9 March 2012

Brief to the incoming Government: Working together for effective aid and development

The Council for International Development has released a comprehensive ‘Brief to the incoming Government’ which details 28 specific actions it is urging the Government to act on in the short and medium term relating to international aid and development.

“This document outlines for the Government, other political parties and New Zealanders the key development challenges we need to tackle if we want to make the world a better place for ourselves and others”, said Dr Wren Green, Director, Council for International Development.

“The brief is titled ‘Working together for effective aid and development’ which indicates that our members can work with partners, including Government and the private sector, to achieve ‘win-win’ outcomes”, said Dr Green.

New Zealand’s development non-government organisations (NGOs) make an important contribution to development initiatives. They have a combined annual income of about $185 million and are currently working in 71 countries, in all continents, and with strong commitments to Pacific Island countries.

These NGOs are the key conduit for many thousands of New Zealanders who last year donated over $114 million in support of international development and disaster relief. The World Giving Index 2011 found New Zealander’s to be the most generous nation in the world, per capita, of their time and money. “Our members deeply appreciate this public support”, said Dr Green.

The brief emphasises that development is about fulfilling the rights and needs of people. Reducing poverty and inequalities are realistic and achievable international goals that New Zealand aid can support in pragmatic and effective ways.

“Sustainable development means building stronger synergies between economic development, social justice and environmental protection. These need to be mutually reinforcing objectives.” stressed Dr Green.

The Council for International Development is the umbrella organisation for 62 New Zealand development NGOs and is based in Wellington. The ‘Brief to the incoming Government’ can be downloaded from www.cid.org.nz

ENDS

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