Oxfam Office in Washington DC

Decisions made by International Financial Institutions, such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), affect the lives of millions of people around the world. 

From Oxfam International's office in Washington, D.C., we advocate for policies and approaches that fight inequality, safeguard our planet, and hold the World Bank Group and IMF accountable for the development outcomes of their actions. We believe that affected communities must have a voice in the financial decisions that shape their lives, and that economic policies must serve people, not just markets.

Our Priorities

Ensuring access to public services

We push international financial institutions (IFIs) to support governments in investing in universal, quality and free public health, education, and social protection so that everyone can live with dignity, without being forced into debt.

Tackling the climate crisis

We demand that IFIs finance climate solutions that prioritize the most affected communities, help countries adapt to climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and protect ecosystems.

Promoting fair and progressive taxation

Oxfam calls on the IMF and the WBG to support tax reforms that ensure the richest pay their fair share, thereby redistributing resources and power and enabling governments to adequately fund essential services.

Strengthen accountability

We work to support affected communities to voice their concerns and hold decision-makers accountable and engage with independent accountability mechanisms (IAMs) such as the Compliance Advisor/Ombudsman (CAO) and Inspection Panel —to ensure that IFI-funded projects do no harm, and where harm occurs, there is redress and effective remedy.

Challenge harmful lending conditions 

We advocate against loan agreements or other arrangements that push countries to cut spending on essential services or privatize public assets. These policies particularly serve as barriers to gender equality and exacerbate other forms of structural inequalities.

Get Involved

Explore our latest research, join our campaigns, and help us ensure that global financial policies work for everyone, everywhere.