As an expert in global economic trends, I can provide an insightful analysis on the topic of poverty. It's important to note that the issue of poverty is complex and multifaceted, influenced by a wide range of factors including economic growth, income distribution, social policies, and global events.

Step 1: English Answer

Poverty, as a global phenomenon, has been a subject of intense scrutiny and debate. The question of whether poverty is increasing in the world is not one that can be answered with a simple yes or no. It requires a nuanced understanding of the various dimensions of poverty and the changes that have occurred over time.

Firstly, it's essential to define what we mean by poverty. The World Bank typically uses a daily income threshold to measure poverty, which has been adjusted over the years to account for inflation and changes in the cost of living. As of 2024, the international poverty line is set at $1.90 per day, which is a significant increase from the earlier threshold of $1.25 per day.

In the 1990s, there was a notable shift in the trajectory of global income inequality. Prior to this period, income inequality had been on the rise, with a widening gap between the rich and the poor. However, the 1990s marked a turning point, with income inequality beginning to decrease. This trend was largely driven by strong economic growth in Asia, particularly in China and India, which lifted millions of people out of extreme poverty.

The growth in Asia has had a profound impact on the global income distribution. As more people moved above the poverty line, the overall distribution of income began to shift. This shift has been visualized in various ways, with some models showing a global income distribution that is becoming less polarized.

It's important to recognize that while the number of people living in extreme poverty has decreased, poverty itself is not a static concept. It evolves with changes in the economy, technology, and social structures. Moreover, even as the proportion of people living in extreme poverty declines, there remains a significant number of individuals who are still struggling to meet their basic needs.

Additionally, the measurement of poverty can be influenced by factors such as inflation, changes in the cost of living, and the specific methodologies used by different organizations. For instance, the World Bank's measure of poverty is based on international prices, which may not accurately reflect the local conditions in every country.

Furthermore, the global economic landscape has been significantly impacted by events such as the 2008 financial crisis and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. These events have had varying effects on different regions and populations, with some experiencing increased poverty while others have seen improvements in their economic conditions.

In conclusion, while there has been progress in reducing extreme poverty, particularly in Asia, the question of whether poverty as a whole is increasing is more complex. It requires a comprehensive analysis that takes into account the various factors that contribute to poverty, as well as the specific conditions in different regions of the world.

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In the 1990s global income inequality stops increasing, and starts to decrease. We see the strong income growth in Asia transforming the global income distribution. More people are moving to the right of the poverty line, out of extreme poverty. Here is the world income distribution with the latest data.read more >>