Written by: Aurée de Carbon, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
The role of developed countries in achieving poverty eradication. Poverty eradication stands as the foremost Sustainable Development Goal, aiming to eliminate all forms of poverty by 2030. Currently, approximately 700 million individuals endure extreme poverty, struggling to fulfill basic needs such as food, education, healthcare, access to water, and sanitation. This staggering figure predominantly resides in sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia, encompassing 70% of the world's poorest population. Furthermore, lower-middle-income countries like Nigeria, Indonesia, and China are home to 50% of the global poor. However, poverty affects not only developing nations but also developed ones, as evidenced by the presence of 30 million impoverished children in the wealthiest nations worldwide.
The broad scope of poverty arises from a multitude of factors, including unemployment, susceptibility to disasters, social exclusion, diseases, and other impediments that hinder people's productivity.
Consequently, this issue warrants concern from every individual, as the well-being of human beings is interconnected. Escalating inequality poses a threat to economic growth and social cohesion, leading to political tensions, social unrest, conflicts, and instability.
Despite the daunting challenge, renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs believes that extreme poverty can be eradicated globally within two decades. He estimates that the annual cost required for this endeavour is approximately $175 billion, less than 1% of the combined income of the world's wealthiest nations. To achieve this ambitious goal, several measures can be taken.
A significant portion of the impoverished population comprises smallholder farmers, who play a vital role in global food production. Enhancing agricultural development stands as a potent means to eradicate extreme poverty, foster inclusive prosperity, and meet the food demands of a projected global population of 9.7 billion by 2050. The impact of growth in the agricultural sector on poverty reduction is remarkable, with incomes of the poorest segments rising two to four times faster compared to other sectors. Moreover, agriculture plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth, contributing approximately 4% to the global gross domestic product (GDP). In certain least-developed countries, this contribution can surpass 25% of the GDP.
Enhancing farm productivity through improved access to technology, resources, organizations, and markets is crucial for ensuring both food security and poverty eradication. Sustainable practices must be embraced to reduce the ecological impact of food production, preventing land degradation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. Smallholder farmers need access to technology and infrastructure to transform food systems sustainably.
Diversification of employment in non-agricultural sectors is paramount to accelerating poverty reduction in rural and urban areas alike. According to a World Bank report titled "World Development Report 2013: Jobs," diversification of employment away from agriculture is essential for poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth. The report emphasizes that creating employment opportunities in non-agricultural sectors can lead to higher productivity, increased incomes, and improved living standards for individuals in both rural and urban areas. Agricultural growth catalyzes non-farm activities, stimulating local job creation and economic development. Empowering women by providing equal access to education and productive resources is essential to augmenting their purchasing power, particularly in rural and agricultural regions.
However, the burden of poverty eradication cannot rest solely on developing countries. Developed nations must recognize their responsibility to assist those in need. The global community needs to acknowledge that resources are not equally distributed among nations. Rich countries have a moral obligation to support the underprivileged sector, even while addressing their own domestic challenges.
Aid has the potential to both harm and helps development. Rich countries should shift from traditional methods of assistance to new ways that promote sustainable, long-term development. Asian and African nations must formulate comprehensive plans to reduce dependency on aid while fostering self-sufficiency. In return, wealthy nations should align their policies and actions with the interests of the poor, ensuring that their programs do not exacerbate existing inequalities or perpetuate injustices.
True generosity from developed countries extends beyond mere financial aid. It requires fundamental changes in lifestyle and consumption patterns. Rich countries must adhere to the social, environmental, and accounting norms of international companies within their jurisdictions. They should actively adapt to climate change and embrace fairer trade rules. By prioritizing social and environmental responsibility, developed nations can demonstrate genuine support for the less fortunate.
While it is true that poverty exists within rich countries as well, withdrawing support from underprivileged nations abroad is not an ethical solution. Instead, a balanced approach is needed to address poverty both domestically and globally. It is crucial to obtain accurate facts and dispel misconceptions surrounding financial aid and generosity around the world. Rich countries must uphold their responsibility to assist.
Aurée de Carbon, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Aurée is the founder and the owner of CARRHURE, an Executive Search Firm specialized in the Not-for-Profit sector. A French native, Aurée has 30 years of professional experience. Her exceptional empathy, expertise in identifying and assessing candidates as well as her servant leadership style make her approach unique. Prior to establishing CARRHURE, Aurée was Director International for several retained executive search firms where she directed engagements for large NGOs specialized in Agriculture, Climate Change and Health. She began her career managing sales and marketing efforts for French medias and the banking sectors (BNP and HSBC) as Wealth Management Advisor. She holds a BA in Arts from University Paris X and a degree in Communication and Marketing. She is a certified professional Coach, PNL technician and she is certified in several assessment Tools, such as 360° and DISC Model. Aurée is fluent in French and English.
Sources:
Photo source:
