Wednesday 9 July 2008

As G8 leaders conclude their discussions in Japan, Save the Children has called on the UN to bring together "leaders who want to make a difference" at a summit in September to agree critical plans for child survival and education.

"The outcome of the G8 has shown once again that some leaders want to do something about the problems of the poorest countries, and some do not", said Adrian Lovett, Save the Children Director of Campaigns, in Hokkaido.

"Meanwhile, too many key players are left outside the room. Leaders of developing countries should be held accountable too. In September, the UN should bring together leaders who want to make a difference, for a really practical, can-do discussion that agrees plans to save children's lives and get millions more children into school."

"We also think that while the current food crisis is pushing millions of families to the edge of survival, it is completely unacceptable for these summits to lavish hospitality on their guests. The next major global meeting should take the Chateau Grillet and cavier off the menu. World leaders need to fulfil their promises before they fill their stomachs."

More information

• G8 Summit Diary 9 July 2008: How woolly hats will change the world
• G8 Summit Diary 8 July 2008: Discussions, dancing, fireworks and Japanese tea
• G8 Summit Diary 7 July 2008: The World Bank president stole my seat (sort of)   
• Read how we're responding to emergencies caused by climate change
• Donate now to our Ethiopia Food Crisis Emergency Appeal and save a child's life today