From Allafrica · · 1m 20s
Global Poverty Hits 1.2 Billion Children
UNDP report shows 1.2 billion people in multidimensional poverty, 617 million children affected.
In brief
UNDP report shows 1.2 billion people in multidimensional poverty, 617 million children affected. Global multidimensional poverty reached 1.2 billion people in 2026, with 617 million children affected. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Global Poverty Rises
The number of people living in acute multidimensional poverty worldwide has risen for the first time since a global index was launched in 2010.
1.2 Billion Affected
The 2026 update of the global Multidimensional Poverty Index estimates 1.2 billion people living in multidimensional poverty.
Children at Risk
617 million children account for more than half of those affected by multidimensional poverty.
Rural Challenge
83 per cent of people living in multidimensional poverty live in rural areas.
UNDP Response
UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo urged renewed global action to address interconnected hardships faced by poor households.
Poverty Causes
The rise in global poverty count reflects revised population estimates and shifts in poverty incidence across countries.
Progress in Some Countries
Egypt, Nepal and Tajikistan recorded significant declines in multidimensional poverty rates.
Nigeria's Reversal
Nigeria experienced an increase in multidimensional poverty after making progress during the 2010s.
Sustainable Progress
Eswatini halved multidimensional poverty in 15 years, reducing the rate from 38.7 per cent to 8 per cent.
In short
Global multidimensional poverty reached 1.2 billion people in 2026, with 617 million children affected.
