International sustainable development

Helping to tackle world poverty and providing assistance when there is major disaster or emergency, is part of being a good international citizen in the global community. Support for international sustainable development has many benefits for Wales and Welsh people.

Many of the problems which affect us, such as war and conflict, international crime, refugees, the trade in illegal drugs and the spread of diseases like Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), are caused or made worse by poverty in developing countries. Getting rid of poverty will make for a better world for everybody.

Wales also has a part to play in promoting sustainable development internationally and addressing issues such as climate change and renewable energy at a global level.

The main responsibility for international development within the United Kingdom rests with the UK Department for International Development (DfID). However, there is a demand from within Wales for there to be a clear Welsh contribution to international development and addressing global disasters and emergencies. The Welsh Assembly Government’s ‘Wales for Africa Framework’ describes how Wales can do this.

Through activities such as making links between Welsh and African communities and hospitals, Wales is contributing to the delivery of the United Nations (UN) Millennium Development Goals. These goals were agreed by every UN member state in 1999 and aim to halve global poverty by 2015.

Buying Fair Trade products is also a way to support some of the poorest farmers and producers in the world. The Welsh Assembly Government supports the ongoing Fair Trade Nation Campaign. Wales became the world’s first Fair Trade Nation in June 2008.

Wales is a founder member of the Network of Regional Governments for Sustainable Development (nrg4SD) – an internationally recognized network which works within the UN system to promote intergovernment activity on this vital topic.

If you would like more information on this work please contact the International Sustainable Development and Wales for Africa Team: e-mail – walesforafrica@wales.gsi.gov.uk

Wales has a proud history of international solidarity and if you want to get involved in any aspect of overseas development, there may be an organisation near you that can help.

Gold Star Communities - develops excellence in community linking between Wales and Africa to build peace, prosperity and understanding, through mutual development.

Hospital and Health Linking - Aims to facilitate a co-ordinated and effective approach to promoting and supporting the development of the global health agenda in Wales.

Fair Trade Wales - co-ordinating work on Fair Trade across Wales, which led to Wales becoming a Fair Trade Nation. Supports schools and local groups.

SMIDOS (Small and Medium sized International Development Organisations in Wales) - advice, support and training for small and medium development international development organisations.