Global Goal 1: No Poverty - Achieving an End to Poverty Worldwide

March 4, 2023
Global Goal 1: No Poverty - Achieving an End to Poverty Worldwide

Global Goal 1, also known as "No Poverty," is a part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that aims to end poverty in all its forms worldwide. It recognizes that poverty is a significant problem that impacts not just individuals and families but entire communities and societies. 

The goal is to create a world where everyone has access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and shelter, and can live a life of dignity and opportunity. In this post, we will define the problem, discuss examples of poverty, describe each of the SDG 1 targets, and explain how individuals can contribute to achieving the goal of no poverty.

The Problem of Poverty

Poverty is a pervasive problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a complex issue that can be defined in various ways, but the United Nations has defined poverty as a lack of access to basic human needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education. 

Poverty also encompasses social exclusion, a lack of participation in decision-making, and a lack of access to justice and basic human rights. Poverty is not just an economic issue, but a social one, too.

Poverty takes many forms, and its effects are often interrelated. Some examples of poverty include:

  • Lack of access to basic needs such as food, shelter, and clean water
  • Limited access to education and healthcare
  • Social exclusion and discrimination
  • Lack of political representation and participation
  • Unequal access to economic opportunities and resources
  • Vulnerability to economic, environmental, and social shocks

SDG 1 Targets

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a comprehensive framework for achieving a sustainable and equitable future for all. SDG 1 includes seven targets that provide specific objectives for achieving the goal of no poverty:

1.1 By 2030, eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere, currently measured as people living on less than $1.25 a day. 

1.2 By 2030, reduce at least by half the proportion of men, women, and children of all ages living in poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions.

1.3 Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable. 

1.4 By 2030, ensure that all men and women, in particular, the poor and the vulnerable, have equal rights to economic resources, as well as access to basic services, ownership, and control over land and other forms of property, inheritance, natural resources, appropriate new technology, and financial services, including microfinance. 

1.5 By 2030, build the resilience of the poor and those in vulnerable situations and reduce their exposure and vulnerability to climate-related extreme events and other economic, social, and environmental shocks and disasters. 

1.a Ensure significant mobilization of resources from a variety of sources, including through enhanced development cooperation, to provide adequate and predictable means for developing countries, in particular, least developed countries, to implement programs and policies to end poverty in all its dimensions. 

1.b Create sound policy frameworks at the national, regional, and international levels, based on pro-poor and gender-sensitive development strategies, to support accelerated investment in poverty eradication actions.

How Can You Contribute to Achieving No Poverty?

Achieving No Poverty requires the collective effort of governments, NGOs, businesses, and individuals. Here are some ways you can contribute to the achievement of this global goal:

  1. Donate to Organizations Fighting Poverty: There are many organizations working to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development. Consider donating to these organizations to support their work.
  2. Support Fair Trade: Buying products that are certified as Fair Trade can help support farmers and producers in developing countries, providing them with better working conditions and a fair price for their goods.
  3. Educate Yourself and Others: Educate yourself and others about poverty, its causes, and its impact on people's lives. Learn about the policies and practices that contribute to poverty and support those that aim to alleviate it.
  4. Support Social Protection Systems: Support policies and programs that aim to expand social protection systems, including floors, to ensure that everyone has access to basic services and social security.
  5. Advocate for Policy Changes: Advocate for policies and practices that promote equality, reduce inequality, and alleviate poverty. Support policies that promote fair taxation, equal access to resources, and environmental sustainability.

In conclusion, No Poverty is a critical global goal that requires collective effort and a comprehensive approach to address the root causes and alleviate the impacts of poverty. By supporting policies and programs that promote sustainable development, we can work towards creating a world where everyone has access to basic services, resources, and opportunities to live a dignified life.