1. Sweden has long been considered a development world champion
It was the first country in the world to meet the UN target of spending 0.7% of national income on aid, way back in 1975.
Today, most political parties in Sweden agree that they should go even further that the UN target and spend 1% of national income on aid. This commitment allows Sweden to punch well above its weight on the international stage – when Sweden speaks, other governments listen.
2. Sweden could divert 60% of its aid budget away from the world’s poorest
Yes, you read that correctly – up to 60%
Last week it was revealed that the government is seriously considering diverting up to 60% of the aid budget away from the poorest countries in the world and into Sweden in order to cover refugee costs.
3. Sweden’s aid is vital for tackling extreme poverty
It makes a difference to millions of lives in the world’s poorest countries.
Thanks to Swedish aid, in 2014:
- 1.3 million people affected by international crises had access to health facilities
- 91,700 women gave birth in clinics with the assistance of trained midwives
- 576,500 children were vaccinated against measles
- 93,300 people received access to electricity
- Nearly 2.4 million people received access to clean water
Diverting aid away from the poorest countries means the poorest people in the world will have to fight even harder to improve their lives.
4. Sweden should build on its great achievements not diminish them
Sweden has done a beautiful thing by opening its doors to thousands of people who have been forced to flee their homes. But generosity at home must not come at the expense of the world’s poorest people.
5. There’s still time to act!
Government negotiations on this are happening now. Please send an email to Finance Minister Magdalena Andersson and ask her to protect life-saving Swedish aid. It only takes a second and your voice could make all the difference!