The state of the world's livelihoods

Global progress in improving people’s livelihoods has been remarkable over the past two centuries, especially in reducing extreme poverty, improving health, increasing literacy and moving towards gender equality. This chapter outlines progress in the core dimensions of livelihoods – income, work and basic needs – and shows that although living conditions have improved on many fronts, progress is slowing down. It also asks how people feel about their own livelihoods – are they thriving, surviving or suffering, and how does this vary across regions? Thus, the chapter looks at livelihoods beyond simple monetary measures and includes the many other factors which influence people’s lives, from education, living conditions and health to people’s own sense of well-being. This approach reflects the need to seek resilient and inclusive livelihoods.