In a world teeming with possibilities and progress, the persistence of extreme poverty remains a stark reality. The United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has set an audacious goal: eradicating extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030. This ambitious mission is encapsulated in the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 2030) 1, and it is one that demands our collective attention and action. In this article, we will dive deep into the critical issue of extreme poverty, its resurgence in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore why it matters to all of us.

Extreme Poverty: A Global Challenge

Extreme poverty, as defined by surviving on less than $2.15 per person per day at 2017 purchasing power parity, has been steadily declining over the past few decades. This remarkable progress has been a testament to human ingenuity, global cooperation, and tireless efforts to uplift the most vulnerable among us. However, the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has cast a long shadow over these gains.

The COVID-19 Turning Point

The world watched in disbelief as the pandemic unfolded, affecting nearly every corner of the globe. Amid the chaos, there was an alarming reversal of fortune for millions. Extreme poverty, which had been on a downward trajectory, suddenly spiked, pushing nearly 90 million people back into its cruel grip. It was a stark reminder that our fight against poverty is far from won.

Slowing Momentum

Even before the pandemic struck, there were signs that the momentum in poverty reduction was waning. By the end of 2022, predictions suggested that 8.4 percent of the world's population, or a staggering 670 million individuals, could still be living in extreme poverty. This setback effectively erased approximately three years of progress in poverty alleviation.

A Daunting Future

If current trends persist, an estimated 7 percent of the global population around 575 million people could find themselves trapped in extreme poverty by 2030. This impending crisis is particularly concentrated in sub-Saharan Africa, where the battle against extreme poverty is most intense.

Hunger and Food Insecurity: A Twin Challenge

While extreme poverty is a formidable foe, it is not the only adversary on the battlefield. A shocking revelation is the resurgence of hunger levels to those last observed in 2005. Equally concerning is the persistent increase in food prices across a larger number of countries compared to the period from 2015 to 2019. This dual challenge of poverty and food security poses a critical global concern.

Understanding the Roots of Poverty

Why is There So Much Poverty?

Poverty is a multi-faceted problem, with roots that run deep into the socio-economic fabric of society. It is not merely about the lack of money; it is about the lack of opportunities and the perpetuation of inequality. Some of the key causes of poverty include:

• ·Unemployment: A lack of access to gainful employment is a major driver of poverty. When people cannot find work, they struggle to meet their basic needs.

• Social Exclusion: Discrimination and exclusion based on factors like race, gender, or disability can trap individuals and communities in poverty.

• ·Vulnerability to Disasters and Diseases: Certain populations are more vulnerable to disasters, diseases, and other phenomena. When these events strike, they can wipe out years of progress and push people deeper into poverty.

Why Should I Care About Other People's Economic Situation?

You might wonder why you should be concerned about poverty that seems far removed from your own life. The truth is, we are all connected, and the well-being of society at large affects each of us individually. Here are some compelling reasons why you should care:

• Economic Growth: Growing inequality hampers economic growth. When a significant portion of the population is trapped in poverty, it limits their ability to contribute to the economy.
  
  

• Social Cohesion: Poverty erodes social cohesion. It creates divisions and tensions within society, which can lead to political and social unrest.
  
  

• Global Stability: In extreme cases, poverty can lead to instability and conflicts. Addressing poverty is essential for fostering a more peaceful world.

The Role of Social Protection

Why is Social Protection So Important?

Strong social protection systems are a linchpin in the fight against poverty. These systems are essential for mitigating the effects of crises and preventing many people from falling into poverty. Unfortunately, despite the expansion of social protection during the COVID-19 crisis, a staggering 55 percent of the world's population, approximately 4 billion people, are entirely unprotected.

Short-Term Measures vs. Long-Term Solutions

In response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, 105 countries and territories announced almost 350 social protection measures between February 2022 and February 2023. However, a concerning 80 percent of these measures were short-term in nature. To achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda, countries must implement nationally appropriate universal and sustainable social protection systems for all.

What Can You Do About It?

Your Active Engagement Matters

You might be wondering how you, as an individual, can contribute to such a monumental task. Well, your active engagement in policy making can make a significant difference in addressing poverty. Here's how:

• Promote Your Rights: Active engagement ensures that your rights are promoted and protected. It allows you to hold decision-makers accountable for their actions.
  
  

• Raise Your Voice: When you engage in the political process, your voice is heard. It's a way to make sure your concerns and perspectives are taken into account.
  
  

• Share Knowledge Across Generations: Inter-generational knowledge sharing is essential. It ensures that the wisdom of the past is not lost and that innovative solutions are encouraged.
  
  

• Support Innovation: Critical thinking and innovation are vital to addressing poverty effectively. Your engagement can help foster an environment where new ideas and approaches can thrive.
  
  

The Role of Governments

Governments play a pivotal role in creating an enabling environment to generate productive employment and job opportunities for the poor and marginalized. Policy decisions can shape the economic landscape and impact poverty rates significantly.

The Private Sector's Responsibility

The private sector also has a major role to play in determining whether the growth it creates is inclusive and contributes to poverty reduction. It can actively promote economic opportunities for the poor through ethical business practices and corporate social responsibility.

The Power of Science

Science has been a game-changer in the fight against poverty. It has 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 continue to hold the key to solving some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Conclusion

The goal of eradicating extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030 is not a mere aspiration but a moral imperative. It is a call to action that requires the collective efforts of individuals, governments, businesses, and the scientific community. We must recognize that our well-being is intricately linked to the well-being of others, and by addressing extreme poverty, we create a more just, equitable, and prosperous world for everyone. The challenges are immense, but the rewards are immeasurable. Together, we can turn the tide and ensure that the 2030 Agenda becomes a reality.