"Midis presents multidimensional poverty index to improve social policies."

The recent presentation of the Multidimensional Poverty Index by the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion (Midis) has sparked widespread debate in public opinion. In a context where poverty figures are crucial for public policies and social welfare, Deputy Minister of Policy and Social Evaluation, Fanny Montellanos, has defended the need for this new index, arguing that it is not an attempt to hide or disguise the reality of poverty in the country. During an interview on Canal N, Montellanos emphasized that poverty should not only be viewed from a monetary perspective but also from other angles that affect people's quality of life. The new index aims to incorporate dimensions such as access to basic services, education, health, and food security, which would provide a more comprehensive view of citizens' situations in the country. With this, Midis hopes to provide a more effective tool for designing social policies that truly respond to the population's needs. The deputy minister underscored that this approach does not eliminate the measurement of monetary poverty, which continues to be conducted through the National Household Survey (ENAHO) by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI). In this regard, Montellanos assured that the new index is a complement that will enrich existing data rather than replace it. This is crucial for ensuring that statistics more accurately reflect the social and economic reality of the country. Additionally, Montellanos clarified that the methodology proposed by Midis is not an imposition on INEI, but rather a collaboration to improve poverty measurement. This joint effort, according to the deputy minister, aims for all involved parties to work in a coordinated manner to provide a single figure that encompasses the various dimensions of poverty, thereby facilitating its understanding and treatment. Despite the intention to complement existing information, criticisms have emerged. Some analysts and opponents believe that this new approach could lead to confusion. They argue that by adding non-economic variables to the calculation of poverty, the severity of the economic situation for the most vulnerable could be diluted, presenting a more optimistic image of reality. However, Montellanos emphasized that this index seeks precisely to highlight the gaps that still persist in society. The results of the new multidimensional poverty index will be fundamental for developing more comprehensive policies. With this approach, it is expected that government interventions will be more specific and effective, addressing not only economic needs but also the social aspects affecting communities. This, in turn, could contribute to a real and sustained reduction of poverty in the country. The upcoming announcement of the index results will generate expectations across various sectors, from government to academic and social spheres. The ability of this new indicator to faithfully reflect the social reality of the country will be put to the test, and its acceptance will depend on transparency and rigor in its application. The participation of INEI and the Advisory Commission on Poverty will be crucial in this process. The implementation of the multidimensional index could also open the door to greater dialogue between the government and citizens. As it is recognized that poverty is a complex phenomenon, a deeper discussion about the necessary policies to address its multiple facets is likely to be encouraged. This dialogue is essential for building consensus and finding effective solutions that allow progress toward a more equitable society. With all this on the horizon, Midis faces the challenge of not only implementing this new index but also effectively communicating its implications and benefits to the population. How these data are interpreted and utilized will be decisive for the initiative to fulfill its purpose of improving the living conditions of vulnerable Peruvian citizens. In this sense, transparency, collaboration, and commitment are key to the success of the new approach to measuring poverty in the country.