miracle cure for poverty in the global south. The reality has been a lot messier.

Jul 15, 2024 / Feature / Mara Kardas-Nelson

The Petrochemical Industry Is Killing Another Black Community in ‘Cancer Alley’

The Petrochemical Industry Is Killing Another Black Community in ‘Cancer Alley’ The Petrochemical Industry Is Killing Another Black Community in ‘Cancer Alley’

Residents of St. James are fighting new plastics plants—but some wonder if they should leave before it's too late. 

Aug 26, 2019 / Feature / Mara Kardas-Nelson

Why South Africans Keep Voting for the ANC

Why South Africans Keep Voting for the ANC Why South Africans Keep Voting for the ANC

Despite major dissatisfaction amongst voters and opposition from fledgling alternative parties, the ruling African National Congress won by a landslide.

May 13, 2014 / Mara Kardas-Nelson and Benjamin Fogel

International Power Players Are Harming Global Health

International Power Players Are Harming Global Health International Power Players Are Harming Global Health

A major international commission probes the political origins of health inequities—and finds wealthy nations deserve much of the blame.

Mar 5, 2014 / Mara Kardas-Nelson

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