“Poverty”, describes negative attitudes and behaviours towards people living in poverty. According to a new report published by the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, Olivier de Schutter, this negative stereotyping against those on low incomes is as pervasive, toxic, and harmful as racism, sexism and other forms of discrimination. 

On the 77th session of the UN General Assembly in New York on October 28, 2022, the UN expert on poverty explained how people are stereotyped and discriminated against purely because they are poor. Increasing prices for energy and food are throwing millions more into poverty and they must be protected not only from poverty itself but also from the exclusion caused by povertyism, Schutter said. He called on governments to urgently review their anti-discrimination laws and take further action to ensure povertyism is wiped out. 

Moreover, the report shows that povertyism has become strongly entrenched in public and private institutions, often because decision-making positions tend to be held by those from higher-income backgrounds. According to de Schutter, this issue must be treated equally seriously as the injustices of racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. Banning discrimination on grounds of socioeconomic disadvantage is an essential tool in the fight against poverty. 

Please read the report of the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights here. 

Eurodiaconia members’ extensive experience with people experiencing poverty confirms the critical situation they face. You can learn more about our members’ and Eurodiaconia’s work tackling poverty and advocating for social justice here.