Historic new European laws that could help millions of people lift themselves out of extreme poverty are hanging in the balance ahead of a crucial vote. Some of the world’s biggest companies are lobbying hard to maintain the secrecy that allows corrupt officials to profit from the sale of natural resources, instead of investing in vital services like schools, roads and hospitals that would benefit all their citizens. A group of key Members of the European Parliament have the opportunity to stand up to this. We are asking them to do the right thing and we will be watching how they vote. And we need your help. Please help shine a powerful spotlight on them by saying you will be watching them too.
These MEPs are about to vote on crucial details of the draft EU law which, if kept strong, would force companies to publish the full details of the payments they make to governments where they operate. With billions of dollars at stake, this would help citizens of many poor countries to fight corruption and strive for a better, more prosperous future. The United States made an extraordinary breakthrough with similar laws. Europe must follow suit and this is our chance to do it.
The MEPs will return from their summer break to decide their voting positions. ONE Organisation created online postcards for people across Europe to send them a clear message, which they will print out and deliver to them personally. They will attend the vote and publish the results on their website for everyone to see. Please add your voice by sending your own postcard at the link bellow. Together as ONE we can continue making a difference. ( By Stuart McWilliam from www.ONE.org )
www.act.one.org