“The younger generation, my generation, we are the ones coming up in the world. And we must continue to push this movement forward and close the gap. We must demand full equality for all.” Lady Gaga
Insults and bullying are acts of discrimination associated with differences in gender, race, ethnicity, religion, education, or wealth.
Prejudice and disregard for others explode on a grand scale affecting entire regions of the world, separating families, alienating communities, and dividing nations.
Tolerance by itself is not enough.
We must embrace diversity, pursue inclusivity, and demonstrate social responsibility, so all people might achieve their potential and be rewarded accordingly.
So, what does money have to do with inequality?
Most of the world's wealth is held by developed countries. But if that's the case, then how does the wealth disparity impact developing nations or the least developed countries (LDCs)?
High tariffs on goods exported from these developing countries diminish profits. Funding for new business opportunities may be costly or unattainable.
Employment, education, technology, healthcare, sanitation, and housing may not be readily available to the general population.
Wealth is retained by the few and scarcity is the norm.
We cannot afford to ignore the inequalities within and among these countries.
These inequalities impact more than wealth. They diminish health and prevent education. To make a lasting change, we need a global solution.
Can’t people just leave if they aren’t being treated fairly?
In theory, yes. But putting the idea into practice is much harder than you think.
Poverty, unemployment, corruption, discrimination, and conflict sometimes force people to abandon their homes in search of better opportunities, safer environments, and improved quality of life.
Refugees often flee under threat, without documentation, leaving behind family and friends only to face loneliness, adversity, and prejudice in their new settings. Once they find work, the fees to send money home (remittances) to loved ones are cost prohibitive.
What would it take to truly reduce inequalities for all?
What needs to be done to deliver on those promises for all?
Laws supporting discrimination need to be eliminated. Tariffs and fees on migrant remittances need to be reduced to encourage trade and economic growth.
Social protection policies regarding safety, promoting opportunity, and advancing healthcare must be endorsed.
Governments, financial institutions, and international development organizations should operate effectively and be held accountable.
Work is already underway and progress is being made, but there is more to do.
Awareness fuels the desire to make a difference. Collaboration and cooperation harness the energy and the creative genius of many to address real-world problems.
Learn more about the issues around inequity and explore some of the solutions. Then consider how you can help make the world better for everyone.
What's Next?
Learn more about Global Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
"Reduce inequality within and among countries," United Nations Progress Report, 2019