Let us begin our journey with perhaps the most fundamental of all Global Goals – ending poverty in all its forms, everywhere. This is not just about charity; it is about justice and unlocking the vast human potential that poverty keeps trapped. Despite our world’s incredible wealth and technological advances, nearly half of our global family still lives in poverty, with thousands dying daily from lack of basic necessities like food and clean water.
Right now, countless individuals are living on less than £1 a day – that is less than the cost of a cup of coffee in many countries. But poverty is not just about money – it is about access to education, healthcare, clean water, and the opportunity to live a dignified life. By 2030, we aim to change this story dramatically.
The Targets
The UN has set seven specific targets to guide our path toward poverty eradication:
Target 1.1 – Eradicate Extreme Poverty: Eliminate the reality of people living on less than £1 a day by 2030.
Target 1.2 – Reduce Poverty By At Least 50%: Reduce by 50% the proportion of people living in poverty according to national definitions.
Target 1.3 – Implement Social Protection Systems: Implement comprehensive social safety nets to protect the vulnerable.
Target 1.4 – Equal Rights To Ownership, Basic Services, Technology And Economic Resources: Guarantee equal access to economic resources, basic services, property ownership, and technology for all – particularly the poor and vulnerable.
Target 1.5 – Build Resilience To Environmental, Economic And Social Disasters: Strengthen communities against environmental, economic, and social disasters.
Target 1.A – Mobilise Resources To Implement Policies To End Poverty: Secure adequate funding and resources to implement poverty-ending programmes worldwide.
Target 1.B – Create Pro-Poor And Gender-Sensitive Policy Frameworks: Develop pro-poor and gender-sensitive policy frameworks at all levels.
How You Can Make a Difference
Ending poverty might seem overwhelming, but every action counts. Here is how you can contribute:
- Support a Goal 1 charity: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps eradicate poverty. Consider supporting our chosen charity: MITSkills Fundraiser or a cause close to your heart.
- Donate gently used items: Give your unwanted clothes, books, and furniture a new home through local charities.
- Support emergency relief: Donate essential items like clothes and food to those affected by disasters.
- Raise your voice against poverty: Join the fight to end extreme poverty, which still affects over 8% of the world’s population.
- Stay informed: Follow the Global Goals online or on social media (@TheGlobalGoals) to stay updated on global progress.
Remember, poverty is not just a distant problem – it exists in every country, affecting over 8% of the world’s population. But together, we can change this reality. By taking action today, we move one step closer to a world where everyone has the opportunity to prosper and live a fulfilling life.