The United Nations has released a report indicating that over one billion individuals are living in inhumane conditions. This report, prepared by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford University’s Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative, highlights that more than 83% of the impoverished population resides in rural areas, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
Since 2010, UNDP and Oxford have been publishing the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), which utilizes ten indicators, including health, education, and living standards. This year’s index encompasses data from 112 countries, representing a population of 6.3 billion people.
According to the index, 1.1 billion individuals live in extreme poverty, with over half of them concentrated in five countries: India (234 million), Pakistan (93 million), Ethiopia (86 million), Nigeria (74 million), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (66 million).
More than half of those living in poverty, approximately 584 million, are under the age of 18, with 317 million in sub-Saharan Africa and 184 million in South Asia. Afghanistan has seen a rise in poverty, with nearly 59% of the population living in impoverished conditions. A previous report indicated that hunger remains a significant issue in Asia.
The UNDP and Oxford emphasized that this year’s report focuses on the poor living in war-torn regions, noting that 2023 has witnessed the highest number of conflicts since World War II, forcing 117 million people to flee their homes due to war, disasters, and other reasons—an increase from 100 million in 2022.
Pedro Conceição, director of the UNDP Human Development Report Office, stated, “For the first time, the report connects conflict data with global MPI data, revealing the harsh realities faced by those enduring both conflict and poverty.”
He added that individuals living in conflict zones face three to five times more severe challenges regarding basic needs such as nutrition, water and sanitation, electricity, and education compared to those in peaceful areas.
Sabina Alkire, director of the Oxford Initiative, noted that reducing poverty in conflict-free areas is more manageable, but is significantly more challenging for the 455 million individuals who are not only impoverished but also concerned for their safety.
Alkire explained that the MPI can identify the poorest regions, allowing poverty alleviation efforts to be focused effectively. For instance, in Burkina Faso, where a military junta governs and extremist attacks are rising, nearly two-thirds of the population is impoverished.
The MPI indicates that poverty levels in different regions of this West African country range from 21% to 88%, with low school attendance, nutrition, and education significantly contributing to poverty.
Alkire concluded that this data helps direct funding and investment for poverty eradication to the most needy areas, thereby saving money and increasing impact.