1. Material Deprivation:
* Lack of Basic Needs: This is the most common understanding of poverty. It refers to the inability to meet fundamental needs like adequate food, clean water, housing, clothing, healthcare, and education.
* Limited Resources: Poverty is often characterized by a lack of financial resources, assets, and opportunities. This can include low income, unemployment, limited access to credit, and inadequate infrastructure.
2. Social and Economic Exclusion:
* Lack of Power and Agency: Poverty can lead to marginalization and powerlessness. Individuals and communities experiencing poverty may lack access to decision-making processes, political participation, and social support networks.
* Discrimination and Stigma: Poverty can be associated with prejudice and discrimination, leading to social exclusion and limited opportunities for advancement.
3. Multidimensional Poverty:
* Beyond Income: While income is a significant factor, poverty encompasses more than just financial hardship. It can involve various dimensions, including health, education, nutrition, sanitation, and access to essential services.
* Vulnerability and Risk: Poverty often makes individuals and communities more vulnerable to shocks and stresses, such as natural disasters, economic downturns, and health crises.
Measuring Poverty:
* Poverty Lines: These are income thresholds used to determine who is considered poor. However, poverty lines can vary significantly depending on the country, region, and definition used.
* Multidimensional Poverty Indices (MPI): These indices consider multiple dimensions of poverty, such as health, education, and living standards, to provide a more comprehensive picture.
Understanding Poverty:
* Context Matters: Poverty is a complex phenomenon influenced by a multitude of factors, including historical, political, social, and economic contexts.
* It's Not Just About Individuals: Poverty is often rooted in systemic inequalities, such as discrimination, lack of access to resources, and inadequate government policies.
* Solutions Require Collaboration: Addressing poverty requires a multi-pronged approach that involves government, civil society, businesses, and individuals working together.
It's important to remember that poverty is a human issue with real consequences for individuals, families, and communities.