G20 summit verdict

 The Put People First platform of charities, unions and campaign groups of which New Internationalist is a member, has given its initial reaction the communiqué of the G20 summit.

 Glen Tarman of BOND, chair of Put People First, said:

"The G20 appears to have made progress on some critical issues but there are also missed opportunities, especially on building a green economy, and causes for real concern in other areas. G20 leaders have not yet gone far enough on the fundamental changes the world needs."

Our campaign for jobs, justice and climate has clearly made some impact, but three big tests remain:

    Will the G20, the UN and the Copenhagen climate conference do far more to break from the failed policies that brought about the global crisis?

    Will governments agree a comprehensive package of policies that will deliver a new financial architecture and ensure the world emerges from the global recession as a fairer and green place?

 *   Where there are positive words today, will they be turned into action tomorrow?

Put People First - and campaigners all around the world - will continue to make the case for change throughout this critical year. Wherever world leaders go to discuss these issues they will hear the voices of ordinary people demanding change.

On March 28 2009 more than 35,000 people marched through central London under the Put People First banner to demand action for jobs, justice and climate.

 www.putpeoplefirst.org.uk