2.PZAMBIAMEASUREMENT,LEVELSANDTRENDS.pdfVIP

Discussion Draft 2. POVERTY IN ZAMBIA : MEASUREMENT, LEVELS, AND TRENDS A. Introduction 2.1 This chapter examines poverty—broadly defined as unacceptable deprivation in well- being—in terms of material deprivation, human deprivation, vulnerability, destitution, and social isolation. It draws on a range of data sources and methods to define the extent of poverty in the state, as well as shed light on recent trends in poverty. 2.2 Poverty cannot be understood in terms of a single indicator or measurement methodology. Consequently, this Assessment takes a multidimensional view of poverty and draws upon a variety of information to analyze the situation faced by the poor in Zambia. The broad definition of poverty used here includes three components – poverty of private resources, poverty of public goods and services, and poverty of relationships. Poverty of private resources refers to lack of access to both material assets and human capital—health, education, and skills. The poor also suffer from poverty of access to public goods and services like schools, roads, clean water and security. Finally, many of the poor suffer from poverty of social relations and networks. The very poor often belong to fewer social networks and informal systems of support; some are even isolated from their kinship networks and close family members. All three of these components should be taken into account to fully understand poverty in Zambia. To present a full picture of poverty, this Chapter draws upon both qualitative and quantitative information drawn from both nationally representative household surveys and from in-depth participatory studies. Where possible, comparisons between multiple data sources are made. B. Self-Assessed Poverty