MADISON, WI — Jeffrey Sachs, one of the world’s most renowned economists, wrote a novel entitled The End of Poverty which explains why the poorest countries in the world have been unable to improve their economies.
One reason is poverty traps. A poverty trap is a “spiraling mechanism which forces people to remain poor” and offers no escape from poverty. Here is a list of the most common “poverty traps.”
Government Corruption
When governments are corrupt, they do not serve their constituents to the best of their ability. This cycle of poor governing dooms people to a life of poverty.
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Source: Jeffrey Sachs
Lack of Infrastructure
Without infrastructure, people lack access to basic needs like clean water, hospitals, roads and schools. Infrastructure is a tool for the people; without infrastructure, it is nearly impossible to escape poverty.
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Source: Jeffrey Sachs
Gender Inequality
Unfair treatment and subordination of women contributes to the perpetuation of poverty. When women are not allowed to contribute to their economies and communities, everyone suffers.
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Source: Jeffrey Sachs
Lack of Education
Education is a gift, one that many people don’t receive. Without good governing or infrastructure, there are no schools, and education is a key determinant in ending poverty.
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Sources: Jeffrey Sachs
Overpopulation
Overpopulation creates competition for access to resources and jobs. It is no wonder that some of the poorest cities in the world also happen to be the most overpopulated.
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Sources: Jeffrey Sachs
Poor Health
Poor health prevents people from participating in self-bettering tasks such as obtaining a job or education, and cyclical poverty prevents people from having access to hospitals and medication. Poor health is an endless cycle that only reinforces poverty.
Photo: Bergen Health
Sources: Jeffrey Sachs
War
War leaves countries in upheaval and turmoil. When people are scared for their lives, they become unable to obtain economic stability. War is a battle between opposing forces, but the true losers are the innocent victims caught in-between.
Photo: The Telegraph
Source: Jeffrey Sachs
– Sarah Dalgleish
Article Source: Jeffrey Sachs
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