IB Global Politics Poverty Notes

Defining Poverty

1. Absolute Poverty:

1. A condition where individuals lack the basic necessities for survival, such as food, clean water, shelter, and healthcare.
2. Measurement: Often defined by the World Bank as living on less than \$2.15 per day (as of 2022).

2. Relative Poverty:

1. A condition where individuals lack the resources to participate fully in the society in which they live.
2. Measurement: Often defined as living below a certain percentage (e.g., 50%) of a country's median income.

3. Multidimensional Poverty:

1. A broader concept that considers multiple deprivations, such as education, health, and living standards.
2. Measurement: The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) is a key tool for assessing this form of poverty.

Causes of Poverty

1. Economic Factors:
   1. Unemployment and Underemployment: Lack of job opportunities or low-paying jobs trap individuals in poverty.
   2. Inequality: Unequal distribution of wealth and resources exacerbates poverty.
   3. Globalization: While it can create opportunities, globalization can also lead to job losses in certain sectors and increase economic vulnerability.
2. Political Factors:
   1. Governance and Corruption: Weak institutions and corruption can hinder economic development and the equitable distribution of resources.
   2. Conflict and Instability: War and political instability disrupt economies and displace populations, leading to poverty.
3. Social Factors:
   1. Education and Skills: Lack of access to quality education limits economic opportunities.