This paper focuses mainly on monetary dimensions of well-being, or consumption, to inform the policy dialogue in Romania on the extent and dynamics of poverty, as well as the main factors associated with poverty. The results are based on two comparable, nationally representative surveys: (i) the Romanian Household Budget Survey (ABF, upon its Romanian acronym) for the period 2001- 2002; and (ii) the Integrated Household Survey (AIG) for the period 1995-2000. Other dimensions of deprivations have been captured for 2002 using the Living Conditions Survey (ACOVI).
While it concentrates on monetary poverty, the paper captures other dimensions of material poverty such as caloric intake; crowding and living conditions, ownership of essential durables. In addition, it assesses poverty defined as capability to function in society, or adequate level of investments in health or education, or the lack of unemployment. Finally, the report reviews community poverty and perceptions of poverty