Economic justice The widespread implementation of neo-liberal policies globally is resulting in a diminished capacity of national governments to develop economic policies in the interests of their own citizens. Unfair trade practices and domestic subsidy policies among Northern countries are resulting in the destruction of local economies – in agriculture, in small-scale manufacturing – upon which millions of Southern livelihoods depend. As national economies become more integrated into the international economic system, wealth is being concentrated in fewer hands. Large numbers of people are being impoverished as they lose the capacity to sustain themselves.
Inter Pares and our counterparts are promoting alternative visions of economic justice predicated on reciprocity and universality. This work includes the promotion of the democratization of decision-making and government policies that lead to inclusion and participation, especially of the most vulnerable. It includes defending the rights of people for access to resources for their livelihoods. These processes aim to re-establish the power and accountability of governments to set national social and economic policies that protect and promote the interests of all citizens.
Inter Pares and our counterparts are working to help citizens' organizations understand and participate in debates related to international trade and economic issues and to articulate alternatives based on sovereignty, justice, inclusion and sustainability. Inter Pares and our counterparts promote the creation and protection of livelihoods, in both rural and urban environments, that maintain communities, preserve and enhance social support networks, and foster local economic development. This work includes environmental conservation activities and ecological agricultural methods, as well as innovative approaches to food sovereignty that strengthen local food security and local communities. A major focus of this work is the recognition of the fundamental role that women play in building and maintaining livelihoods, and strengthening women's decision-making in areas of economic activity.
Inter Pares and our counterparts are involved in a wide variety of economic justice and anti-poverty activities. This includes the promotion of socially responsible investment of pension funds, local economic development, advocating the adoption of legislated human rights obligations of corporate entities, tax justice, and research, documentation, networking and educational activities in support of the development of democratic economies.
Links to recent Inter Pares Bulletin articles related to this theme
Learning and Acting Together; Vol. 32, No. 1, February 2010
Solidarity Is Our Security; Volume 31, Number 4, September 2009
Economic Justice: Sharing the Collective Wealth; Volume 30, Number 2, June 2008
Reclaiming the Romance of Social Change; Vol. 29, No. 4, November 2007
Entrusted with Stories: A Window on Colombia; Vol. 29, No. 1, February 2007
Links to reports, articles and presentations related to this theme
| Reviewed February 2, 2010 |  |
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