Does the data we traditionally use on poverty, inequality and labor markets capture the full picture? The new World Bank report, Voices of Europe and Central Asia: New Insights on Shared Prosperity and Jobs, analyzes qualitative data from 9 countries in Europe and Central Asia and shows that people’s perceptions are not always well aligned with quantitative indicators. Increased polarization and the role of factors beyond people’s control, such as connections and social norms, are at the heart of this disconnect.
The panel will discuss the implications of these findings for policy makers and the development community as we seek to better understand barriers to accessing jobs, reducing poverty and sharing prosperity across the world.
Watch the meeting live using WebEx (10am-12pm EST)
Use meeting number (access code): 730 754 284
Blog: People’s living standards – do numbers tell the whole story?