A global policy based on ethical values and economic justice

Fastenopfer works to ensure that greater attention is paid to the needs of people in the South by institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO). The influence of the United Nations must be strengthened in this process. The umbrella organisation of the Lenten campaigns, CIDSE, works at international level in this area. Its work includes intensive networking with other non-governmental organisations, such as grassroots groups of the Catholic church and partners in the South.

Global Governance is an important value in all areas of CIDSE's work. In 2001, a project group set up by the umbrella organisation began to define this concept and develop guidelines for its short and long-term work. In 2004, a position paper was published under the title 'Working Towards Progressive Global Governance', in English, French and Italian.

CIDSE attaches great importance to ethical values as well as economic justice, solidarity and subsidiarity. It subjects international institutions to critical analysis to determine whether they adhere to democratic rules and engage all those involved in the decision-making processes. It supports civil society and develops networks among the participants.

The paper looks closely at the work of international institutions such as the World Bank, the WTO, the IMF and the UN, as well as national governments and groupings such as the G8. It makes proposals for a new structure based on ethical values and greater economic justice.