Child Poverty in Russia

For several consecutive years strong economic growth has been a reality across the region, as it is here in Russia. Together with slowly declining inequality, this has meant an overall reduction in levels of material poverty. Indeed, the recent World Bank report indicates that economic growth has lifted 40 million people out of poverty since 1998.

Even with this robust recovery, some 60 millions still find themselves living in poverty. And the characteristics of this poverty has changed. Economic growth has benefited those close to the poverty line, but the depth of poverty has increased for those left behind. It is concentrating in rural areas and amongst the most vulnerable and marginalized.

There are also important shifts taking place in the age-profile of poverty.  In a number of countries, children have become the majority of the poor. Indeed, the World Bank data points out that here in Russia while adults in age group 18-45 yrs have benefited from economic growth between 1999-2002, the highest incidence of poverty- and the greatest rate of deterioration- has been in the 0-14 yrs age group.  Among children!

These are all important reasons why holding this Round Table on child poverty in Russia is both timely and relevant. The current economic recovery gives a unique opportunity to address child poverty in a more systematic way within the framework of the government’s ongoing social reform effort.