(Angus Reid – CPOD Global Scan) – Citizens around the world want decisive action to deal with eight global problems, according to the Voice of the People survey released by Gallup International. 73 per cent of respondents in 65 countries believe the world is not making enough progress in closing the gap between rich and poor.
(Angus Reid – CPOD Global Scan) – Citizens around the world want decisive action to deal with eight global problems, according to the Voice of the People survey released by Gallup International. 73 per cent of respondents in 65 countries believe the world is not making enough progress in closing the gap between rich and poor.
According to the Vital Signs 2003 report by the Worldwatch Institute, the disparity in per capita Gross Domestic Product (GDP) between the world’s 20 richest and 20 poorest nations more than doubled from 1960 to 1995. A 2003 World Bank report found growing inequality in Latin America, where one-tenth of the population earns 48 per cent of the area’s total income.
Eliminating extreme poverty and hunger, overcoming drug problems, integrating social issues and encouraging economic growth were next on the list of concerns. Respondents also want to see progress in environmental protection, the fight against AIDS and gender equality.
Polling Data
Is the world making progress in resolving these issues?
Yes | No | |
Closing the gap between rich and poor | 17% | 73% |
Eliminating extreme poverty / hunger | 19% | 73% |
Overcoming drug problems | 24% | 67% |
Integrating social issues | 32% | 51% |
Encouraging economic growth | 34% | 54% |
Protecting the environment | 36% | 57% |
Overcoming AIDS | 37% | 54% |
Promoting full equality for women | 41% | 49% |
Source: Voice of the People / Gallup International
Methodology: Interviews to 61,543 adults in 65 countries, conducted from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2004. No margin of error was provided.
