Global Poverty Crisis: Over One Billion Affected
A recent report from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) reveals that more than 1.1 billion people worldwide are suffering from acute poverty. Alarmingly, half of these individuals are minors, highlighting a dire situation for children in impoverished regions. The report underscores that the poverty rate in countries experiencing armed conflicts is three times higher than in peaceful nations. This increase in poverty is attributed to the unprecedented number of armed conflicts since World War II, with 2023 marking a significant rise in such incidents.
The Global Multidimensional Poverty Index, which has been calculated by UNDP and OPHI since 2010, assesses various indicators of poverty, including inadequate housing, lack of sanitation, and insufficient access to electricity and food. The latest findings indicate that 455 million of the impoverished population live in conflict zones, where the severity of deprivations is reported to be three to five times more acute.
Children and Rural Areas Hit Hardest
The report reveals that 84% of the world's poor reside in rural areas, with 584 million children and adolescents affected by poverty. The poverty rate for minors stands at 27.9%, significantly higher than the 13.5% rate for adults. The regions most impacted by poverty include sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, with the latter being the most densely populated area globally.
Countries such as India, Pakistan, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo report the highest numbers of impoverished individuals. For instance, India has 234 million people living in poverty, while Pakistan has 93 million. This alarming trend is exacerbated by rapid population growth in these countries, which further complicates efforts to alleviate poverty.
Call to Action for Global Community
Sabina Alkire, Director of OPHI, emphasizes the need for urgent action, stating that wars and violent conflicts not only inflict deep scars but also obstruct poverty reduction efforts. The report highlights that 40% of the impoverished population resides in conflict zones, where the overall poverty rate is 34.8%, compared to 10.9% in non-conflict areas. Alkire urges the international community to intensify efforts to reduce poverty while fostering peace, as 455 million individuals are currently struggling for a decent life amidst ongoing conflicts.
