CHAIRMAN of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR) Puan Maharani is of the opinion that the current global crisis is the most dangerous since World War II. He conveyed this at the 10th G-20 Parliamentary Speaker’s Summit (P20) which was held in Brazil, South America.
Puan was the speaker in the session entitled Parliament‘s Contribution to the Fight Against Hunger, Poverty and Inequality which was held on Thursday (7/11) afternoon local time. He said geopolitical tensions started from Covid-19, economic instability and climate change.
War and various conflicts, continued Puan, have also increased food and energy insecurity. He said that almost 700 million people or 8.5% of the world’s global population still live in extreme poverty.
news">Also read: In Mexico, Puan encourages middle power countries to urge a permanent ceasefire in Gaza
“We live in a time of geopolitical tension, war and increasing conflict. Perhaps this is the most dangerous time since World War II. In short, the world is facing a storm at the same time,” said Puan.
Puan said that increasing geopolitical tensions and intense competition between countries had diverted world attention from poor communities. Even though global military spending will reach US$2.4 trillion in 2023 or the equivalent of 2.3% of global GDP.
Meanwhile, in the same period, official development assistance (ODA) amounted to US$223.7 billion or less than 10% of global military spending.
news">Also read: Strong Parliament is the Solution to Overcoming the Global Crisis
“Even though we know that the international community is having difficulty allocating budgets for climate funding and building schools, health facilities and other development needs for developing countries,” explained Puan.
If the world can allocate 50% of global military spending or around US$1.2 trillion every year until 2030 to help poor people, Puan imagines that the world will be free from poverty and hunger.
He hopes that P20 can encourage parliament to renew political commitment to sharpen budget allocations in each country. The goal is to create a more peaceful and prosperous world, for both large and small countries.
“We are all political leaders in our countries who can make a difference. We can influence the government in our respective countries, including influencing the resolution of our disputes and differences in a peaceful way,” he stressed. (Tri/I-2)
#Puan #Calls #Current #Global #Crisis #Dangerous #World #War
**Interview with Puan Maharani, Chairman of the Indonesian House of Representatives, on the 10th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Puan. You recently attended the 10th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit in Brazil. Can you tell us about the main themes discussed at the summit?
**Puan Maharani:** Thank you for having me. The summit focused on the theme “Parliaments for a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” As global leaders, we addressed critical issues ranging from hunger and poverty to inequality, all exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions and the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned in your speech that this global crisis is the most dangerous since World War II. What specific challenges do you believe are contributing to this dire situation?
**Puan Maharani:** The interconnectedness of our current challenges is alarming. Geopolitical tensions, economic instability, and the impact of climate change are all contributing factors. The war and regional conflicts have heightened food and energy insecurity, driving millions into extreme poverty. As I highlighted, around 700 million people, or 8.5% of the global population, are suffering from extreme poverty today.
**Interviewer:** That’s a staggering number. What role do you think parliamentarians can play in combating these issues?
**Puan Maharani:** Parliamentarians have a crucial role in crafting policies that address these challenges. We must advocate for sustainable development assistance and create frameworks that prioritize support for the most vulnerable in our societies. Only through collaborative efforts and shared responsibilities can we hope to tackle issues like hunger and inequality effectively.
**Interviewer:** Looking forward, what actions do you propose that can lead toward a more just and sustainable world?
**Puan Maharani:** Immediate action is needed to align our policies with the Sustainable Development Goals. We should strengthen international cooperation, promote equitable resource distribution, and ensure that our responses to crises like food and energy insecurity are swift and comprehensive. It’s vital that we increase awareness and mobilization around these issues within our parliaments.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Puan Maharani, for sharing these insights. Your leadership in these discussions is vital as we navigate such complex global challenges.
**Puan Maharani:** Thank you for the opportunity to speak on these important matters. Together, we can strive for a brighter and more equitable future.