It is of little surprise that SDG 1 aims to ‘end poverty in all its forms everywhere’. The fact that millions of persons are living in extreme poverty in a world characterized by an unprecedented level of economic development, technological means and financial resources is a moral outrage.

Poverty is not solely an economic issue, but rather a multidimensional phenomenon that encompasses a lack of both income and the basic capability to live in dignity. Persons living in poverty experience many interrelated deprivations that prevent them from realising their rights and perpetuate their poverty. Such deprivations include: dangerous work conditions, unsafe housing, lack of nutritious food, unequal access to justice, lack of political power and limited access to health care.

In a world of inequality and oppression we stand with those exploited in any way by unjust systems and structures. Our tradition encourages us to integrate our heads, hearts and hands to effect systemic change wherever we encounter poverty and injustice.