Gen Z More Optimistic About Ending Global Poverty Than Older Generations: Compassion UK Survey
Despite slowed progress globally, charity encourages all generations to have hope on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty (17 October)
A recent UK survey by international child development charity Compassion UK shows a significant generational divide in the belief that extreme poverty can be eradicated, with Gen Z (aged between 12 and 27) showing much higher levels of optimism than their older counterparts.
Highlights of the survey include:
- 61% of those aged 18-34 believe it’s possible to end extreme poverty, compared to just 34% of those over 55
- Younger respondents also view eradicating poverty as one of the most critical global issues, with 47% of 18-24 year-olds rating it as the top priority, compared to 35% of those aged 55+
- Just under half of UK adults believe that eradicating poverty is possible (48%). This number is higher for Christians (61%).
On the UN’s International Day for the Eradication of Poverty – 17 October 2024 – Compassion UK is using the date to highlight the challenges of the global poverty landscape, with nearly 10% of the world’s population living on less than $2.15 a day1, and a global stall in progress towards poverty eradication of that shocking level of poverty2.
Due to the visible impact of their work on the ground, Compassion UK remains hopeful, and urges people of all ages to recognise that hope can be a powerful driver for change – which, when turned into action, can pave the way for tangible improvements in the fight against global poverty.
Luke Gratton, Director of Church Partnerships at Compassion UK said,
These findings are a testament to the hopeful spirit and global awareness of younger generations. While it’s inspiring to see Gen Z leading the way in their optimism and prioritisation of eradicating poverty, it’s important to recognise that older generations have laid a foundation of dedication and commitment.
At Compassion UK, we’re seeing all generations working together to tackle this now. We believe, together, we can put our hope into action toward ending extreme poverty.
Tackling poverty at source has a ripple effect across whole communities, addressing a host of interconnected issues, such as hunger, education, health, and social equality. This work is being seen by Compassion across 29 countries around the world, where entire families are witnessing and participating in this change. From Gen Z to Gen X and baby boomers, people of all ages are joining forces to combat poverty, united in their dedication to building a better future for all.
Compassion UK is at the forefront of this movement, actively working with local church partners to address extreme poverty across generations. In their international programs, all ages collaborate to advocate for change, develop new skills, and lift communities out of poverty. For instance, James Tebyasa, a Compassion programme graduate in Uganda has seen firsthand how important it is for all generations to work side-by-side to achieve these shared goals.
“In my community, I have witnessed the transformative impact of clean water on communities and children’s lives. It improves health, education, and safety, helping children attend school regularly and protecting them from harm. Clean water empowers families through irrigation farming and boosts the local economy, creating a solid foundation for future growth, and ultimately combats poverty. If we are all contributing to building a more resilient and thriving community through poverty eradication efforts, it affects the entire community from the very youngest to the very oldest.”
Luke Gratton said,
To truly eradicate poverty, it is essential for everyone – young and old – to continue engaging with these realities. Optimism must be paired with strategic, long-term action that understands the depth and complexity of the issue. Together, we can address not only extreme poverty but its underlying causes, including lack of education, healthcare, and access to economic opportunities. Every generation has a role to play in this fight.
To find out more about the work of Compassion’s local partners and how you can get involved, please visit https://www.compassionuk.org/about-us/where-we-work/
