Although world leaders took some steps in the right direction at this years G20, critics claim that not enough was done to fight world hunger.
On November 3 and 4, 20 heads of government met and discussed world issues and economic matters at the 2011 G20 summit. This year was unique, as G20 participants were asked to review proposals to act on world hunger. According to Oxfam, rising food prices are affecting the world’s already-struggling demographics, and fighting world hunger should be a top priority.
But did the world leaders take the advice of the proposals and adopt measures to fight global inequality and hunger? Yes and no, is the answer from Oxfam. As it is so often with politics, the reaction is complicated and mixed.
The World Food Program USA (WFP) applauds leaders for removing food export restrictions and extraordinary taxes on food purchased by the WFP for aid.
However, although Oxfam agrees that G20 leaders took steps to combat rising food prices with a potential Financial Transaction Tax and increased market transparency, it bemoans that leaders did not help to fix the causes of the broken food system such as the rise in biofuels. Interestingly, organics has been proposed by some other groups as a solution.
If you agree or disagree with the actions taken by politicians, remember that activism, either by groups like Oxfam or passionate individuals, shapes political movements, so don’t be afraid to get involved and be the change you want to see in the world!
