Multidimensional Poverty in Belize Decreases

According to the latest data from the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB), Belize recorded a decrease of 4.4% in multidimensional poverty. Multidimensional poverty measures deprivation not just in income but across several key areas such as health, education, employment, and living standards. The index considers both the proportion of people affected (incidence) and the severity of their deprivation (intensity). 

The SIB reports that the improvements in sanitation, internet access, and dependency ratios have helped reduce poverty levels. Yet, the overall intensity of poverty remained largely unchanged from 38.4% to 38.0%.

Rural poverty dropped significantly from 39.9% in 2023 to 30.9% in 2024. In contrast, urban areas saw a slight increase from 8.3% to 9.7% in poverty.

Toledo remains the hardest hit with 67.9% of its  population living in multidimensional poverty. Meanwhile, the Belize District reported the lowest rate at 9.5%.

Households with no formal education face a poverty rate of 36%.

Family size and household composition are also significant factors. Households with more children or elderly members face higher poverty rates. Those who are unemployed face a 50.2% poverty rate, compared to 18.6% for those not in the labour force.