UN chief says poverty is cause, consequence of social exclusion

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Monday that poverty is both a cause and consequence of social exclusion, while calling for addressing social inequalities to lift people out of extreme poverty.

In his message on International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Ban said humiliation and exclusion are powerful drivers of social unrest and, in extreme cases, the violent extremism that is troubling so many parts of the world.

He further noted that poverty is not simply measured by inadequate income; it is also manifested in restricted access to health, education and other essential services.

UN statistics show some 1 billion people live in extreme poverty and more than 800 million endure hunger and malnutrition in today's world.

"We must break down the walls of poverty and exclusion that plague so many people in every region of the world," said Ban. "We must build inclusive societies that promote participation by all."

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty is observed annually on Oct. 17 to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty in all countries.

This year, the theme for the day is "Moving from humiliation and exclusion to participation: Ending poverty in all its forms." Enditem