The Global Agenda for Inequality: Can Burnham Seize the Moment?

In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the global nature of inequality, with far-reaching consequences extending beyond borders and economies. This pressing issue requires a coordinated response from nations around the world. However, progress has been slow, with many countries still struggling to address their own domestic inequalities.

The push for an International Panel on Inequality (IPI) at the UN is a welcome development. Backed by prominent economists and academics such as Joseph Stiglitz, Mariana Mazzucato, and Kate Pickett, the initiative aims to create an independent global evidence base on inequality, alongside analysis of policies that can reduce it.

The UK’s potential involvement in the IPI, with Andy Burnham’s government considering signing up, is particularly noteworthy. As the country prepares to chair the G20 next year, this presents an opportunity for Burnham to demonstrate his leadership on the world stage. The academics’ letter highlights the significance of this moment, urging Burnham to use his attendance at the UN General Assembly in November to signal the UK’s strong support for the IPI.

The implications of such a move are significant. Would it genuinely cement Burnham’s commitment to addressing inequality on a global scale? Or would it be seen as merely symbolic, failing to translate into meaningful policy changes?

The UK’s track record on international development is mixed, with recent cuts to aid spending sparking concern among experts and charities. The slashing of overseas aid by 90% in some African countries has had devastating consequences. It’s essential that any backing of the IPI is accompanied by a clear commitment to increase aid spending and support development initiatives.

The involvement of Brazil, South Africa, Norway, and Spain in setting up the IPI highlights the importance of global cooperation in addressing inequality. This collaboration is critical, given the complex web of relationships between nations, economies, and policies that perpetuate inequality.

However, creating an independent evidence base on inequality will require significant resources and coordination among nations. Translating recommendations into effective policy changes will also be a challenge, especially in a world where global economic instability and competing interests often take precedence.

In the end, it’s up to Burnham and his government to seize this moment and demonstrate their commitment to addressing inequality on a global scale. The academics’ letter is a timely reminder that progress requires not only domestic efforts but also international cooperation. As Stewart Wood, Foreign Office minister for growth, noted in response to the letter, changing the way our economy works so it’s fairer and more productive does indeed require working with other countries and institutions.

Burnham now has a chance to cement his leadership on the world stage by supporting the IPI. He must decide whether to seize this moment or let it pass.