Oxfam reaction to Global Partnership for Education donor commitments pledged today

Published: 9th November 2011

In response to donor commitments announced at the Global Partnership for Education replenishment meeting in Copenhagen today, Oxfam’s Education Policy Advisor, Katie Malouf Bous, said:

“Oxfam welcomes the substantial commitments made today by governments to the Global Partnership for Education totaling $1.5 bn, which will be a crucial lifeline for millions of children in poor countries who are currently denied the chance to go to school."

"The UK, Australia, Denmark and the Netherlands lead the pack with new funds for what is the most effective global initiative to support basic education – but other donors must come forward in the next months to ensure the full funding target is reached. Investing in education is investing in future generations who will be able to work their way out of poverty rather than being dependent on aid."

“Developing countries are the true champions of education at this event. Despite difficult fiscal situations, today they made historic commitments of over $2 bn collectively, to increase spending and commitment to education in their own countries.”

“We were pleased to see the World Bank reaffirm last year’s commitment to increase lending for the poorest countries; now we must see the money actually delivered, especially for sub-Saharan Africa."

Contact information

For more information, or to arrange an interview with an Oxfam spokesperson from the event in Copenhagen, please contact:

Sarah Dransfield, Oxfam Press Officer, on +44 (0)1865 472269, +44 (0)7767 085636 or email: sdransfield@oxfam.org.uk