The number of Members of the European Parliament fighting to end extreme poverty surpasses the largest political group in the Parliament

Brussels – Almost a third of MEPs have backed a youth-led campaign and pledged to commit, act and change the world to make sure no one is left behind. If they were to form a group, the 191 MEPs would surpass the EPP, currently the largest political group with 182 MEPs. 

28 young poverty activists representing 10 nationalities were in Brussels to ask MEPs to sing a pledge to ensure the EU keeps their promises to end extreme poverty and achieve the Sustainable development goals by 2030. The volunteers have the backing of European citizens: 86% of Europeans believe is important to help people in developing countries.

Nina, 25 , affirmed: “MEPs know that actions speak louder than words. Their commitment to end extreme poverty needs to be followed through with concrete action to make sure the EU lives up to its promises”

Emily Wigens, EU Director at ONE, said: “EU leaders have a once in a lifetime chance to choose a future free from extreme poverty. The EU is a champion in international development, and Youth Ambassadors are doing their part to make sure it stays that way. EU leaders need to keep leading the fight to end extreme poverty starting by supporting an ambitious long-term budget”

ENDS

About ONE Vote

191 MEPs pledged their support to end extreme poverty by 2030 by backing the ONE Vote 2019 campaign. This campaign led by ONE youth activists calls on EU leaders to take action and deliver a world where no one is left behind – at home or abroad. Supporters of the campaign have signed a pledge committing to use their mandate to advance the fight against extreme poverty.