The Alternative G8
Activists at the Alternative G8
Credit: Indymedia Germany
While the G8 leaders met in Heiligendemm on Germany’s Baltic coast, End Water Poverty campaigners were in Rostock, attending the Alternative G8 summit.
And we weren’t alone. Thousands of participants, activists and protesters descended on the picturesque seaside town of Rostock to ensure that issues such as international development, social justice and climate change remain in the realm of public debate.
The media chose to report on activities such as the blockades and rallies, but there were just as many people engaged in meaningful debate inspired by a full programme of workshops, panel presentations and discussions.
WaterAid Campaigns Officer Gerard Allt said,
“The Alternative G8 is really important as it provides a platform for NGOs and campaigners to be involved in public debate about development issues and offers an opportunity to encourage the G8 to honour their promises. Moreover, it offers End Water Poverty campaigners the opportunity to ensure that the global crisis in sanitation and water is represented internationally.”
The G8 countries represent only 13% of the world’s population. Their summit is a closed event. As an alternative, the events at Rostock were open to all. This was a positive, inspiring experience for all involved, and a useful forum for helping End Water Poverty get its message across to other NGOs.