The High Cost of Inequality
Globally and in many countries, economic inequality – the gap between the richest and the rest of society – is at alarmingly high levels and often rising. Inequality of wealth is far more concentrated than inequality of income. This inequality is preventing the eradication of poverty and hunger, preventing the realization of our rights, and driving climate breakdown. It is undermining our societies and corroding our politics, as wealth buys power, it buys politicians and buys influence. It is feeding and fueling other inequalities, divisions and hatreds, such as the rise in racism or misogyny.
This Toolkit
Conversely, greater economic equality is the foundation of all progress. For over ten years, Oxfam has organized its work around dismantling inequality and power concentration. Over this time, we have together built our understanding of inequality and what is required to fight for a more equal world. Today, the fight against inequality is more urgent than ever before. This updated toolkit aims to equip Oxfam staff and allies with the skills necessary to scale up their efforts to tackle inequality at the national level. It enables them to analyze and make demands regarding national inequality levels and how we must see concrete plans to reduce them. It includes details about policies and actions proven to reduce inequality, for example on public services, taxation, climate, workers’ rights, debt, and gender.