The issue is complicated by the fact that definitions of poverty differ from country to country. In addition, absolute poverty figures describe households whose incomes fall below a set level, usually determined by how much money would hypothetically be required to buy a basket of basic goods and services. Poverty lines, however, are often set unrealistically low. In some countries, the poverty line is set at the same level for both urban and rural areas, not taking into account the higher costs of living in cities. Nor can poverty be adequately described as just a lack of economic resources or access to basic needs.
Women face a number of social barriers that limit their access to income-earning opportunities.
In countries where women do not have the right to own property or gain access to credit, sudden loss of a partner or job can leave the household without any means to stay afloat. Children are also especially vulnerable to poverty. Child poverty is strongly self-perpetuating. Many poor households rely on child labor for survival, yet this work is often at the expense of schooling and the health of the child, making it difficult for the next generation to escape from poverty. When women must spend a significant proportion of their time collecting water or fuel, they have less time available for income-earning activities.