On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, 17 October, we pause to reflect on the challenges and aspirations of countless individuals worldwide who continue to grapple with the harsh realities of poverty. October 17th serves as a powerful reminder that poverty is a persistent issue that demands our collective attention and action.
The statistics surrounding poverty can be stark. Today, over 9% of the world's population, roughly 700 million people, live on less than $1.90 a day, which is the international threshold for extreme poverty. Despite progress in recent years, the prevalence of poverty remains a grave concern, especially in developing nations.
In the context of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Agenda 2030, the eradication of poverty is central to our global mission. Specifically, Goal 1: No Poverty aims to end poverty in all its forms everywhere by 2030. This goal underscores the commitment of the international community to combat the multifaceted challenges posed by poverty.
Poverty is not just an economic issue; it is a human rights issue. It strips individuals of their dignity, access to basic necessities, and opportunities for a better life. Poverty often perpetuates a cycle of limited access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, further exacerbating the problem.
Additionally, poverty has ripple effects, impacting not only the individuals directly affected but also their communities and societies as a whole. It hampers economic growth, fosters inequality, and impedes the overall development of nations. Poverty is a complex issue, and to tackle it effectively, we must work together on multiple fronts.
The first step in eradicating poverty is to promote sustainable, inclusive, and equitable economic growth. A shift toward a greener economy is crucial in creating the estimated 600 million new jobs needed by 2030 just to keep pace with the growth of the global working-age population (Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Improving conditions for the 780 million working poor is a priority if we want them to lift themselves and their families out of $2-a-day poverty (Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Structural transformation through industrialization is a key driver of sustainable economic growth, job creation, and poverty eradication, particularly in low-income, developing countries (Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). International cooperation is essential in assisting countries in overcoming challenges such as a lack of industrial capacity, technology, and low productivity.
On this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let us remember that we have the tools, the knowledge, and the global commitment to combat poverty effectively. The SDGs Agenda 2030 is our roadmap to a world where no one is left behind, and poverty is consigned to history.
More information: https://www.un.org/en/observances/day-for-eradicating-poverty
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