Government debt is often portrayed as a necessary tool for development, but behind the numbers lies a system rigged against low- and middle-income countries. Sovereign debt—when borrowed under unfair terms—becomes a tool of oppression, limiting the ability of countries to invest in healthcare, education, and essential services. The global debt system disproportionately impacts the Global South, where countries are forced to borrow at exorbitant interest rates, deepening inequality and poverty. This debt trap, driven by historical power imbalances, private creditors, and outdated global financial rules, is leaving millions without the resources needed to live with dignity.
Our new video, an introduction to the Decoding Debt Injustice guide, authored by CESR and Debt Justice, sheds light on the often hidden forces that perpetuate this global crisis. By connecting debt to human rights, it becomes clear that addressing this issue is not just about economic reform—it’s about justice.