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COVID-19 Slows Progress, But Inequality Declines Globally

2/4/2026

50 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global progress, slowing improvements in living standards, education, and economic activity, especially in low-income countries.
New research using the updated Inequality of Human Progress Index (HPI) shows global inequality remains lower than in the 1990s, though some measures rose during the pandemic.
Internet access improved.
The Inequality of Human Progress Index (HPI) measures eight dimensions of well-being.

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Story summary

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global progress, slowing improvements in living standards, education, and economic activity, especially in low-income countries.
New research using the updated Inequality of Human Progress Index (HPI) shows global inequality remains lower than in the 1990s, though some measures rose during the pandemic.
Internet access improved.
The Inequality of Human Progress Index (HPI) measures eight dimensions of well-being.