Lending conditions should not burden poorer countries – Vice President Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang at democracy summit in Barcelona

The Vice President of Ghana, Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, has represented John Dramani Mahama at the Fourth Meeting of the “In Defence of Democracy” Summit held in Barcelona, Spain.

The summit brought together global leaders committed to safeguarding democratic values. The “In Defence of Democracy” initiative is an international platform established to confront growing threats such as extremism, polarisation, and disinformation. Since its inaugural meeting at the 2024 United Nations General Assembly, the initiative has engaged heads of government and international organisations to strengthen coordination in defending democracy.

Discussions at the Barcelona meeting focused on three main priorities: strengthening institutions and multilateralism, addressing disinformation and the impact of digital technologies, and tackling extremism and inequality.

During deliberations, participants emphasised the need to address structural inequalities, reform international legal frameworks to better protect women and other vulnerable groups, and strengthen governance, accountability, and oversight in the digital space.

In her address, the Vice President stated that defending democracy requires strengthening the systems that sustain it. She noted that many developing countries are advocating for reforms to the international development system and a reconfiguration of the global financial architecture.

She called for more equitable distribution of financial resources and fairer lending conditions that do not impose unsustainable interest rates on poorer nations. She also stressed the need for more inclusive trade systems that serve the interests of all countries.

The Vice President highlighted the establishment and operationalisation of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement as a significant step by Africa to integrate markets, boost intra-African trade, enhance competitiveness, reduce economic vulnerabilities, and create jobs.

She added that global progress must match these continental efforts through a more accessible and responsive international financial system that meets the needs of developing countries.

She concluded that democracy will be sustained by strong institutions, effective economies, and a shared commitment to fairness.