Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/91026 
Year of Publication: 
2011
Series/Report no.: 
Texto para Discussão No. 1619
Publisher: 
Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica Aplicada (IPEA), Brasília
Abstract (Translated): 
In this text we address measurement, monitoring and cost issues relating to the eradication of extreme poverty in Brazil. We argue that, for the purpose of ending extreme poverty, income poverty is the relevant concept, and that an administrative extreme poverty line, decided upon politically, is the best criterion. For computational purposes, we use a R$ 67 extreme poverty line. The extreme poverty line should be updated using food inflation (INPC-alimentos) and progress should be assessed using the upcoming quarterly continuous household survey. We finally argue that families report incomes strategically, that even if correctly reported, all incomes are measured with error, and that those of poor people are also highly volatile. Given these limitations, the only way to ensure the end of extreme poverty is to give to extremely poor families a benefit close to the poverty line itself. We finally propose an incremental strategy that will cost less that 0,5% of GDP, using a R$ 67 line.
JEL: 
I38
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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