There is significant global inequality in the distribution of resources, with over 1 billion people living in absolute poverty according to UN criteria in 1999. Developing countries face numerous economic challenges including lack of access to safe water, sanitation, and primary education for many children. While there is wide diversity among developing countries, common problems include underdevelopment, unequal terms of international trade, structural economic issues, and debt burdens.

4. The Nature and Extent of the Poverty