Global Priorities
Children play near Banteay Chhmar, one of the poorest areas in Cambodia.
According to the World Bank Development Indicators, in 2005, the wealthiest 20% of the world accounted for 76.6% of total private consumption. The poorest fifth just 1.5%.
| Spending in 2000 | $U.S. Billions |
|---|---|
|
Cosmetics in the United States Ice cream in Europe Perfumes in Europe and the United States Pet foods in Europe and the United States Business entertainment in Japan Cigarettes in Europe Alcoholic drinks in Europe Narcotics in the world Military spending in the world |
8 11 12 17 35 50 105 400 780 |
And compare that to what was estimated as additional costs to achieve universal access to basic social services in all developing countries:
| Spending in 2000 | $U.S. Billions |
|---|---|
|
Heritage Preservation in the Developing World Basic education for all Water and sanitation for all Reproductive health for all women Basic health and nutrition |
0.8* 6 9 12 13 *GHF Estimate
|
—-The State of Human Development, United Nations Human Development Report http://www.globalissues.org/issue/235/consumption-and-consumerism
