The gap between rich and poor Arab countries has reached unprecedented proportions. UN report on inequality in the Arab world: the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer Economic development
The Arab world has seen a significant increase in prosperity over the past two decades, but socioeconomic inequality has also increased sharply. A new report from the UN Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia shows alarming trends: the region’s rich countries continue to grow their wealth, while the poorest countries are rapidly losing ground.
In rich countries such as the Gulf states, average personal wealth has nearly tripled, from $33,600 in 2000 to $98,800 in 2022. But in poor countries such as Yemen and Sudan, after a brief rise to $5,100 in 2010, it has fallen to $3,200 in 2022.
Wealth in the hands of a few
The gap between rich and poor countries has reached unprecedented levels. If in 2000, residents of rich countries were 19 times richer than residents of poor countries, then by 2022 the gap had grown to 31 times.
Within countries, inequality is also worsening. For example, in poor countries, the share of wealth concentrated in the hands of the top 10 percent of citizens increased from 55 percent in 2000 to 64 percent in 2022. The share of the poorest half of the population decreased from 10.7 percent to 7.6 percent. These figures clearly demonstrate the deepening concentration of resources in the hands of a narrow elite.
The Consequences of Inequality for the Region
This situation threatens not only social stability, but also the economic development of the region as a whole. The uneven distribution of resources limits the access of the poor to education, health care and opportunities to improve their lives. The report emphasizes that this problem is structural in nature and requires a systemic approach.
To correct the existing imbalance, the UN proposes introducing a progressive tax on large assets and inheritance, which will redistribute resources in favor of the poor. Experts also propose simplifying access to loans and investments for low- and middle-income households, developing government support programs and stimulating business in economically backward regions. An important step is the harmonization of tax systems between countries, which will help avoid capital flight and strengthen financial stability.
Equality as the Foundation of the Future
UN experts are confident that without urgent and decisive action, the gap between rich and poor will only widen, undermining economic recovery and threatening social stability. A fair distribution of wealth can become the basis for sustainable development of the entire region.