Economic growth and macroeconomic stability are essential for poverty reduction; however, they are not sufficient. Growth must be accompanied by measures ensuring that its benefits reach all segments of the population. As part of the effort in the fight against poverty, many countries, with the support of the Bank, are developing and implementing national poverty reduction strategies. Such strategies are formulated within a comprehensive, participatory framework and are based on widespread consultations with civil society. The Bank has also incorporated the Millenium Development Goals in its strategy to reduce poverty and inequality in the region.

To accelerate the pace of poverty reduction in all its dimensions - including material deprivation, low human development, powerlessness, and vulnerability - and promote social equity, specific actions are required in the following priority areas:

• Creating economic opportunities
• Promoting human development
• Enhancing social protection
• Improving the quality of life
• Preventing Dysfunctional Behavior
• Building inclusive societies
• Making state institutions more responsive and accountable

These priorities reflect recent interdisciplinary research in the area of poverty reduction presented in the World Development Report 2000-2001: Attacking Poverty.

The Unit produces and disseminates high-quality research on these topics (see research projects and technical working papers) through its strategy and best practice papers, and through its networks and outreach. The Unit is also placing special emphasis in developing social protection schemes for poor people. The Unit is also a resource for technical assistance on poverty issues to project team members and governments in the region. In this regard the Unit has placed special emphasis on tools to improve the targeting and impact evaluation of social programs, especially in Bank projects. In addition, the Unit places special emphasis on the improvement of the quality of information about the poor through the Household Survey Initiative (MECOVI) program and other initiatives.