Inequality; Poverty and Vulnerability: Exploring the Interaction Mechanism

Chukwunonso Gerald Iheoma

Abstract: This study attempts to provide empirical evidence on the nature of the interaction between inequality; poverty and vulnerability so as to stimulate an informed debate on the strategies for overcoming the development challenges they pose. Findings show that contrary to theoretical speculations and policy anticipations; there exists no statistically significant relationship between inequality; poverty and vulnerability. These variables are found to be mutually exclusive; inter-independent; distinct and unreinforced by one another in their operations. Instead; other variables such as health and education expenditures; per capita income; and household income are found to be significantly correlated with inequality; poverty and vulnerability. This implies that; although inequality; poverty and vulnerability do not impact and reinforce each other; there are other factors that have significant impact on them.

Keywords: inequality, poverty, vulnerability, development