Poverty in Guatemala

Poverty in Guatemala is part of the World Bank Country Study series. These reports are published with the approval of the subject government to communicate the results of the Bank’s work on the economic and related conditions of member countries to governments and to the development community. In 2000, over half of all Guatemalans-about 6.4 million people-lived in poverty, with about 16% living in extreme poverty. Guatemala rates among the worst in Latin America and the Caribbean for life expectancy, infant mortality and maternal mortality and while the education sector has made progress there are still important biases against the poor. Similarly, progress has also been made in the provision of basic utilities however, important gaps and disparities remain. Poverty in Guatemala provides a comprehensive assessment of the social and economic factors that impact the poor in Guatemala. It provides a strategy to reduce poverty in Guatemala which focuses on building economic opportunities and assets, reducing vulnerability, improving institutions and empowering communities.