Poverty is one of the most enduring and complex challenges in human history. Despite remarkable
advances in science, technology, medicine, education, and economic development, millions of
people across the world continue to struggle with inadequate income, hunger, poor health, limited
educational opportunities, insecure employment, and social exclusion. Poverty affects not only
individuals and families but also the broader social, economic, and political fabric of nations.
It limits human potential, weakens communities, hinders development, and threatens social
stability. The subject of poverty has occupied the attention of philosophers, economists, political
leaders, social reformers, and development practitioners for centuries. Yet poverty remains
difficult to define and even more difficult to eliminate because it is not merely an economic
condition.
Poverty is multidimensional. It involves the absence of resources, opportunities, capabilities,
security, and dignity. It affects how people live, learn, work, participate in society, and envision
their future.