International Day for the Eradication of Poverty
A meaningful understanding of poverty acknowledges it as a complex, multi-dimensional issue that encompasses a range of factors, including economic, social, health, environmental, cultural, and political dimensions. Effectively addressing poverty necessitates comprehensive strategies to increase income, enhance education, improve healthcare access, and promote social and political equity. By appreciating the full scope of poverty, policymakers and organisations can develop more effective interventions that empower individuals and communities to break the cycle of poverty.
Traditionally, poverty is gauged primarily by income, with individuals and families deemed impoverished if their earnings fall below a specific threshold. However, on this International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, it’s vital to note that numerous indicators of poverty also demand attention. For instance, limited access to quality education can perpetuate cycles of poverty. Education plays a pivotal role in economic mobility and opens doors to improved job opportunities, making it a crucial factor in breaking the poverty cycle.
Moreover, poverty is often associated with inadequate access to health care, which can lead to untreated medical conditions that hinder individuals’ ability to work and thrive. A particularly troubling manifestation of poverty can be seen in the form of social and institutional maltreatment—abuse or neglect occurring within social or institutional settings such as schools, healthcare facilities, community organisations, and other formal structures. This maltreatment can affect individuals across various age groups and backgrounds, typically manifesting through neglect, mistreatment, or discrimination by those in positions of authority or power.
Social maltreatment occurs within social contexts, often stemming from societal norms, discrimination, or exclusion. It may manifest as bullying, social isolation, stigmatisation, or a lack of support within a community. Conversely, institutional maltreatment refers to neglect or abuse occurring within formal institutions, such as schools, hospitals, or care facilities. This form of maltreatment can include inadequate care, failure to provide essential services, or abusive practices by staff members.
Individuals who experience social and institutional maltreatment may endure a range of negative consequences, including mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and social withdrawal. Long-term exposure to such maltreatment can have lasting effects on personal development and overall well-being.
It is important to remember that institutions have a legal and ethical responsibility to protect the individuals they serve from maltreatment. Laws and regulations are in place to ensure that cases of abuse or neglect are reported and addressed. This emphasis on vigilance and accountability within these organisations should provide reassurance that steps are being taken to protect those at risk.
As we reflect on the significance of the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, let us recognise that other ways of defining poverty have been neglected. Additionally, these issues are best handled holistically if society is to eradicate all forms of poverty, as advocated for in the sustainability development goal (SDG) outlined by SDG1. By addressing economic deprivation and the underlying social, health, and institutional factors perpetuating inequality, we can work towards creating a more equitable and just society for all.
