UK urged to support Brazil's fight against poverty

In a groundbreaking move at the recent G20 summit, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has initiated the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, aiming to revitalize the global agenda on sustainable development goals (SDGs). Lula emphasized the urgency of addressing hunger and poverty, stating, “Nothing is as unacceptable in the 21st century as the persistence of hunger and poverty.” This initiative not only seeks to combat these pressing issues but also offers the UK a chance to mend its reputation in international development. The Global Alliance draws inspiration from Brazil’s successful “zero hunger” campaign, which Lula first launched in 2003. This campaign, characterized by inclusive growth, cash transfers, and a universal school meal program, has been heralded as a significant human development achievement. Lula’s vision is to replicate this success on a global scale, but translating the alliance's goals into actionable strategies poses significant challenges. One major hurdle is the ongoing debt crisis affecting many impoverished nations, which threatens to push them into insolvency. The G20’s current framework for debt relief has been criticized for its ineffectiveness, and there is a pressing need for political leaders to adopt a more assertive approach to commercial debt. With many governments in poorer countries eager to expand school meal programs, an investment of $1.2 billion could potentially benefit over 230 million children, addressing hunger and enhancing educational outcomes. The UK’s commitment to the World Bank’s International Development Association will be a crucial test of its dedication to this cause. Historically, the UK Treasury has played a pivotal role in addressing global debt crises, and its actions in the coming months could significantly influence the success of the Global Alliance.