Köyhyysrajojen

Köyhyysrajat (poverty lines) are statistical thresholds used to define and measure poverty within a population. They represent a minimum level of income or consumption deemed necessary to meet basic needs. There are various methodologies for establishing these lines, broadly categorized into absolute and relative poverty.

Absolute poverty lines are based on the cost of a basket of essential goods and services, such as food, housing, clothing, and healthcare. This approach aims to determine a level of subsistence below which individuals or households cannot afford the minimum requirements for survival. For example, the World Bank uses an international poverty line, currently set at a certain amount of purchasing power parity per day, to compare poverty levels across different countries.

Relative poverty lines, on the other hand, are defined in relation to the average income or living standards within a particular society. Someone is considered relatively poor if their income falls below a certain percentage, often 50% or 60%, of the median household income in their country. This approach reflects the idea that poverty is not just about lacking basic necessities but also about being excluded from the general standard of living enjoyed by the majority.

The choice of poverty line significantly impacts poverty statistics and policy decisions. Absolute poverty lines highlight extreme deprivation, while relative poverty lines focus on social exclusion and inequality. Different countries and organizations use their own specific poverty lines, making international comparisons complex. Understanding these different approaches is crucial for analyzing poverty trends and designing effective social welfare programs.