The Intelligence from The Economist An epidemic of hunger: covid-19 and poverty
Jun 2, 2020
Kenley Salmon, Africa correspondent for The Economist, discusses how COVID-19 has pushed poverty numbers up for the first time in 20 years, affecting millions as lockdowns ravage traditional coping strategies. Emma Hogan, Editor at The Economist, reflects on the comfort found in reading diaries during tough times, drawing on historical examples. They also explore the environmental implications of China’s hydropower projects on the Mekong River, highlighting the intricate link between health crises and ecological challenges.
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COVID-19's Threat to Poverty Reduction
- COVID-19 threatens the significant reduction in global poverty achieved in recent decades.
- The pandemic's global impact disrupts usual coping mechanisms for the poor, like relying on family or neighbors.
Lockdowns and the Poor
- Lockdowns disproportionately affect the poor, who often lack savings and work-from-home capabilities.
- Governments in poorer countries have limited resources to support their citizens, exacerbating the issue.
Coping Mechanisms of the Poor
- Nathan in Uganda sold livestock due to the pandemic's economic impact.
- Others are selling land or reducing meals, hindering long-term escape from poverty.
