Did you know that over half of all development aid comes from a single body? This body represents 503 million people, 85% of which believe that development aid is important, 67% think that they should be giving more aid, and two-thirds believe that tackling poverty in developing countries should be a priority.
Have you figured it out yet?
It is of course, the European Union. Made up of 28 European countries, over half of all development aid comes from the EU and its member states, making them collectively the world’s largest donor. Check out this cool video which explains exactly what the EU is and how it works, because let's face it, it can be confusing.
The EU has designated 2015 the year of development
So what does this mean?
In 2015 two vital summits have the chance to change the course of history – one in September that will agree upon new goals – a new framework for humanity – to tackle poverty, inequality and environmental destruction (the Sustainable Development Goals). While in December, new climate action targets will be set by world leaders, a crucial step towards a safer, more equitable planet.
The EU has therefore designated 2015 as the year of development so it can showcase Europe's commitment to these ambitions, and to inspire more Europeans to get engaged and involved in development.
A powerful movement of global citizens demanding action can embolden our leaders, elevate their ambitions, and provide a huge mandate for them to make important commitments on behalf of people everywhere.
To find out more about the European Year of Development, visit europa.eu/eyd2015 or check out the #EYD2015 hashtag on twitter.
How can I be a part of it?
- Become a global citizen at globalcitizen.org.
- Take actions at globalcitizen.org on issues that matter to you most.
- Encourage your friends and family to become global citizens.
- You can join a development organisation.
- You can volunteer to work at a local development project.
- You can contribute to national and international development debates with ideas and thoughts, including via our Facebook and Twitter channels.
P.S. We are happy to announce that we are bringing Global Citizen Tickets to mainland Europe in 2015.
German global citizens can now enter draws for Global Citizen Tickets to Usher at the Olympiahalle München on the 9th of March, or at the SAP Arena Mannheim on the 12th of March. Tickets to Berlin Lollapalooza and Berlin Festival, as well as Benicassim, coming soon.
Find out more and enter the Usher draws now by clicking the image below.
Why are we launching Global Citizen Tickets in Germany?
2015 is going to be a pivotal year for the world.
In September the UN General Assembly will agree upon new goals – a new framework for humanity – to tackle poverty, inequality and environmental destruction (the Sustainable Development Goals). While in December, the UN Climate Change Conference will set new climate action targets, a crucial step towards a safer, more equitable planet.
All global citizens must stand up and let world leaders know that we demand ambitious goals, such as end to extreme poverty by 2030, more renewable energy, less inequality and discrimination, and greater food security.
Germany and Europe really matter
German global citizens have an important role to play in 2015.
As one of the most influential countries in the world, with one of the most respected and influential world leaders (Forbes ranked Angela Merkel as the 5th most powerful person in the world), Germany will play a key role in these negotiations. As chair of the G7 group of countries (which also includes France, Italy, and the UK), it has already set its global agenda, and to be honest, we were impressed!
But setting an ambitious agenda and delivering on it are unfortunately two very different things. That is why we must keep up the pressure, and that is where you come in! We need you to take action with us, and help us to put pressure on European governments at key moments throughout the year.
So over the next few months watch for more German and Europe-related content, campaigns, actions, and of course, Global Citizen Tickets to incredible events.
2015 could be the most important year of our generation, it is time for global citizens around the world to stand up and let our voices be heard!
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Mikey Smyth