 Poverty
Poverty is in the spotlight. Designated a "global challenge" to be addressed at
WSSD, the plight of the world’s poor cannot be ignored at Johannesburg. Inspite of
(and sometimes because of) the continued efforts of local and global finance
institutions, poverty persists across the world. Currently, one in six people lives on
less than US$1 per day, and this number is increasing. With such impoverishment,
sustainable development remains only a dream. Discussions to look for at WSSD:
-Consumption: Over-consumption by a rich minority
is further impoverishing the poor majority. Can consumption limits be implemented and
monitored?
-Debt relief: Southern nations will demand that
aid packages include more grants and less conditional loans.
-Global governance: Delegates will discuss the
future role of International Finance Institutions. Should a global anti-poverty
organisation be created?
-Local focus: how can we empower local communities
to combat poverty?
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