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1000 Days to Tackle Poverty

The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has joined religious leaders from the world's richest countries in reminding their governments that they have less than 1000 days to meet their commitments to halve extreme poverty.

The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were agreed by 182 nations in 2000 and promised to halve hunger, get all children into school, provide clean water and sanitation for millions, tackle diseases like malaria and greatly improve maternal health by 2015.

The Rt Rev Albert Bogle was one of over 60 signatories from across the G8 (the eight wealthiest countries) to an open letter, published in the Financial Times, calling for ‘a focus on tax, trade and transparency’ during the UK’s presidency of the G8 this year: “If the political will and moral leadership is forthcoming, this year’s G8 could help to create an environment that encourages the conditions for inclusive, equitable and sustainable economic growth – conditions that are desperately needed if we are to realise the MDGs and even greater things beyond.”

The letter points out the overall poverty goal has been met ahead of time, largely due to China’s economic growth. But it goes on to say: “Hunger remains a global challenge with some 868 million people going hungry every day. Maternal mortality might be falling by 1% per annum, but this rate is below the 5% annual improvement needed.”

It also calls on governments to fulfil their pledges on aid spending.

Joel Edwards, International Director of Micah Challenge, which campaigns for the MDGs, said: “Meeting the MDGs is possible. Even in hard times we should not waiver from our promise to the poorest people in the world. If we tackle waste and corruption, we could free up billions.”

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