Institute of Development Studies

The Vulnerability and Poverty Reduction Team aims to shift thinking, policy and practice towards dynamic and multi-dimensional perspectives on vulnerability and poverty.

Vulnerability is a major obstacle to social and economic development. Poor people are especially vulnerable, they have few buffers or resources to cope with hazards or shocks. Yet they are significantly more likely to be affected by ill-health, unemployment, trade shocks, climate change, famine or conflict. Sustainable poverty reduction can only be achieved and managed effectively if vulnerability is better understood.

We aim to identify and develop responses to vulnerability that gives greater agency and voice to the vulnerable and the poor, and engages policymakers and practitioners.

We address this through:

• Inter-disciplinary research that provides new insights into the causes of vulnerability and poverty.
• Policy analysis that pursues more effective strategies for increasing security and opportunity for all.

Key research themes

• Climate Change and Development
• Social Protection
• Work and Vulnerability

Inter-Institutional Research Themes

• Conflict
• Food and Agriculture
• Microfinance

For further information, please contact:
Team Administrative Coordinator: Deborah Shenton
Team Leader: Allister McGregor