Definition of Poverty
Poverty is a multidimensional concept that encompasses material deprivation, limited access to opportunities, and a lack of empowerment. It varies across regions and contexts, but generally includes:
- Material Deprivation: Lack of essential resources, such as food, clean water, housing, clothing, and basic healthcare.
- Low Income and Economic Security: Insufficient income to meet basic needs, lack of job opportunities, and vulnerability to economic shocks.
- Limited Access to Education and Healthcare: Barriers to education and healthcare services, resulting in lower levels of health and educational attainment.
- Social Exclusion and Discrimination: Marginalization and discrimination based on race, gender, disability, or other factors that limit opportunities and access to resources.
- Lack of Empowerment: Limited participation in decision-making processes, lack of access to information, and inability to influence one's own life circumstances.
Multidimensional Nature
Poverty is not solely defined by income but rather by a combination of factors that impact individuals, households, and communities. These dimensions are interrelated and mutually reinforcing, creating a cycle of poverty that can be difficult to break.
Measurement and Indicators
Poverty is often measured using statistical indicators such as:
- Income or consumption levels (e.g., poverty line income)
- Material deprivation indices (e.g., access to water, sanitation, electricity)
- Multidimensional poverty indices (e.g., Human Development Index, Household Income and Expenditure Survey)
References:
- United Nations Development Programme. (2019). Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI). https://www.hdr.undp.org/en/content/multidimensional-poverty-index-mpi
- World Bank. (2018). Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2018: Piecing Together the Poverty Puzzle. https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/publication/poverty-and-shared-prosperity-2018