Data Statement On Organisation For Economic Co-Operation And Development (OECD) Report On 2006 Development Assistance Figures

04.03.07

Statement from Jamie Drummond, Executive Director of DATA:
"According to these very preliminary numbers, the G8 remain collectively off track in keeping their commitments to Africa. The OECD reported that aid flows to Africa, excluding debt relief, increased by only 1%, but these figures did not take into account multilateral contributions. When multilateral contributions, again excluding debt relief, are taken into account, the G8's aid to Africa increased by about 9%.

If these numbers are correct, this is insufficient progress on the G8 promises to end extreme poverty in Africa. Some G8 countries are doing better than others but only the UK is showing a significant increase in aid. Additionally, according to the OECD, despite this meager increase for Africa, global development assistance levels decreased in 2006.

The positive news out of today's announcement is that G8 this year are more transparent in reporting their aid figures.

The G8 must try harder but how much harder is not exactly clear. There are many areas within the DAC numbers which need careful scrutiny. We will continue to analyze these numbers and intend to get clarity by the release of the DATA Report in May."

Contact: Taylor Thompson, +1 202.360.1306, tthompson@data.org