In a recent blog post, Oxfam International Executive Director Winnie Byanyima highlights a critical issue all of us working in international development must address: How can we reduce the extreme inequality between the haves and the have-nots around the world? Oxfam’s launch of the Even it Up campaign takes the organization’s research findings on inequality another step further by offering policy solutions to help tackle this growing problem.
Oxfam’s report offers new evidence of an ever-widening gap between the rich and poor that threatens to undermine poverty eradication, examines the causes of the inequality crisis, and proposes concrete solutions to overcome it.
The World Bank Group’s goals are to end extreme poverty by 2030 and promote shared prosperity by increasing the incomes and welfare of the bottom 40% of society.
“We are working to ensure that the growth of the global economy will improve the lives of all members of society, not only a fortunate few,” said World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim in a speech this month.
Oxfam’s initiative to raise awareness and spur action from governments, institutions, and corporations to tackle the inequality crisis is commendable. Their report has noted areas where improvements can be made, such as in labor rights, tax policy, health, education, public services, social protection, and gender equality.
You can also take action. Share Oxfam’s report through your social networks using the hashtag #EvenItUp and tell your leaders why you want to #TakeOn #inequality.
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