Everyone deserves the right to escape poverty and achieve prosperity. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to eliminate poverty globally, ensuring dignity and opportunity for all.
By 2030, the 2030 Agenda targets eradicating extreme poverty—defined as living on less than $2.15 per day. While progress was made in recent decades, COVID-19 reversed these gains, pushing nearly 90 million more people into extreme poverty. Even before the pandemic, poverty reduction was slowing. By 2022, an estimated 670 million people (8.4% of the global population) remained in extreme poverty, erasing three years of progress. If trends continue, 575 million people (7%) could still face extreme poverty by 2030, with sub-Saharan Africa disproportionately affected.
Additionally, global hunger has risen to 2005 levels, while food prices continue to climb, worsening food insecurity.
Why Does Poverty Persist?
Poverty stems from unemployment, social exclusion, and vulnerability to crises like disease and disasters.
Why Should We Care?
Inequality harms economic growth and social stability, fueling tensions and conflict. Our collective well-being depends on lifting others out of poverty.
The Role of Social Protection
Strong social safety nets prevent people from falling into poverty. Despite expansions during COVID-19, 4 billion people (55% of the population) lack any social protection. While 105 countries introduced 350 temporary measures in 2022-2023, long-term, universal systems are needed.
How Can We Help?
– Individuals can advocate for inclusive policies and share knowledge to drive change.
– Governments must create job opportunities for marginalized groups.
– Businesses should ensure inclusive growth that benefits the poor.
– Science has reduced poverty by improving access to clean water, healthcare, and sanitation.
Key Facts
– 575 million may remain in extreme poverty by 2030.
– Over 4 billion lack social protection, including vulnerable groups.
– Wealthier nations spend more on education, health, and welfare than developing ones.
– Urgent investments in education, jobs, and social protection are vital to leaving no one behind
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