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Vulnerability to Multidimensional Poverty in Algeria and Tunisia: A Counting Approach with Bayesian Network Classifiers

Author

Listed:
  • Valérie BÉRENGER

    (University of Toulon, LEAD)

Abstract

This paper assesses vulnerability to multidimensional poverty in Algeria (2013 and 2019) and Tunisia (2012 and 2018). Using Gallardo’s (2022) vulnerability-by-mean-risk framework with Alkire and Foster’s (2019) M-gamma measures, it models the joint probability of poverty and deprivations through multidimensional Bayesian network classifiers. The study fills the evidence gap in the MENA region and extends Gallardo’s approach by examining the dimensional vulnerability among the vulnerable individuals and the overlap with poverty. Results show that Tunisia exhibits higher vulnerability than Algeria despite similar multidimensional poverty. Vulnerability declined overall, and moderate vulnerability dominates in both countries but trends diverged, Algeria shifted towards moderate vulnerability (2013-2019), while Tunisia moved towards severe vulnerability (2012-2018). Chronic poverty is more prevalent in Tunisia than in Algeria, and health and education dimensions are key in distinguishing severe from moderate vulnerability in both countries. These findings highlight contrasting trajectories of vulnerability components in both countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Valérie BÉRENGER, 2025. "Vulnerability to Multidimensional Poverty in Algeria and Tunisia: A Counting Approach with Bayesian Network Classifiers," Region et Developpement, Region et Developpement, LEAD, Universite du Sud - Toulon Var, vol. 62, pages 123-150.
    • Handle: RePEc:tou:journl:v:62:y:2025:p:123-150
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being
    • I32 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Measurement and Analysis of Poverty
    • D63 - Microeconomics - - Welfare Economics - - - Equity, Justice, Inequality, and Other Normative Criteria and Measurement
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty

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