Put People First - 35,000 march on the G20
The global financial and economic system is in crisis. Current economic policies and institutions have overseen an economic system scarred by high levels of poverty and inequality, which is contributing to an environmental catastrophe. Already policy makers are speaking of the systemic failure of the current financial architecture and the need for regulation.
Put People First is an unprecedented collaboration between a wide spectrum of charities, trade unions, environmentalists, faith and development groups, formed in response to the failings of the current system.
The march on Saturday, the first initiative of the coalition, was a great day for everyone. Tens of thousands of people from all over the country came to take part in the demonstration, which was a festival-like atmosphere. Many were later entertained by the speakers, musicians and comedians performing at the rally in Hyde Park. The day illustrated the frustration many feel at the damage caused by unregulated and unaccountable free markets.
There were similar protests in Germany, France and Spain, with events planned later in India, Indonesia, Japan and Italy. These events send a powerful global statement to the G20 leaders that the world is not happy and wants real change, not just tinkering with the old regime.
Jubilee Debt Campaign supporters were out in force on the day, carrying our placards, waving our flags, or just coming to say hello at the stall. There was also a real interest from other marchers in the issues surrounding debt relief, with many coming to chat to us and taking away literature.
We were joined on the day by Jubilee Scotland and the supporters of Erlassjahr, the German Jubilee campaign, were also in the crowd. Many Jubilee Debt Campaigners enjoyed the ecumenical church service at Central Hall, Westminster, which heard calls for the G20 to act justly, before joining the march at Parliament Square.
We were very pleased with the turnout on Saturday and the huge support for the Put People First policy platform. The Put People First coalition is calling for the UK government to make real changes within the UK and to push for a global shift in financial and environmental policies.
The demands centre around decent jobs and access to public services for all, eradication of global poverty and inequality and the building of a green economy. For these demands to be met, the markets must be made to work for the many, not just the few and the institutions that dictate much of everyday life must be radically changed to make them democratically accountable.
Saturday’s march was just the beginning – the UK holds the chair of the G20 throughout 2009, and we will continue to demand radical change at UN, G8, and G20 Finance Ministers meetings over the course of the year.
To view the policy platform and download the paper, go to www.putpeoplefirst.org.uk/about-us/policy-platform/
