Eight million people pushed into poverty in four-year period

Eight million people slipped into poverty over a four-year span, according to recent findings that highlight the fragility of economic progress in the region. The sharp increase in poverty headcount reflects mounting challenges including inflation, unemployment, and reduced access to basic services that have eroded household incomes and savings.

The poverty surge has disproportionately affected rural communities and informal sector workers who lack stable employment or social safety nets. Families dependent on agriculture and daily wage labour have been particularly vulnerable to economic shocks and price volatility that have characterised the period.

Economists attribute the decline to a combination of macroeconomic pressures, including currency depreciation, rising commodity costs, and reduced remittance flows from overseas workers. These external factors have compounded domestic challenges in job creation and wage growth.

The findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to support vulnerable populations and rebuild economic resilience. Development experts emphasise that reversing poverty trends will require coordinated efforts across social protection, job creation, and economic stabilisation measures.

Policymakers have acknowledged the urgency of addressing poverty-related challenges, with various proposals under discussion to strengthen safety nets and stimulate inclusive growth in coming years.