Spatial Distribution of Poverty in Developing Countries: Geographic Patterns, Determinants, and Policy Implications

Abstract

This paper examines the spatial distribution of poverty across developing countries, analyzing how geographic factors influence poverty patterns and persistence. Through systematic analysis of cross-national data and spatial econometric methods, this study reveals significant geographic clustering of poverty, with rural areas, remote regions, and areas with limited infrastructure access experiencing disproportionately higher poverty rates. The research identifies key determinants including geographic isolation, agricultural dependency, institutional capacity, and infrastructure development as primary drivers of spatial poverty disparities. Findings demonstrate that poverty exhibits strong spatial autocorrelation, with neighboring regions sharing similar poverty characteristics due to spillover effects and common geographic constraints. The study's implications suggest that poverty reduction strategies must incorporate spatial targeting and place-based interventions to address geographic disadvantages effectively. This research contributes to understanding how geography shapes development outcomes and informs spatially-informed poverty reduction policies.