Measures of poverty and its determinants in the Arab countries

Abstract

All reports show that Arab countries are dominated by high levels of multidimensional poverty rate, especially the least developed countries that suffer from conflict (Yemen, Sudan and Libya). They also tend to have higher levels of inequality in both outcomes and opportunities. The rate of extreme poverty exceeds the global average and averages in other developing regions. The number of poor in the ten countries covered by the Arab report on multidimensional poverty is about 40.6 percent (116.1 million. (The international multidimensional poverty index is 20.6 per cent. The regional average severity of poverty (severity of poverty index) is about 50 percent for both extreme poverty and poverty. Among the main causes of poverty and human suffering is the lack of governance in a transparent and accountable manner in all its human, natural, economic and financial aspects, and in managing resources for the purposes of equitable and sustainable development. And in light of a set of economic, political and social determinants, Arab countries need to develop and implement comprehensive development programs and policies that are run by strong national and local institutions targeting the most vulnerable and marginalized people (inclusive growth and non-discrimination), with everyone participating in decision-making processes (participation) and permitting monitoring of economic policy options (accountability and transparency).