Solutions to address debt and sustainable development

International Trade Union Confederation

This project seeks to build strategic cross-movement advocacy for debt relief and restructuring to protect climate action, inclusive jobs growth and social protection. The initiative supports capacity building, research, multipronged advocacy and cross-field work among debt and labor movements. ITUC will work closely with its union affiliates in five debt-distressed countries and engage with governments in debt negotiations while working globally with International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the UN to push for a permanent and fairer debt relief mechanism that encourages a just transition and reinvigorated social protection.

Why it matters

In those countries facing the highest pressure from excessive sovereign debt, greater participatory decision-making is required to ensure sustainable debt levels - and to direct funds to social protection and sustainable development agendas. Expanded social dialogue that moves governments, IFIs and other international organizations to prioritize Sustainable Development Goal achievement as part of debt restructuring, lending and other operations will provide countries with a fighting chance for an inclusive recovery.