ESCWA prepared this study in the context of its activities aimed at improving statistical work in member countries. The purpose of the study consists of enhancing capacities of member countries in designing and implementing the integrated household survey which contributes to promoting capacities to develop, follow up and evaluate plans and programmes, and to building social and economic indicators which allow to monitor progress achieved in realizing the Millennium Development Goals, in particular the goal of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger. The study addresses the principal elements, goals and steps of the integrated household survey, its positive and negative aspects and its role in studying poverty. It concludes with suggestions for member countries willing to adopt the integrated household survey on improving the elements of their statistical system and statistical activity coordination mechanisms and implementing the different survey steps.