Civil Society Calls for Debt Cancellation, Fair Financial Systems and Climate Finance Accountability

The Africa Regional People’s Assembly 2024 was conducted virtually on 17 September. In a call to action, African civil society leaders from across the continent have issued the African Declaration for Economic, Social, and Climate Justice, demanding transformative reforms to address debt distress, economic inequalities, and climate challenges.

Download the Declaration of Africa Regional People’s Assembly 2024

The Declaration calls for immediate debt cancellation, equitable financial systems, and enhanced representation for African nations in international financial institutions (IFIs) such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. It also demands climate finance accountability from the Global North and urges African leadership in clean energy initiatives.

Speaking at the Assembly, civil society leaders stressed the urgency of the moment. “African nations are being crushed by unsustainable debts and unfair global financial systems,” said Fatou Diallo, a key representative. “It is time to cancel these debts and democratize institutions like the IMF and World Bank so that our countries have a real voice in decisions that affect our futures.”

Economic Justice at the Forefront

The Declaration’s first article focuses on economic justice, with civil society demanding the immediate cancellation of debts that drain resources from critical sectors such as healthcare and education. The Declaration also calls for the democratization of international financial institutions and a redistribution of voting rights to give African countries more decision-making power.

“We demand that African nations be given a fair seat at the table,” Diallo added. “For too long, decisions have been made for us, not with us.”

Social Inclusion and Civic Freedoms

The Declaration also highlights the importance of inclusive development and social justice, with special attention to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), advocating for their rights and access to opportunities. Additionally, it calls for increased social investments in healthcare, education, and technology, alongside the protection of civic spaces across Africa.

“Social justice means no one gets left behind, especially the most marginalized,” stated Mbali Ncube, an advocate for disability rights.

Climate Justice Demands Accountability

On climate justice, the Declaration affirms the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities, stressing that the Global North must honor its climate finance pledges to support Africa’s adaptation and mitigation efforts. Civil society leaders demanded that funds come in the form of grants, not loans, and that Africa be at the forefront of clean energy projects.

“Africa contributes the least to global emissions, but we suffer the most from the climate crisis,” emphasized Kofi Mensah, a leading environmental activist. “It’s time for wealthy nations to step up and take responsibility.”

A Call for Global Governance Reforms

The Declaration concludes with a call for reform of global governance systems, urging more transparent, inclusive, and accountable institutions that prioritise the needs of developing nations. African civil society is pushing for a Pact for the Future, ahead of the 2024 Summit of the Future, which they hope will embed Africa’s vision for economic, social, and climate justice.

The participants urged African leaders, governments, and global stakeholders to take immediate and transformative action.

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