Multidimensional Poverty Index Assist Tool (MAT)

The online Multidimensional Poverty Index Assist Tool (MAT) enables policy makers to construct a tailored national multidimensional poverty index (MPI). MAT tool empowers states to use data to assess the incidence and depth of multidimensional deprivations within their populations using transparent methods and ensures accountability. It aims to support states in tracking their status and growth and in simulating developmental shocks.

Indicator building, selection and modification

Dedicated to statisticians who are familiar with the data and are technically able to work with raw data to build relevant poverty indicators.

Setting targets for poverty reduction & finding most efficient pathways using the optimization module

The optimization tool identifies which indicators need to be targeted to reduce the MPI and reach an MPI target, it also identifies by how much these indicators would need to be reduced.

Building scenarios of the national MPI

Policymakers can choose among different indicators and build different scenarios for a national MPI.

Simulating effects of shocks

The simulation module captures the effects of different types of shocks (e.g., economic, conflict or environment-related) on each MPI indicator.

Revealing inequalities among sub-groups of the population

The MAT features always show all possible disaggregations by subnational regions, rural and urban areas, by gender, age groups and more. This uncovers inequalities between rural-urban areas, gender of the household head, and other socio-economic characteristics.

Visit MAT Web page

MPI, an Index for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation

Tailored Insights for Informed Action

MPIs go beyond borders: it’s adaptable to national regional, and global contexts. Here are its key aspects:

Identifying Poverty Magnitude: finding out the percentage of the population in need.

Measuring Poverty Intensity: determine the severity of poverty challenges.

Understanding Manifestations: explore dimensions and indicators for a nuanced view of poverty.

Geographic Insights: pinpoint areas in need of targeted interventions.

Everyone Matters: recognize variations among sub-groups for tailored approaches.

National MPIs for a Poverty-Free Future

National MPIs serve as the basis for Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs), playing a crucial role in monitoring and advancing towards the Sustainable Development Goal 1- to eradicate poverty in all its forms. It is a versatile tool for planning, monitoring, and evaluation, empowering governments in various dimensions, such as:

Strategic Targeting: direct resources to areas in need.
Collaborative Coordination: foster unity among institutions and policymakers.
Enhanced Governance: build robust structures for effective resource management.
Optimized Resource Allocation: guide the effective use of national resources.
Informative Decision-Making: develop a solid national information system.

Scaling Impact with Regional and Global MPIs

While the national MPI focuses on policies within a country, regional MPIs, such as the revised Arab MPI, and the global MPI, widen the impact range. Examples include:

Global MPI: The global MPI was developed by OPHI and UNDP to assess multidimensional poverty at the household level. In their design, global measures focus on acute manifestations of poverty.
Revised Arab MPI: The revised Arab MPI combines material and non-material deprivations. It was developed after consultations between ESCWA and partner organizations, OPHI and the League of Arab States. It captures less severe forms of deprivations prevalent in Arab middle-income countries.
Check the Arab MPI report(s) Second Arab Multidimensional Poverty Report Arab Multidimensional Poverty Report