'Seize the chance to end global poverty urges Christian' Aid
The current global financial crisis offers an unprecedented opportunity for the eradication of global poverty, Christian Aid said at the recent launch of its ‘Poverty Over' campaign. Old truths, old ways of thinking and old economic models have been exposed as fundamentally unsuited to promoting human development.
Poverty can not be eradicated through the ‘business as usual approach' - a bit more money here, a little more decision making power there. Christian Aid calls for a far more radical and comprehensive approach to eradicating poverty. Poverty is essentially the result of unjust political decisions, and as such the solutions need to be political too.
Christian Aid's ‘Poverty Over' Report states that poverty can actually be ended if its structural causes are addressed.
The report explores some of the measures that must be taken to end poverty. These include a tough new international climate change agreement, greater transparency in finance systems and an end to tax dodging by multinational companies and corporations.
‘The world is in crisis,' said Christian Aid Chief Executive Margaret Boden. ‘It isn't just financial. Climate change, the food security crisis and worsening levels of inequality are also undermining quality of life for many millions of people.
‘Historically, crises have prompted massive social change. Change can bring with it the opportunity to shape what is to come, giving birth to hope and a sense of purpose. Now is the time for new thinking and new ideas.
‘It is not that we don't know how to treat or cure many diseases, enable the hungry to be fed, educate children or create jobs. It is simply that all too often we look the other way from what needs to be done. There is enough in the world today for everyone's need, if greed and indifference don't stand in the way.'
Christian Aid has identified a number of key areas where action is needed if poverty is to be ended. These include:
taking urgent action to combat climate change
providing security from violence
addressing transparency in taxation and financial systems
enabling people to realise their entitlements to health, education, water and reproductive services
making international and national markets and economies more just
ending extremes of inequality and discrimination
promoting accountable governance
A comprehensive list of what is required, the report adds, will only emerge from wide engagement and consultation with civil society organisations in developed and developing countries, the private sector, leading development thinkers, academics, activists, campaigners, supporters and policymakers.
To read the full report click here