More armed violence, less development

Are lower-income populations more affected by armed violence than wealthier ones? The poor who witness or survive shootings and physical violence are only too aware of the resulting pain, suffering, and trauma. Rich or poor, armed violence shortens planning horizons, erodes social capital, and undermines the skills and assets necessary for a productive life.
As a result, it disrupts and distorts the political, economic, and social institutions required to
ensure predictable and stable growth and development. In almost all cases, armed violence
generates negative consequences for people’s quality of life and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).