Nairobi, Kenya, August 16, 2024 – As the United Nations Tax Convention, aimed at reshaping the global tax architecture, civil society organizations deeply engaged in the process have hailed the final draft as a significant step forward in pursuing a fairer, transparent and more inclusive global tax system and called on all governments to support it.
Fred Njehu, Greenpeace Pan African Political Strategist said:
“The release of this draft marks a historic moment in the global effort to democratize international tax governance. It is a testament to the tireless advocacy of countries from the Global South, who have pushed for a fair and transparent system that reflects the needs of all, not just the wealthiest few. We call on all governments to support this draft and ensure that it is adopted without delay.”
The draft ToR for the UN Tax Convention, which has been under negotiation since February 2024, aims to establish a fully inclusive and effective international tax cooperation framework. It promises to address the systemic issues that have allowed tax evasion, illicit financial flows, and unequal tax burdens to persist, thereby deepening global inequality and hindering sustainable development. The document is widely seen as a crucial opportunity to reshape international tax rules that have long favored wealthy nations and multinational corporations at the expense of the Global South
“Although this draft is a ambitious and a major step in the right direction, it is weaker than what developing countries were calling for. Nevertheless, its success hinges on the collective will of the international community. By adopting this framework, we can pave the way for a tax system that not only raises the necessary revenues for sustainable development but also holds polluters and tax evaders accountable. This is a pivotal moment, and we must seize it.” added Njehu.
The new draft reflects the mounting pressure on governments to ensure that multinational corporations and the ultra-wealthy contribute their fair share to the global economy. It incorporates critical commitments to fair taxation, the prevention of tax-related illicit financial flows, and the inclusion of all nations—especially developing countries—in the decision-making process.
Greenpeace Africa urges governments to endorse the draft ToR. The final vote on the UN Tax Convention is a crucial moment for the future of global tax cooperation. The adoption of the ToR would pave the way for the negotiation of a comprehensive UN Tax Convention, ushering in a new era of tax justice and enabling developing countries to mobilize critical resources for healthcare, education, infrastructure, and climate action.
For more information, please contact:
Ferdinand Omondi, Communication and Story Manager, Greenpeace Africa
[email protected] / Cell: +254 722 505 233
Greenpeace Africa Press Desk
[email protected]
