Is SDG-1's Goal of Eradicating Poverty Achievable in Today's World?

Widespread Global Poverty:

Poverty is a multifaceted issue deeply rooted in a complex social, economic, and political web. Key causes include unemployment, social exclusion, and the high vulnerability of certain populations to disasters, diseases, and other phenomena that inhibit their ability to be productive. Globally, about 8.4% of the world's population lives on less than $2.15 per day, the international poverty line set by the World Bank (World Bank, 2021).

Unemployment is a significant driver of poverty. When individuals cannot secure jobs, they lack the income to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. In many low- and middle-income countries, the informal sector dominates the job market, often characterized by low wages, lack of job security, and poor working conditions. According to the International Labour Organization (ILO), nearly 2 billion workers, or 61% of the world's employed population, were in informal employment in 2018 (ILO, 2018).

Social exclusion further exacerbates poverty. Marginalized groups, including women, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities, often face systemic barriers to education, employment, and political participation. For example, women globally earn approximately 77 cents for every dollar earned by men, reflecting persistent gender inequalities (UN Women, 2020).

Moreover, the high vulnerability of certain populations to disasters and diseases significantly contributes to poverty. Climate change-induced disasters such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes disproportionately affect poor communities, destroying homes, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure. According to the United Nations, disasters push an estimated 26 million people into poverty each year (UN, 2016).

Care About Other People’s Economic Situation:

Caring about other people's economic situations is essential for several reasons. As human beings, our well-being is interconnected. Growing inequality is detrimental to economic growth and undermines social cohesion, increasing political and social tensions and, in some circumstances, driving instability and conflicts.

Economic disparities can lead to social unrest and conflict. For instance, studies have shown that countries with higher levels of inequality are more likely to experience civil unrest and violence (UNDP, 2013). Additionally, economic inequality can hinder overall economic growth. When large segments of the population are excluded from economic opportunities, the potential for innovation and productivity is significantly reduced.

Furthermore, a more equitable society tends to have better health outcomes, higher levels of education, and greater overall life satisfaction. Addressing poverty and inequality can lead to a more stable, prosperous, and harmonious society.

Social Protection is Important:

Strong social protection systems are essential for mitigating the effects of poverty and preventing many people from falling into it. The COVID-19 pandemic had both immediate and long-term economic consequences for people across the globe. Despite the expansion of social protection during the COVID-19 crisis, 55% of the world’s population—about 4 billion people—are entirely unprotected (ILO, 2021).

In response to the cost-of-living crisis, 105 countries and territories announced almost 350 social protection measures between February 2022 and February 2023. Yet 80% of these were short-term in nature. To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), countries need to implement nationally appropriate, universal, and sustainable social protection systems for all (UN, 2023).

Social protection measures, such as unemployment benefits, health insurance, and pensions, provide a safety net that helps individuals and families maintain a basic standard of living during times of economic hardship. These systems are crucial for reducing poverty and inequality, improving health outcomes, and promoting social cohesion.

We Can Do It:

Your active engagement in policymaking can make a significant difference in addressing poverty. Ensuring that your rights are promoted and that your voice is heard can drive positive change. Participation in the political process, such as voting, advocating for policies that address poverty, and supporting organizations that work towards social justice, are all ways to contribute.

Governments play a crucial role in creating an enabling environment that generates productive employment and job opportunities for the poor and marginalized. Policies that promote inclusive economic growth, improve access to education and healthcare, and strengthen social protection systems are vital.

The private sector also has a major role to play in poverty reduction. Businesses can promote economic opportunities for the poor by adopting inclusive business models, providing fair wages, and investing in communities. Corporate social responsibility initiatives can also contribute to social and economic development.

The contribution of science and technology to ending poverty has been significant. For example, innovations have enabled access to safe drinking water, reduced deaths caused by water-borne diseases, and improved hygiene to reduce health risks related to unsafe drinking water and lack of sanitation. Scientific advancements in agriculture, health, and education continue to provide solutions that can alleviate poverty and improve quality of life.

Conclusion

Poverty is a complex issue with deep-rooted causes, but addressing it is crucial for creating a more equitable, stable, and prosperous world. By understanding the multifaceted nature of poverty, recognizing our interconnectedness, supporting strong social protection systems, and actively engaging in efforts to combat poverty, we can contribute to meaningful change. Governments, the private sector, and individuals all have roles to play in this collective effort to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development.

References

·         World Bank. (2021). Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2020: Reversals of Fortune.

·         International Labour Organization (ILO). (2018). Women and Men in the Informal Economy: A Statistical Picture.

·         UN Women. (2020). Gender Equality: Women’s Rights in Review 25 Years after Beijing.

·         United Nations. (2016). The Human Cost of Weather-Related Disasters 1995-2015.

·         United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). (2013). Humanity Divided: Confronting Inequality in Developing Countries.

·         International Labour Organization (ILO). (2021). World Social Protection Report 2020-22.

·         United Nations. (2023). Sustainable Development Goals Report 2023.