THE world and its resources are for everyone.
However, poverty has jeopardized society’s well-being worldwide.
It’s unfortunate, but this threat is man-made.
Poverty deprives individuals of access to opportunities, disrupts social cohesion and erodes the stability of societies on a global scale.
Far more than a lack of income, poverty limits freedom, access and development, thereby deepening inequality, threatening global stability and damaging the delicate fabric of social harmony.
Poverty refers to a condition where individuals lack the financial resources and capabilities to enjoy a minimum standard of life.
Global Stability signifies a condition of worldwide peace, order and cooperation among nations.
Social Harmony refers to a state where various groups within society coexist peacefully, enjoying mutual respect, justice and equitable access to opportunities.
Poverty disrupts all three dimensions, feeding inequality, breeding resentment and fuelling unrest both locally and globally.
Despite global efforts and international goals such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), poverty remains a pressing issue.
As of recent estimates, over 700 million people still live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than $2.15 per day.
Regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, parts of South Asia and war-torn areas in the Middle East bear the heaviest burden.
Poverty denies the poor access to education, healthcare and economic opportunities, while the rich continue to benefit from unimpeded access to resources and growth.
In such unequal systems, the flow of opportunity becomes lopsided—favouring the elite and marginalizing the underprivileged.
As a result, inequality becomes entrenched.
Resultantly, social harmony deteriorates as class divisions widen and society becomes polarized.
While the affluent pursue their dreams and invest in self-growth, the poor often remain stuck in a relentless struggle for survival.
Constant concern for food, shelter and safety limits their capacity for learning, creativity and productivity.
This unequal developmental trajectory between rich and poor widens inequality further.
Over time, the poor are systemically excluded from leadership, decision-making and innovation.
This exclusion leads to resentment and a loss of faith in social institutions, weakening the fabric of society and contributing to global unrest.
Technology and research are at the heart of progress.
However, poverty hinders access to digital tools, modern education and scientific advancement.
Poor communities and nations lag in innovation and development, while affluent societies leap ahead.
This digital and developmental divide reinforces inequality, leaving some nations perpetually dependent on others.
As the technological gap widens, poor countries face greater economic vulnerability, political instability and social unrest—conditions that threaten the global order and social cohesion.
Political systems thrive on participation, representation and reform.
Poverty, however, disenfranchises the poor from political processes.
Limited education, lack of awareness and resource constraints keep them out of the political arena.
As the poor become spectators rather than stakeholders, policies reflect elite interests, further marginalizing disadvantaged groups.
This breeds inequality, undermines democratic values and sows the seeds of instability and social discord.
In impoverished societies, access to resources becomes a battleground.
Social groups—be it along class, ethnic, or regional lines—compete fiercely for limited opportunities.
This concentration of power in the hands of a few not only deepens inequality but also stokes communal tensions.
Fragile states become breeding grounds for insurgency, civil wars and regional conflicts, all of which contribute to global instability.
The absence of inclusive growth and equitable resource distribution poisons social harmony and weakens national unity.
Addressing poverty requires a multi-pronged, holistic approach that empowers individuals, transforms institutions and promotes inclusive growth.
Quality, affordable and accessible education is the bedrock of equality.
Governments and international agencies must prioritize education, particularly for girls and marginalized communities.
Education not only enhances individual capabilities but also creates informed citizens capable of contributing to economic and political systems.
Job creation, support for small businesses, vocational training and fair labour practices can provide sustainable livelihoods for the poor.
Governments must foster inclusive economic policies that bridge urban-rural divides and ensure financial inclusion for all segments of society.
Social protection programs such as conditional cash support, food subsidies, unemployment benefits and universal healthcare systems are critical to buffering the poor from economic shocks.
These programs help stabilize households and prevent the slide into deeper poverty during crises.
Bridging the digital divide is essential to reducing inequality.
Ensuring affordable internet, access to digital devices and digital literacy for the poor can democratize information and open new doors for employment, education and innovation.
Transparent, accountable and inclusive political institutions are vital.
Ensuring that the poor have a voice in governance through grassroots participation, electoral reforms and anti-corruption measures can challenge elite capture and promote policies that reflect the needs of broader population.
Wealthier nations must support poorer countries through fair trade, debt relief, capacity-building and humanitarian aid.
A collective international approach is necessary to tackle poverty as a global threat, not just a national problem.
Poverty is not just a local or national concern—it is a global challenge with far-reaching implications.
By deepening inequality, it weakens the foundations of peace and justice.
By threatening global stability, it imperils the future of nations.
And by eroding social harmony, it undermines the trust and cooperation upon which societies are built.
The world must recognize that overcoming poverty is not charity—it is a necessity for the survival and prosperity of humanity as a whole.
Only by addressing poverty through comprehensive and inclusive policies can we build a more stable, equal and harmonious global society.
—The writer is Commoner from 44th Common Educationist — Founder of WHI Institute. based in Sargodha. (waqarhassancsp@gmail.com)
