Archived News Item

Respond to the Faces behind the Statistics

October 14, 2013

Respond to the faces behind the statistics
Many people have already voiced their deep concern about the impact of any government decision to decrease Australia’s foreign aid budget. The Significant Days during October challenge us to continue demanding the government to respond with compassion and commitment and address the challenge of global poverty. 

– International Day of the Girl Child, 11 October
– Anti-Poverty Week, 13-19 October
– UN International Day of Rural Women, 15 October
– World Food Day, 16 October
– International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, 17 October

Imagine the faces behind the statistics
The Millennium Development Goals Campaign has been instrumental in outstanding accomplishments at the global level however 1.2 billion people are still living in extreme poverty. Almost 870 million people worldwide are chronically undernourished. Unsustainable models of development are significantly damaging the natural environment which has a very negative effect on future food supplies; this need to be addressed. In the last 20 years two billion people gained access to improved drinking water sources however 2.5 billion people live without even basic sanitation and 783 million are still without access to water.

Respond to the faces behind the statistics
There are many Australians living in vulnerable circumstances however Australia must also respond generously to the desperate regional and global situation.  Seeking an end to poverty is integral to our life as Christians.
        They are begging us, you see, in their wordless way
            To do something, to speak on their behalf
                Or at least not to close the door again.
                                        Derek Mahon, ‘A Disused Shed in Co. Wexford’

Let your voice be heard
Inform politicians of your concerns about the Foreign Aid Budget and ask for a commitment to increase the budget.

The Hon Tony Abbott MP                  The Hon Julie Bishop MP
Prime Minister                                Minister for Foreign Affairs
www.pm.gov.au/contact-your-pm     julie.bishop.mp@aph.gov.au

Postal Address
Parliament Office
PO Box 6022
House of Representatives