BBC: Latin America poverty level lowest in 20 years, says UN

[pampango]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-15957422

Poverty in Latin America is at its lowest level for 20 years, the UN's regional economic body, Eclac, says. From 1990 to 2010, the rate fell from 48.4% to 31.4%, which means 177 million people currently live in poverty.

Eclac says the main reason for the reduction in poverty and inequality is the rise in household incomes.

"Poverty and inequality continue to decline in the region, which is good news, particularly in the midst of an international economic crisis," said Alicia Barcena, Eclac's executive secretary.

Among the countries that saw the biggest drops in poverty are Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, Uruguay and Colombia. Poverty increased only in Honduras and Mexico.

Signs of progress in Latin America, but more is needed.

[Odin2005]

1. We have the Latin American Left to thank for that.