PHM-Exch> Key Messages from the Report on the Post 2015 Inequalities Consultation

[Claudio Schuftan]

[excerpts]


Inequalities predominantly affect individuals and groups suffering multiple*
*human rights deprivations. These multiple deprivations and inequalities
are closely associated with and reinforced by specific forms of
discrimination* *in the enjoyment of civil, political, economic, social and
cultural rights. We know inequalities lead to the systematic disadvantage
of some social groups and to the perpetuation of poverty and exclusion from
generation to generation. Policies, programs and interventions intended to
improve the lives of disadvantaged people often only address the symptoms of
inequalities, such as chronic poverty, but not their actual causes. As a
result, patterns of powerlessness, marginalization and exclusion remain
persistent over time. Inequalities are commonly ‘legitimised’ by powerful
groups using stereotypes and prejudice that justify discrimination and
maintain exclusion. Gender-based discrimination, for instance,* *remains
the single most widespread driver of inequalities* *in today’s world. The
new development agenda must enable those whose capabilities have been
harmed by inequalities to claim and realize their rights. Only this will
lead to measures that are transformational enough in orientation rather
than just being marginal or incremental. Needed will be equity-focused and
rights-based policies, as well as legal and program initiatives including:
explicit measures to provide for equal access and opportunity for
disadvantaged and excluded groups; appropriate redistributive measures,
including social protection; provision for the specific needs of women and
girls, children, persons with disabilities and minority groups; adequate
and sustained investment in children, including adolescents, as a means of
combating inequality and promoting future prosperity; and measures to
increase awareness, widen participation in decision-making and improve the
availability and transparency of data and information on inequalities and
development progress.  Also needed will be equitable tax systems that
improve collection rates from sectors and agents that have benefited
disproportionately from aggregate income growth.  (Overview and Key
Messages from the Report on the Post 2015 Inequalities Consultation *
http://www.worldwewant2015.org/node/308651 )*
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