The New Economics Foundation (NEF) is set to publish a compelling manifesto urging Labour leader Andy Burnham to reinstate the UK’s commitment to spending 0.7% of GDP on international aid over the next decade. This initiative, backed by a cadre of influential backbench MPs, aims to re-establish the UK’s role as a global leader in development and reshape foreign policy priorities in light of recent cuts.
A Vision for Development
In a series of essays compiled by the NEF, Labour MPs advocate for a robust strategy that would not only restore the aid spending target but also provide a clear framework for its implementation. The target, originally legislated under former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, was abandoned by Rishi Sunak in 2020 as a temporary measure during the pandemic. However, critics have since argued that this retreat from international commitments undermines the UK’s influence on the global stage.
Fleur Anderson, a former minister with a background in international development, emphasises the importance of establishing a long-term plan rather than adhering to rigid annual targets. “What matters is not mechanical annual targets, but establishing a credible long-term trajectory that partner governments, multilateral institutions, NGOs, and local organisations can plan around,” she states. Her vision includes a gradual return to the 0.7% target, allowing future administrations the flexibility to adapt during crises.
Calls for Global Leadership
The NEF’s publication has garnered support from notable figures within the Labour Party, including David Miliband, who is being considered for a potential role as foreign secretary in a Burnham administration. Liam Byrne, chair of the Commons business and trade committee, has also proposed that the UK leverage its upcoming presidency of the G20 in 2027 to advocate for a global wealth tax. This initiative, he argues, would build on the efforts of previous G20 leaders and address pressing economic inequalities.
Byrne’s call for a wealth tax resonates with development campaigners who have urged the Labour leadership to outline an ambitious agenda for the G20. He highlights the UK’s reputation for effective institutional design, suggesting this could facilitate discussions on creating a tax system that benefits both rich and developing nations.
Revitalising Multilateralism
The Labour Party’s previous tenure, marked by the leadership of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, saw the UK take significant strides in international development, including securing debt relief for impoverished nations. As the country prepares to chair the G20 and G7, Gareth Thomas, another former Labour minister, advocates for these platforms to reignite discussions on the future of global development goals, particularly as the current Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approach their 2030 deadline.
Thomas posits that while the G20 and G7 may not be the ideal forums for establishing new global objectives, the UK’s leadership presents a crucial opportunity to mobilise resources for development. He emphasises the importance of tangible results in demonstrating the value of multilateral cooperation, citing successful initiatives like Gavi, which has provided vaccinations to children in conflict zones at just $1 per dose.
The Path Ahead
The NEF’s chief executive, Danny Sriskandarajah, has underscored the necessity for the UK to pivot from a defensive foreign policy stance to one that proactively addresses global challenges. “A lot of foreign policy has been defensive in recent years, trying to stop things from getting worse, but there is also an opportunity for the UK to show global leadership on key progressive issues,” he asserts.
As Labour contemplates its strategic direction under Burnham’s potential leadership, the proposals outlined in the NEF’s publication may serve as a guiding framework for re-establishing the UK’s commitment to international development.
Why it Matters
The restoration of the 0.7% aid target is not merely a fiscal issue; it represents a fundamental choice about the UK’s role in an increasingly interconnected world. By reaffirming its commitment to international development, the UK can not only enhance its global standing but also contribute to addressing the root causes of instability and inequality. The NEF’s initiative could be a pivotal moment in redefining Britain’s foreign policy, fostering a renewed sense of responsibility towards global solidarity and cooperation.
