Rosa Mª Regueiro Ferreira
PhD Professor in Applied Economics at the University of Santiago de Compostela, researcher in Economics of Energy and Natural Resources
Does the press release accurately reflect the study?
“Yes, the press release succinctly and clearly sets out the main features and contributions of the research”.
Are the conclusions supported by sound data?
“The conclusions are supported by the data consulted, noting that the variables used are primarily economic in nature, whilst also incorporating digital wealth. The text acknowledges the merits of the AROP rate, which serves as a benchmark for poverty analysis in the European Union and its member states. The differentiation by sub-periods within the time frame is very important, with particular attention paid to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
What are the main limitations of the study?
“Although it is undoubtedly implicitly included, the study does not highlight any variable showing the impact of energy poverty, within a timeframe in which fluctuations in household energy prices have been particularly marked. Nor does it provide an explanation in this regard, nor is it noted in the review of the scientific literature.”
To what extent do these findings provide relevant data on the reality of poverty in Spain?
“In order to make a comprehensive assessment of the impact of poverty in Spain, these results need to be supplemented with those from other research and institutions, such as the Foessa report, reports from the Red Cross and Caritas, and scientific studies. It is undoubtedly a contribution that should be taken into account to understand the multidimensional nature of poverty, including in Spain, but it must be complemented by other research.”
What are the implications of the findings?
“The findings should be regarded as a source of information for designing active policies to prevent poverty, addressing both structural and cyclical factors.”