This paper discusses the social-demographic dimensions of poverty and is based on findings from a four-year research program (2006–9) conducted by PPK–LIPI in the border areas of East Kalimantan and North Sulawesi. The general objective of this study is to develop methods for measuring poverty using social-demographic variables: fertility, mortality, migration, education, marriage and occupation. This research used quantitative and qualitative approaches. The intention in using these two approaches was to enable comprehensive data to be gathered on multidimensional aspects of social- demographic poverty.