On July 2, 2005, stars like Barenaked Ladies and Jann Arden rocked 35,000 fans in Barrie, Ontario, while simultaneous Live 8 shows were staged in 10 major cities around the world. More than 1.7 million people worldwide gathered to support the Make Poverty History campaign. But, would governments listen?
What Was Accomplished
Five days after Live 8, the G8 leaders met in Scotland. It seemed that they had paid some attention. As a result of that meeting, they promised to:
- cancel debt for 18 of the poorest countries;
- double aid to Africa by 2010;
- ensure primary education for every child by 2015;
- provide AIDS drugs to all who need them, and care for all AIDS orphans.
More than 215,000 Canadians joined the Make Poverty History campaign in 2005. World Vision alone delivered 37,000 postcards to the prime minister and distributed 68,000 white wristbands. This, on top of the media interest generated by Live 8, shows that Canadians care about helping the poor overseas.
And yet, so many promises remain unfulfilled. Canada is the only G8 country that consistently runs budget surpluses, yet spends just 0.32 per cent of its income on foreign aid.
What's Left to Do
Last year, the Canadian government committed to substantial increases in foreign aid. But still, no timetable has been set to reach its decades-old goal of 0.7 per cent of national income for aid.
Live 8 was a big hit, and thousands of Canadians are becoming much more aware of poverty issues. And yet, even now, a child dies from extreme poverty every three seconds.
Make Poverty History calls for:
- more and better aid
- trade justice
- cancellation of debt
- an end to child poverty in Canada.
What You Can Do
Make Poverty History is a campaign of mobilization, and your government needs to hear from you. Children in poverty need help, and our spending can make or break the effort. Wear a white wristband and stay informed. Send an email to the prime minister and speak up about the campaign. Click here to learn more.
