One person must not have fewer opportunities than another on the ground of gender, disability, sexual orientation, ethnic background or religion. That is the theory – in practice though things often look very different.

In many countries, entire sections of the population are marginalised or disadvantaged. Opportunities to participate in economic and societal life are often very unequally spread. Gulfs that separate rich and poor, privileged and disadvantaged, haves and have-nots, tear societies apart and foment conflicts. At international level, they encourage migration. But the people in our global village are linked in many ways and at many levels. All of us are at the mercy of global financial markets, although they are geared primarily to the interests of the wealthy. Developing countries in particular are exposed to many international processes which they are unable to influence and on which they cannot impose their own strategies.

What must be done?

Equality of opportunity and equitable distribution are the bases for peace and cooperation – both within societies and at global level. The top priority is thus to reduce poverty. Poorer countries must be able to better represent their own interests at international level, and must receive greater support. Migration – a consequence of worldwide inequality – must be better ordered and made more safe. Internally, states must abolish discriminatory laws and practices and protect disadvantaged sections of their population, for instance with the help of social safety nets and a fair taxation system. Economies must grow sustainably and society as a whole must benefit from prosperity.

Facts and figures

• Income inequality increased by 11 per cent between 1990 and 2011 in developing countries.
• In developing countries the risk that children will die before their fifth birthday is five times higher for the poorest 20 per cent of the population than for the richest 20 per cent.
• Inequality is universal: poverty, racism and religious intolerance exists even in rich countries.