By Chinedum Treasure
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has urged the United Kingdom to lead global efforts to reform the international debt system, warning that the growing debt burden of Commonwealth nations is becoming a major development and security challenge.
In a statement ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda, AHF said one in three Commonwealth countries is in debt distress, while 3.4 billion people globally live in countries that spend more on debt servicing than on health and education combined.
The organisation also said 21 Commonwealth countries spend at least 14 per cent of their government revenue on debt repayments.
AHF President, Michael Weinstein, described the global debt system as unjust and called on the UK to use its 2027 G20 Presidency to promote measures against predatory lending and barriers to international debt relief.
The foundation also criticised recent UK aid cuts to African countries, including Malawi and Mozambique, warning that reduced funding could further weaken healthcare and social protection systems.
AHF Executive Vice President, Dr. Penninah Iutung, said the debt crisis threatens economic stability, public health and national security in developing countries.
She called for systemic reforms, including stronger bargaining by developing countries, interest-free debt payment pauses during health and climate emergencies, and innovative financing for essential public services.
AHF said meaningful debt reform would enable developing countries to invest more in healthcare, education and sustainable economic growth.
Tags: Debt Crisis, Commonwealth, AHF
