November 21, 2018
By Edward Lewis

Students attending the fifth Annual Rotary Student Peace Debate today voted overwhelmingly to increase Jersey’s overseas aid budget. After a lively debate, covering a wide range of topics including the efficacy of aid and Jersey’s place in the world, 69% of students voted in favour of increasing Jersey’s overseas aid budget, whilst 21% voted for the budget to remain the same and only 10% voted for it to be reduced.

The Debate, which was attended by students from seven local secondary schools, was chaired by the Chief Minister, Senator John Le Fondré, with the keynote speech being delivered by the Minister for International Development, Carolyn Labey. After the debate, Minister Carolyn Labey stated:

“Jersey’s compassion and generosity is a key part of our island identity. It has been wonderful today to hear Jersey’s youth engage in, and vote in support of, Jersey’s international aid contributions. It is highly reassuring to know that the Island’s youth – tomorrow’s leaders – not only acknowledge the important role development plays, but that they also wish to do more.”

Jersey currently allocates just under £10.4 million every year to overseas aid. At 0.25% of Jersey’s GDP, this is significantly below the OECD average and short of the 0.7% target agreed at the United Nations and in place since 1970.

For Jersey residents interested in volunteering overseas, or a career in international development, Jersey Overseas Aid offers individuals the chance to apply for a General Bursary, Professional Bursary or Internship. Further information is available at www.joa.je