Doha: HE Acting Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Haoliang Xu, emphasized that eradicating poverty and achieving prosperity require integrated policies that enhance human capabilities and expand social safety nets. Xu made these remarks at a press conference during the Second World Summit for Social Development, where the UNDP launched its new policy paper, “Poverty-to-Prosperity Transitions.”
According to Qatar News Agency, Xu highlighted that while over 1.5 billion people have escaped poverty in the last thirteen years, approximately 10 percent of the global population continues to live below the poverty line, defined as a daily income of no more than $3.30. Additionally, nearly 30 percent are vulnerable to falling back into poverty due to economic or social shocks.
Xu elaborated that the new policy paper offers practical policies and tools aimed at lifting over 400 million people out of extreme poverty by enhancing social protection systems, expanding employment opportunities, and investing in education, training, and human capital development.
He cited international experiences, such as those of Mexico and Albania, demonstrating that coordinated implementation of these policies can lead to positive social and economic outcomes without compromising labor markets or financial stability.
Xu concluded by underscoring that the objective extends beyond merely combating poverty. It also involves building more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable societies that provide equal opportunities for all individuals to prosper.