The current economic situation is often compared to the events experienced in the thirties and seventies of the last century. However, a careful analysis must consider not only the similarities but also differences, which could shed light on the present economic conditions. The analysis of recent developments in the Euro Area can draw attention to the existence of problems on both the supply and demand sides, as well as on the possible impact of higher rates of poverty risk over the worsening of the situation; which would make political concerns for poverty reduction not only a challenge from the standpoint of solidarity, but also of political efficacy against the problems of recession.