How does the Human Development Index (HDI) measure poverty?

The Human Development Index (HDI) does not directly measure poverty, but it includes indicators that indirectly reflect poverty levels within a country. The HDI is a composite index that measures the average achievements in three dimensions of human development: a long and healthy life, knowledge, and a decent standard of living.

To indirectly measure poverty, the HDI includes the following indicators:

1. Life expectancy at birth: This indicator reflects the overall health and well-being of a population. Higher life expectancy indicates better access to healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions, which are often associated with lower poverty rates.

2. Education: The HDI includes two education indicators - mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling. Mean years of schooling measures the average number of years of education received by adults aged 25 and older, while expected years of schooling measures the number of years a child is expected to attend school. Higher education levels are often associated with better job opportunities and higher incomes, which can help alleviate poverty.

3. Gross national income (GNI) per capita: GNI per capita is a measure of the average income earned by individuals in a country. While it does not directly measure poverty, higher GNI per capita generally indicates a higher standard of living and greater economic opportunities, which can contribute to poverty reduction.

By considering these indicators, the HDI indirectly captures the living conditions, access to education, and overall well-being of a population, which are closely related to poverty levels. However, it is important to note that the HDI is not a comprehensive measure of poverty and should be used in conjunction with other poverty indicators for a more accurate assessment.