Astrid Spota reports
In the last few weeks, the slogan "make poverty history" has been a widespread topic of discussion thanks to the highly publicized Live 8 concert. For months, the One campaign has adamantly emphasized the importance of solidarity in the quest to fight global AIDS and poverty. But is this quest to eradicate poverty merely a passing trend or the beginning of a movement that will change the fate of third world countries? What influence, if any, did the live 8 concert have on the world leaders during the G8 Summit?
Based on the results of the G8 summit, it seems that the leaders are listening to anti-poverty advocates and supporters. This year, world leaders increased aid to Africa by 25 billion, doubling the assistance given in 2004. Additionally, world leaders vow to alleviate 100 percent of the debt in some of the poorest nations.
According to members of the one campaign, the success of the G8 summit can be attributed largely to the Live 8. Live 8 provided a forum for individuals to articulate their outrage concerning the situation in Africa. Because so many people participated in the event, politicians were forced to address these concerns. Consequentially, demands pertaining to debt cancellation, disease prevention, education and free trade were discussed. Although the summit did not meet all of the suggestions put forth by the organizers of Live 8, it is still considered a step in the right direction.
However, whether these policies are implemented properly depends on the vigilance of anti-poverty organizations and supporters. To ensure justice in Africa, campaigners encourage individuals to pressure politicians to turn these promises into reality. Although the campaign has been successful thus far, continued success is dependent on the utilization of the media. Essentially, celebrity endorsements have significantly raised awareness about the conditions in Africa; yet, without a continuation of this heavy promotion, that newfound interest in the cause will likely dwindle.
The prevalent message being conveyed by various organizations is that the eradication of poverty is feasible in the near future if world leaders intervene. However, members of the government and U.N. feel this idealistic vision is not necessarily attainable and will have negative repercussions if expectations are not met. Although campaigns like One raise awareness, they do not necessarily paint an accurate picture of what is going on in Africa, critics say.
In order to "make poverty history," corrupt governments must be dismantled and all funding must be maximized and tracked. Although the fate of third world countries is largely dependent on world leaders, the situation is much more complicated than anti-poverty campaigns portray, critics assert. If funds are not properly distributed, the situation can actually worsen which is completely counterproductive. Thus the alleviation of debt, famine, disease and deficits in education requires more than money; it requires a long-term commitment to social justice.
Astrid Spota is an intern at World Hunger Year.
