Ecuador: defining and measuring multidimensional poverty, 2006-2010

Abstract

This paper provides new insights into the scope, measurement and analysis of multidimensional poverty in Ecuador and generates empirical evidence for the period 2006-2010. Multidimensional poverty is defined using a rights-based approach, on the basis of the provisions of the 2008 Constitution, but the analysis is limited to information gleaned from the Survey of Employment, Unemployment and Underemployment (ENEMDU) The findings show that multidimensional poverty decreased between 2006 and 2010; however, the level of inequality remained unchanged, with higher levels of poverty for rural inhabitants and women and among indigenous and Afro-Ecuadorian populations. Enhanced social protection and the promotion of better working conditions and public services are the priorities for abolishing poverty in Ecuador, but this requires political will and social commitment.