History shows that quality public services are essential in building strong economies and inclusive societies. Yet existing services sometimes fail to meet community needs. Often privatisation is promoted as the only solution to failing services, and countries dependant on financial assistance through development loans and aid may be given little choice.

After 20 years of pro-privatisation policies, the world is neither a better nor a fairer place. The gap between rich and poor has widened and 54 countries are poorer than they were in 1990. There are many examples of privatisation failing, particularly in water and energy services. The World Bank acknowledges that it has sometimes been driven by “irrational exuberance” as to the potential benefits of privatisation.

PSI’s Quality Public Services Campaign is about a positive alternative. Unions around the world are campaigning to promote government investment in quality public services through adequate financing, improved accountability, better jobs and accessible, affordable and relevant services.

The campaign involves local, national and international action. Unions within countries are identifying their most important priorities and pursuing campaigns to win quality public services. This work is supported by PSI through our union development program and our Resource Bank which provides information and campaign experiences from unions around the world.

International work includes building alliances with others who share our objectives, and participating in global actions. We work with broad coalitions to change the pro-privatisation policies of the International Financial Institutions, the World Trade Organisation and meetings of rich nations such as the G8.

In 2005, there will be enhanced focus on the United Nations Millennium Development Goals as progress towards these important objectives is reviewed. The review in 2005 will show the need for dramatic policy changes if the goals are to be met. This provides a critical opportunity for our the message to be heard. PSI and Public World are developing a General Agreement on Public Services, for without governments and international organisations making a strong commitment to quality public services there is no chance of building a better, fairer world.