Do you know the Global financial system fails developing countries most? Well for every $1 gained, $2 is lost.
2015 is a transformative year for Ghana and the rest of the world hence we have the opportunity to tackle poverty, inequality and climate change. With two historic summits within three months of each other in 2015? one in September on development to usher in the post 2015 AGENDA, one in December on climate change ? we have a unique opportunity to change the world for the better.
These summits are a chance for world leaders to make ground-breaking commitments for people and the planet. We are working hard under the action/2015 banner to ensure they live up to the challenge. But there is an elephant in the room. Finance. Words alone will not make these commitments a reality. It will take money and political will to deliver. THE FINANCING FOR DEVELOPMENT SUMMIT A third crucial summit taking place in July in Ethiopia is the place to be. The Financing for Development conference is our chance to turn the ambitious development goals and climate agreements currently being discussed at the UN into reality.
As leaders around the world prepare to attend the Financing for Development Conference, action/2015 campaigners are calling on them to do three vital things:
? Keep their promises: they must step up to aid, human rights and spending commitments whether in health, education or other priorities. And we expect them to be transparent ? only then, can we unlock people?s power and hold our leaders to account. It?s time to deliver.
? Tackle tax injustice: Ensure the richest, including multinational businesses, pay their fair share. Addis is a chance to put in place a fairer tax system and encourage governments to work with the private sector responsibly and for the benefit of the people.
? Fund Fairly: The development goals and the action needed on the climate will only be delivered if we put the poorest and most vulnerable first so that they can take control over their own development.
What We Can Achieve Together
In 2015 we can start along our journey towards a better world. We want everyone to get involved. Throughout 2015, the campaign will provide ways for everyone everywhere to get involved in influencing the outcomes of these global debates that could achieve:
? An end to poverty in all its forms;
? The meeting of fundamental rights, tackling inequality and discrimination;
? An accelerated transition to 100% renewable energy;
? A world where everyone can participate and hold their leaders accountable.
The Money Needed For Change Exists
The money exists to finance our future. It is hidden in offshore accounts. It is caught in big business tax loopholes. It is buried in unpaid aid commitments. It is wasted on debt interest and expensive dirty fossil fuel subsidies. It?s time to share our common wealth and finance our future. The money governments spend is our money.
On Saturday 11th July, backed by everyday experts and by prize winning economists, we will have our say and take action on how it is raised and spent. And we will keep taking action up until we are sure the climate and development goals we seek are fully funded.
In Ghana, the ACTION/2015 campaign is calling on our leaders to attend the conference and to make their commitment count too.
Together, as a global movement of citizens, we will raise our voices today but also for the generations of tomorrow.
Global day of action, 11th July 2015: A two-hour rally at the Tetteh Quashie round about and a walk through the streets and Accra Mall area to mark the day of Action. Time: 9.00 a.m
