Editorial

In this new edition of Dimensions we will show how countries around the world are increasingly turning to multidimensional measures to assess people’s well-being, shedding light on previously overlooked deprivations.

One of the pioneering countries in the application of these multidimensional approaches is Bhutan, where the pursuit of Gross National Happiness (GNH) occupies a central place. Sabina Alkire and Tshoki Zangmo delve into this unique concept in our first article of this edition.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has taken an important step in the fight against multidimensional poverty. In this issue’s interview, D Dilshanie Deepawansa tells us about the country’s efforts to uncover the extent of poverty beyond mere income levels. The launch of a child Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) directly linked to the national MPI reflects Sri Lanka’s commitment to address poverty holistically and improve the lives of vulnerable sectors of society.

In the South Pacific, Papaliitele Fasavalu Benjamin Sila examines Samoa’s approach to assessing poverty. Through the MPI, Samoa recognizes the interconnectedness of the various deprivations faced by its citizens.

In addition, Alida Marcela Gutiérrez Landeros and Jesús Emanuel Paredes Romero explore Mexico’s efforts to measure multidimensional poverty at the local level. By considering poverty in small areas, such as municipalities, Mexico gains valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by its diverse communities.

At the global level, Ricardo Nogales presents MPI deprivation profiles. These profiles provide crucial data for designing specific policies.

The Global MPI 2023 Report: Unstacking global poverty: Data for high impact action was recently launched. Here is a summary of the update on the state of multidimensional poverty in 110 countries.

We invite you to read Dimensions.

 

This article was published in Dimensions 15