In 1970, the richest countries in the world committed to giving 0.7 percent of their Gross National Income (GNI) to overseas aid. Today, only five countries are meeting this target, and the UK Government has committed to reach the target by 2013.
International aid is helping to fulfil the rights of millions of children worldwide. For example, aid has funded 90 million free mosquito nets over the past five years, restricting the spread of malaria. It also plays a crucial role in helping developing countries make progress towards the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGS).
UNICEF UK is campaigning to ensure that the UK Government meets its 0.7 per cent commitment by 2013 and that aid is directed at the most vulnerable. We are also pushing for the Government to implement a Robin Hood Tax that could raise billions of pounds to alleviate poverty and help countries adapt to the worst impacts of climate change.
Read more about why aid is important.
