Based on the provided data, a significant portion of Pakistan's population lives in poverty, indicating that poverty is a major challenge within the country.
Understanding Poverty Levels in Pakistan
Assessing whether a country "is poor" involves examining various economic and social indicators that reflect the living conditions of its people. The available data provides specific insights into the extent of poverty affecting individuals in Pakistan.
Key Indicators of Poverty in Pakistan (Based on Reference)
The reference provides the following specific data points regarding poverty and related conditions in Pakistan:
| Indicator | Data Point | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Population living below the national poverty line | 21.9% | 2018 |
| Employed population earning below $1.90 Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) a day | 3.5% | 2023 |
| Child mortality rate (deaths per 1,000 live births before age 5) | 61 | 2022 |
What These Numbers Mean
These statistics collectively paint a picture of the poverty situation:
- National Poverty Line: The figure of 21.9% of the population living below the national poverty line in 2018 means that over one-fifth of Pakistan's people did not have the income necessary to meet basic needs as defined by the country's own standards. This indicates a substantial level of poverty affecting millions of citizens.
- Extreme Poverty Among the Employed: The statistic showing 3.5% of the employed population earning less than $1.90 PPP a day in 2023 highlights that even among those who have jobs, a small but significant percentage are living in extreme poverty by international standards. This suggests that employment does not always guarantee an escape from severe deprivation.
- Child Mortality: A high child mortality rate of 61 deaths per 1,000 live births before the age of 5 in 2022 is often closely linked to poverty. Factors such as limited access to healthcare, poor nutrition, inadequate sanitation, and challenging living conditions – all associated with poverty – contribute to vulnerable children facing higher risks.
These indicators demonstrate that poverty is a real and significant issue affecting a large segment of the population in Pakistan. While these specific data points don't categorize the entire nation as "poor" in a simple binary sense, they confirm that poverty is widespread and impacts the lives and well-being of many of its residents.
