Zmeny trajektórie vývoja chudoby na Slovensku a v EÚ v čase globálnej polykrízy

Changes in the trajectory of poverty development in Slovakia and the EU during the global polycrisis

Abstract

For several years, humanity has been experiencing a period of polycrisis, characterised by numerous serious challenges. One significant consequence of this ongoing polycrisis in many countries is the growth and intensification of poverty. This article focuses on monitoring the development and changes in poverty across EU countries, with particular emphasis on Slovakia. The findings indicate that Slovakia achieved the second-worst position in terms of the average annual income poverty growth index during the monitored period. Moreover, according to the monitored income development indicator, Slovakia recorded the worst value within the entire EU. These developments have diminished the impact of income on alleviating poverty, and together with significant inflation growth (observed in the latter half of the monitored period), have led to its dominance over poverty. The shift in the dominant impact from income to inflation radically altered the trajectory of poverty development from long-term improvement to deterioration, resulting in a substantial increase in poverty in Slovakia. The results of the study also highlighted risks likely to contribute to further deepening of poverty. It is evident that the already challenging financial situation of households, combined with the adverse financial impacts of the first and the currently prepared second consolidation package in 2025, will lead to increased inflation and its confirmed negative impact on poverty. The aim of this paper was to provide insights into the changes in poverty development trajectory in Slovakia and the causes behind these adverse changes, including the rise in poverty.