Options' statement on UK government White Paper on International Development

On 20 November, the UK government published its first White Paper on global development since 2009, outlining the action needed to accelerate progress towards achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030.

James Harcourt, Options’ Managing Director responds to the White Paper:

“Options is pleased to see this new White Paper from the UK government with a strong focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, and within that, a re-commitment to achieving universal health coverage. Core to this is strengthening health systems, with a focus on making them climate resilient.

“At the heart of the government’s approach to global health is ensuring equal opportunities for women and girls and those who are most marginalised, including people with disabilities. By putting them at the forefront of action to achieve gender equality and opportunities for everyone, we can ensure that interventions are designed and delivered with them and for them.

“We’re also pleased to see the commitment to working in partnership with local organisations, and in particular women’s rights organisations. Long-term sustainable change can’t be achieved without this.

“But these ambitious statements won’t be realised without commitment from across government departments, to put these words into action. It also needs financial resourcing, and a return to spending 0.7% of GNI on international development.

As a long-term delivery partner of UK aid, Options is committed to working with FCDO and other partners to see these global commitments become a reality.”

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The White Paper is available to view on the UK Government website.