Eradicating extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030 is a pivotal aim of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to the World Bank, extreme poverty is defined as surviving on less than US$3.00 per person per day at 2021 purchasing power parity. Despite the challenges, this goal is achievable and has the potential to transform the lives of millions of people around the world.
Over the past few decades, the world has made significant progress in reducing extreme poverty. According to the United Nations, extreme poverty has declined from 36% in 1990 to 10% in 2015. This is a remarkable achievement, but there is still a long way to go. In 2025, 808 million people – or 1 in 10 people – are still living in extreme poverty. This is unacceptable and calls for urgent action.
The SDGs, adopted by world leaders in 2015, set out a blueprint for a better and more sustainable future for all. Eradicating extreme poverty is at the heart of these goals, as poverty is not just a lack of income, but also a lack of access to basic needs such as education, healthcare, and clean water. By addressing these underlying issues, we can break the cycle of poverty and create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
One of the key factors that have contributed to the decline in extreme poverty is economic growth. As economies grow, more jobs are created, and people have the means to lift themselves out of poverty. However, economic growth alone is not enough. We must also focus on creating more decent and sustainable jobs, especially in the rural areas where poverty is most prevalent. This will not only reduce poverty but also promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Investing in education is another crucial aspect of eradicating extreme poverty. Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering individuals to improve their lives. It equips people with the necessary skills and knowledge to secure better-paying jobs and build a better future for themselves and their families. Education also plays a vital role in promoting gender equality, as educated women are more likely to enter the workforce and contribute to their communities’ economic growth.
Healthcare is another essential component in the fight against extreme poverty. Many people in poverty-stricken areas lack access to basic healthcare services, leading to preventable deaths and illnesses. Investing in healthcare infrastructure and providing affordable and quality healthcare to all can significantly improve the lives of those living in extreme poverty. It can also reduce the financial burden on families, allowing them to save and invest in other areas, thereby breaking the cycle of poverty.
In addition to these key areas, eradicating extreme poverty also requires addressing other challenges such as climate change, gender inequality, and food insecurity. Climate change disproportionately affects the world’s poorest, who are more vulnerable to its impacts. Therefore, tackling climate change is crucial in reducing poverty and creating a sustainable future for all. Gender inequality, on the other hand, hinders women’s participation in the workforce and limits their access to education and healthcare, perpetuating the cycle of poverty. Breaking down these barriers and promoting gender equality is essential in eradicating extreme poverty.
Food insecurity is also a significant challenge in poverty-stricken areas, with millions of people going hungry every day. To eradicate extreme poverty, we must ensure that everyone has access to nutritious and affordable food. This can be achieved through sustainable agricultural practices, investing in small-scale farmers, and reducing food waste.
Eradicating extreme poverty is not just a moral imperative; it is also crucial for achieving sustainable development. When people are lifted out of poverty, they can contribute to their communities’ economic growth and become agents of change. Therefore, it is essential to involve governments, the private sector, civil society, and individuals in this effort.
In conclusion, eradicating extreme poverty for all people everywhere by 2030 is a pivotal aim of the Sustainable Development Goals. The progress made so far is commendable, but we must not become complacent. We must continue to work together and invest in sustainable solutions to overcome the remaining challenges. By doing so, we can create a world where no one is left behind, and every individual has the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Let us all join hands and strive towards this noble goal, for the betterment of humanity and our planet.
