10 Statistics that Show the World Is Doing Much Better Than Many Think
For years now it seems like we are in current crisis. Media in the US and Europe are usually filled with bad news, fear, catastrophe, and thoughts of the apocalypse. Bad things do indeed happen, and it is legitimate to report on them, but it can simply get too much and also simply obscure reality. It is important to remember that significant progress is being made across the globe. People are working hard every single day to make the world a better place, literally. These 10 statistics highlight remarkable advancements in various aspects of human well-being, shedding light on the positive changes that are shaping our world.
1. Extreme Poverty Decline
The global extreme poverty rate has plummeted from 36% in 1990 to approximately 9% in 2020. This decline signifies substantial progress in lifting people out of dire circumstances. The reduction in extreme poverty means that millions have gained access to better living conditions, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities. It needs to be said that the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in poverty, but the overall trajectory shows a significant feat in human development to build on in the years to come.
2. Child Mortality Reduction
Child mortality rates have halved since 1990. The reduction in child mortality underscores advancements in healthcare, immunization, and sanitation. Fewer children dying before their fifth birthday signifies that more infants and children are surviving and thriving.
3. Increased Literacy Rates
Global adult literacy rates have risen from 76% in 1990 to 86% in 2020. Improved literacy rates correlate with enhanced education and employment opportunities. Literate individuals are better equipped to make informed decisions, contribute to their communities, and pursue a higher quality of life.
4. Expanded Access to Clean Water
Around 73% of the global population has access to clean drinking water sources. Access to clean water is a basic human right that impacts health, hygiene, and disease prevention. Increased clean water access directly improves public health and well-being. There is still a long way to go until virtually all of the global population has access, but the improvement over the years is motivating. With new technologies such as desalination and water retention, this goal can surely be accomplished.
5. Maternal Mortality Reduction
Maternal deaths per 100,000 live births have decreased by almost 38% from 2000 to 2017. Improved maternal healthcare ensures safer pregnancies and births, reducing the risk of mothers losing their lives due to complications. This progress contributes to the well-being of families and communities.
6. Technological Connectivity
Over 53% of the world’s population now has access to the internet. Internet access facilitates communication, education, and access to information. It empowers individuals with opportunities to learn, connect with others, and participate in the global digital economy.
7. Reduced Child Labor Rates
Child labor rates have dropped by nearly 40% between 2000 and 2020. A decrease in child labor signifies that more children are enjoying their childhoods and receiving education, improving their long-term prospects and breaking cycles of poverty.
8. Decrease in Hunger and Malnutrition
The percentage of undernourished people has decreased from 14.7% in 2000 to 8.9% in 2020. A reduction in hunger and malnutrition directly improves physical and cognitive development, contributing to a healthier, more productive population.
9. Improved Gender Equality
Indicators of gender equality, such as women’s workforce participation and political representation, have seen steady improvements. Advancements in gender equality create more inclusive societies where all individuals have equal access to opportunities, decision-making, and resources.
10. Clean Energy Growth
Clean energy capacity has more than doubled from 1,310 GW in 2007 to over 2,800 GW in 2021. The growth of renewable energy capacity signifies progress towards cleaner energy sources, reducing carbon emissions, and mitigating climate change for a more sustainable future.
Final Thoughts
Acknowledging these statistics reveals a brighter side of the world’s trajectory, despite all the challenges that may lie ahead, there are many reasons to look forward to and shape the future. Progress in poverty reduction, healthcare, education, gender equality, and sustainable energy underscores humanity’s capacity to create positive change and build a more prosperous and equitable global community. It is important to understand and unfortunately needs to be mentioned that nothing is perfect, and many of these statistics will hopefully and likely improve further. They do, however, show that mankind is today much better off than 100 years ago, 50 years ago, or even 20 years ago. We will be regularly updating this article with new data and statistics to give you the latest insights into what is getting better in the world.
Sources and further reading:
World Bank, “Poverty”
Unicef, “Under-Five Survival”
World Bank, “Literacy Rate”
United Nations, “Goal 6: Ensure access to water and sanitation for all”
UNPF, “Trends in Maternal Mortality”
ITU, “Measuring digital development: Facts and Figures 2022”
ILO, “Child Labor”
Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN, “The State of Food Security
and Nutrition in the World 2021”
World Economic Forum, “Global Gender Report 2021”
IRENA, “Key Data”
Written with Support from ChatGPT by OpenAI