Inequalities – Differences between poverty and wealth, as well as peoples' wellbeing and access to things like jobs, housing and education

Inequalities may occur in housing provision, access to services, access to open land, and safety and security. 

To remember the meaning of the term Inequalities, use the following mnemonic:

In no way are these equal in quality (inequality). The difference in the two places shows massive contrasts in wealth, housing and wellbeing.

Standards of living can vary from family to family, from one part of a country to the other, and from one country to another. The differences can be economic – differing levels of wealth and income – and political – different rights and freedoms – as well as in many other areas, such as access to healthcare or education.

While it might be impossible to have a completely equal global society, there is concern that the degree of inequality is growing both within and between countries.

There is evidence that everyone is likely to benefit from societies being more equal, not just the world’s poorest people. For example, a more unequal society is less healthy for everyone within it, regardless of their status.