Make Poverty History

Make Poverty History was the largest ever campaign organised against global poverty. Around the UK campaigners organised marches, bike rides, vigils, drama, walks, concerts, debates and rallies. The white band – global symbol of the campaign to make poverty history – was worn on wrists, draped on buildings, tied to lampposts, trees, statues and landmarks including London’s St Paul’s Cathedral. 

• The C8 Children's Forum brought young people from across the world together to take action on global issues. Plan UK organised for children from Kenya, Malawi and the UK to take part in the C8 and to present their report to the wives of the G8 leaders. 
• Over three million children asked Prime Minister Tony Blair to urge the G8 leaders to ‘Send My Friend to School’, highlighting the vital importance of education for generations of children as a way out of poverty.
• Over 1,500 young people attended a Global Student Forum and pupils from G8 countries presented their own communiqué to the G8 leaders.

Campaign Success

The G8's commitment to support universal access to HIV treatment for all those who need it by 2010 was the clearest success of the campaign, a significant and important policy shift. The target was endorsed at the UN World Summit and became an international commitment.

Whether you wore a white band, emailed your MP or took part in the Edinburgh rally we want to say thank you. You have been part of the biggest ever anti-poverty movement and in doing so you made history.

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