Global Efforts Lagging: Millions Could Remain in Extreme Poverty by 2030—United Nations

The United Nations has warned that the world is not on track to eliminate extreme poverty by 2030. If current trends continue, nearly 9 percent of the global population could still be living in extreme poverty by the end of the decade.

Extreme poverty is now measured using an updated threshold of less than US $3 per person per day. Based on this standard, about 808 million people were living in extreme poverty in 2025, highlighting the persistent hardship despite decades of progress.

While there has been a notable reduction in extreme poverty over recent years, the UN says the pace of improvement has slowed significantly. Factors such as rising food prices, conflicts, climate shocks, and weak economic growth continue to hinder efforts to lift the poorest out of poverty.

The UN is urging governments and international partners to strengthen social safety nets and expand access to decent work and economic opportunities. Without these measures, millions of people risk being left behind as the 2030 deadline approaches.