Minorities constitute groups that make up less than half the population defined by culture, gender, religion, or language. According to studies, minorities comprise about 35% of countries. Minorities often face discrimination and problems like illiteracy, few rights, poverty, and famine. Governments and individuals need to take action to help minorities, such as those in Africa, one of the most affected and poorest continents where many work to assist minorities suffering from malnutrition and lack of clean water. In Spain, for example, gypsies are a minority group with a different culture that has faced discrimination according to police regulations from 1943, though over time discrimination against them continues.