Global Poverty: A
ComprehensiveAnalysis
Poverty, a pervasive issue affecting millions worldwide, demands a
comprehensive understanding and concerted efforts for its alleviation.
This presentation delves into the multifaceted nature of global poverty,
exploring its definition, scope, and the factors that perpetuate it. We will
conduct a thorough SWOT and PESTEL analysis to identify strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in poverty reduction efforts, as
well as the political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and
legal factors at play.
SS
by Seoigh Saws
2.
Defining and MeasuringGlobal Poverty:
Understanding the Scope
Absolute Poverty
Absolute poverty refers to a condition where individuals
lack the basic necessities for survival, such as food, shelter,
and clothing. It is often measured using a poverty line,
which represents the minimum income required to meet
these basic needs. The World Bank defines extreme poverty
as living on less than $2.15 a day.
Relative Poverty
Relative poverty, on the other hand, is defined in relation to
the living standards of the majority in a particular society. It
occurs when individuals or households have significantly
lower incomes compared to others in their community,
leading to social exclusion and limited opportunities. In
Europe, relative poverty is typically defined as earning less
than 60% of the median income.
Understanding the scope of global poverty requires accurate measurement. Various metrics are used, including income-
based measures, multidimensional poverty indices, and social indicators like access to healthcare and education. These
measures help identify vulnerable populations and track progress in poverty reduction.
3.
SWOT Analysis ofGlobal Poverty Reduction Efforts
Strengths
Increased awareness of poverty issues, advancements in
technology and communication, growing involvement of NGOs
and international organizations, availability of resources and
funding.
Weaknesses
Corruption, lack of infrastructure, political instability, inequality
in resource distribution, inadequate access to education and
healthcare.
Opportunities
Technological innovations, sustainable development initiatives,
empowering women and marginalized communities,
promoting inclusive economic growth.
Threats
Climate change, economic crises, political conflicts, pandemics,
increasing inequality, lack of good governance, war, natural
disasters.
A SWOT analysis provides a strategic framework for assessing the internal strengths and weaknesses of global poverty reduction efforts,
as well as the external opportunities and threats they face. By identifying these factors, policymakers and practitioners can develop more
effective strategies for achieving sustainable poverty reduction.
4.
PESTEL Analysis: FactorsInfluencing
Poverty Worldwide
Political
Government stability,
corruption levels, policy
frameworks, trade
regulations, international
relations, political instability,
war.
Economic
Economic growth, inflation
rates, employment levels,
income distribution, trade
imbalances, interest rates,
taxation.
Social
Population growth,
education levels, cultural
norms, health disparities,
social inequality, access to
opportunities, urbanization.
Technological
Technological
advancements, access to
information, innovation,
automation, research and
development, technology
transfer.
Environmental
Climate change, natural
disasters, resource
depletion, pollution,
environmental degradation,
sustainable practices.
Legal
Property rights, contract
enforcement, labor laws,
regulatory frameworks,
human rights protection,
rule of law, corruption
regulation.
5.
Real-Life Situations: CaseStudies of Poverty-Stricken Communities
Mumbai, India
Dharavi, one of Asia's largest slums, is home to over a million people living in cramped
conditions with limited access to basic services. Despite the challenges, the community
exhibits resilience and entrepreneurial spirit, with numerous small-scale industries
operating within the slum.
Rural Malawi, Africa
Many rural communities in Malawi face persistent poverty due to limited access to
education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Subsistence farming is the primary
livelihood, making communities vulnerable to climate change and crop failures.
Examining real-life situations through case studies provides valuable insights into the complexities of poverty and the diverse challenges faced by vulnerable communities around
the world. These examples highlight the need for tailored interventions that address the specific needs and contexts of each community.
6.
The Impact ofPoverty on Health and Education
Health
Poverty has a devastating impact on
health, leading to malnutrition,
increased risk of infectious diseases,
limited access to healthcare services,
and higher mortality rates. Poor
sanitation and living conditions
further exacerbate health problems.
Education
Poverty restricts access to quality
education, perpetuating the cycle of
poverty across generations. Children
from impoverished families are more
likely to drop out of school, lack
essential skills, and face limited
employment opportunities. Investing
in education is crucial for breaking
the cycle of poverty.
Interconnectedness
The relationship between health and
education is mutually reinforcing.
Improved health outcomes lead to
better school attendance and
academic performance, while higher
education levels promote healthier
lifestyles and greater awareness of
health issues.
7.
Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) and Poverty
Eradication
SDG 1: No Poverty
End poverty in all its forms everywhere.
1
SDG 2: Zero Hunger
End hunger, achieve food security and
improved nutrition and promote
sustainable agriculture.
2
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-
being
Ensure healthy lives and promote well-
being for all at all ages.
3
SDG 4: Quality Education
Ensure inclusive and equitable quality
education and promote lifelong learning
opportunities for all.
4
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), adopted by the United Nations in 2015, provide a comprehensive framework for addressing
global challenges, including poverty eradication. SDG 1 specifically aims to end poverty in all its forms everywhere by 2030. Achieving this
ambitious goal requires integrated efforts across multiple sectors.
8.
Strategies for PovertyAlleviation: A Multi-
Faceted Approach
1 Economic Growth
Promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth that creates jobs and opportunities
for all.
2 Education
Investing in quality education and skills development to empower individuals and
communities.
3 Healthcare
Improving access to healthcare services and promoting healthy lifestyles.
4 Social Protection
Providing social safety nets and support for vulnerable populations.
Poverty alleviation requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of poverty and
promotes sustainable development. Key strategies include promoting economic growth, investing in
education and healthcare, providing social protection, and empowering marginalized communities. These
strategies must be tailored to the specific needs and contexts of each region and community.
9.
Challenges and Opportunitiesin the
Fight Against Poverty
1 Challenges
Limited resources, corruption, political
instability, climate change, pandemics,
war, and inequality hinder poverty
reduction efforts.
2 Opportunities
Technological innovations, sustainable
development initiatives, growing
awareness, international cooperation,
and inclusive economic growth offer
opportunities to accelerate poverty
reduction.
3 Addressing Challenges
Tackling challenges requires strong governance, transparency, accountability, and
inclusive policies that prioritize the needs of the most vulnerable.
Despite the progress made in reducing poverty over the past few decades, significant
challenges remain. Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort from
governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector. By working
together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
10.
Conclusion: The RoadAhead and References
Global poverty remains a pressing issue that demands urgent attention and concerted action. By understanding the
complexities of poverty, conducting thorough analyses, and implementing effective strategies, we can make significant
progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and creating a more equitable world for all. The road ahead
requires sustained commitment, innovative solutions, and collaborative partnerships.
References:
World Bank: https://www.worldbank.org/
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme): https://www.undp.org/