Christian charity wants G-20 to pay attention to child poverty

In the run up to the G20, French President Sarkozy invited certain civil society organisations to get their inputs on various issues as he prepares to host the G20 Summit in Cannes. World Vision was represented by Dr Jayakumar Christian, the National Director of World Vision India.

In a meeting that lasted over an hour, various issues were discussed including the changing role and importance of NGOs in the developmental space. Dr Jayakumar Christian, World Vision called for accountability of the promises made in past G8 and G20 Summits in terms of the Global Food Crisis and commitments to MDGs 4 and 5.

World Vision has asked for intentional and strategic emphasis on situation of children who are so deeply impacted by food insecurity and poor nutrition.

"There have been significant improvements for children over the past decade, but we cannot stop now. It's not too late to help the 200 million children suffering from malnutrition every day," said Dr. Christian

President Sarkozy assured Dr Christian that he recognised the importance of nutrition and expressed his personal commitment to investment in agricultural development. He indicated the need to set up a mechanism for monitoring productivity and prices and focus on the critical issue of food reserves.

The G20, which accounts for two-thirds of the world's population, 90% of the world's GNP and 80% of the world's trade has a duty to provide concrete solutions to development problems especially in fulfilling the promises made on the MDGs.

Since taking the Chair of the G20, the French presidency has already called for specific efforts to support infrastructure development and to ensure food security in the most vulnerable countries.

He pointed out that the G20 was not 20 global leaders meeting to talk, but is actually about 20 societies coming together to look at global issues.

Commenting on the value of this meeting with President Sarkozy, Dr. Christian said, "This kind of opportunity is so important for organisations like World Vision because we are able to bring the lives and stories of children we work with directly to some of the most powerful leaders in the world. The decisions made by President Sarkozy and other G20 leaders will have a direct impact on the children we work with in 100 countries around the world."

World Vision India has been in touch with the Indian Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh and his delegation as they prepare to participate in the G20 as well, stressing on the same issues to be brought to the fore in this global forum.

World Vision will be present in Cannes for the G20, to further influence and advocate for the poor and voiceless in India and elsewhere.