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Education is a basic human right.
This September children in our communities head back to school. But around the world, debt is robbing children of their hopes and dreams.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Write to your MP now using this handy template to call for a new debt justice law.
Copy and edit the letter below to make it more personal. Then email, or print and send to your MP. Please, let us know if you have by emailing campaigns@christian-aid.org
You can find your MP at They Work for You.
Remember to attach your photo!
Dear [YOUR MP'S NAME]
My name is [YOUR NAME]
I’m writing to you as my MP to share my concerns about the growing global debt crisis that is trapping millions of people in poverty around the world.
This September, millions of children around the UK [IF RELEVENT INSERT including my child/grandchild] are going back to school. Teachers, textbooks, lessons, playtime – our school days give us the opportunity to dream big about our future. Just like I used to dream about being a [INSERT YOUR DREAM JOB].
But around the world, debt is robbing children of their hopes and dreams. Millions of children are being denied the basics of their education from teachers to textbooks, and that’s if school is accessible.
Malawi is one of 25 African nations spending more to pay off debt to private lenders than on funding education. This is having devastating impacts on schooling. In some schools there’s only one teacher for every 100 students and less than half of children complete primary education.
The UK government can play a huge role in helping children in Malawi and other indebted countries achieve their dreams. Most of the debts that burden low-income countries are governed by English law and owed to private companies charging sky high interest. The UK Government is uniquely placed to pass a new law that would compel private lenders to participate in debt relief for lower income countries.
If Malawi's external debt were cancelled down to 10% of revenue it could*:
- Provide 523 more primary school teachers
- Enable 16,500 more children complete primary school
As my representative in Parliament, will you please stand for debt justice and:
- Write to the Chancellor outlining your constituent’s support for debt legislation which will compel commercial creditors to participate in debt restructuring and ask what steps his department is taking to support the passage of the Debt Relief (Developing Countries) Bill.
- Speak to Bambos Charalambous, MP, about the Debt Relief (Developing Countries) Bill, which he has sponsored.
This would mean that children in Malawi and other indebted countries can pursue the future they’re dreaming of.
With thanks,
[YOUR NAME]
[YOUR POSTCODE – this is so that your MP can identify you as a local constituent]
*over seven years
Find out more about the Restore campaign and download your Back to School guide for prayers, stories and how to take action with your church.