The global Multidimensional Poverty Index has increased for the first time since its creation in 2010, according to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The number of people affected by poverty has risen to 1.2 billion. This marks a significant setback in global efforts to reduce poverty. The UNDP announced these findings on Monday, highlighting a concerning trend. Over half of those affected are children, underscoring the vulnerability of future generations. This increase is attributed to overlapping crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, armed conflicts, and climate change impacts. The report calls for urgent action to address these challenges and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals.