A new United Nations report released today reveals uneven global progress in reducing poverty, a core target of SDG 1. While some regions have seen notable declines in extreme poverty rates, others continue to face significant challenges exacerbated by recent economic shocks and climate-related disasters.
According to the report, East Asia and the Pacific have recorded a decline in extreme poverty levels to below 5%, whereas Sub-Saharan Africa still grapples with rates exceeding 35%. The report attributes these disparities to factors including conflict, limited social protection coverage, and uneven economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The UN calls for intensified policy efforts focusing on inclusive economic growth, social safety nets, and climate adaptation measures. The report also stresses the importance of international cooperation to address systemic inequalities that hinder poverty eradication.
Experts warn that without accelerated action, the goal of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030 remains at risk, particularly as new global challenges emerge.

UN