Second Arab Multidimensional Poverty Report Preparatory Discussion

This session included a presentation on the preliminary results of the MPI and the harmonization techniques. It also discussed some key issues such as the need for an additional chapter to measure the COVID-19 impact.

It was also agreed that OPHI plays a key role in the overall review process and in providing inputs, especially on MPI section.

UNICEF discussed the preliminary MODA results and how they relate to the MPI and countries where there appear to be significant discrepancies. Access to data for Egypt 2018 Household Income and Expenditure Survey was also discussed.

This session included a discussion on how to handle LDCs and conflict affected countries in light of data limitations and in the context of the new structure of the report.

It was decided that UNDP would lead the preparation of this chapter with inputs from all agencies and particularly from UNFPA on covering the impact of COVID-19 in humanitarian settings.

The session focused on the policy side. It was decided that the UNDP will lead the final chapter where the focus will be on presenting adequate policy measures based on our analysis in the short term and medium term. The main orientation of the policy section is how the region can get on track to achieve the ambitious goal of halving the regional MPI by 2030.  Other key action points included:

1. An additional chapter to be prepared on the impact of COVID-19 which will rely on dashboard data for the MPI indicators to be prepared by LAS and ESCWA.
2. Need for further discussion on simulation methodology and whether or not to recruit a consultant to assess COVID-19 impact.
3. Involve assigned report focal points in the technical discussions before the finalization of the first draft.
4. Report Draft to be finalized by May to be submitted for review by high level representatives and report to be finalized and endorsed by LAS Ministerial Council by December 2022.