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Oxfam International recently published a briefing paper -- Inequality kills: the unparalleled action needed to combat unprecedented inequality in the wake of COVID-19. It highlighted the increasing inequality gap between the richest and the poorest and between countries across the world against the backdrop of COVID-19. The report mentioned that the incomes of 99% of humanity are worse off because of COVID-19, while the fortune of the ten richest men in the world was doubled.
This increasing inequality is not by chance but choice: the “economic violence” is perpetuated when structural policy decisions favour the wealthiest and most powerful people. Inequality causes direct harm to us all, while the poorest people, women and girls, and radicalized groups are the most affected.
The report expressed that economies could be fundamentally redesigned to be more centred on equality. The report suggests that we can claw back extreme wealth through progressive taxation; invest in powerful, proven inequality-busting public measures; and boldly shift power in the economy and society. It called for the building of a more equal economy-based by being brave and listening to the movements demanding change.
For the full report, please visit the Oxfam website.
2/3/2022