How can the Church respond to unprecedented levels of inequality and poverty in the world today? This book by Christian Aid, was commissioned by the Church of England's Mission and Public Affairs Council, and offers an imporant contribution to the debate on trade justice issues.

Explaining clearly how the current international trading system is a significant factor in the continuation of global poverty, this book outlines what changes need to be made and how Christians can be at the forefront of the campaign to bring such changes about. It includes ideas for action at every level within the Church. 

The report will help to inform a key debate at the Church of England's General Synod meeting in York in July.

Congregations are encouraged to write to leading politicians, take part in joint action and attend campaign events. They are urged to support a Week of Action in April 2005 - as the UK prepares to host next year's G8 summit, and takes over the presidency of the European Union from July 2005 for six months - and to buy Fairtrade products and debate trade justice issues.

Writing in the preface, the Bishop of Chelmsford, the Rt Revd John Gladwin, who chairs Christian Aid's board, said: "Responding to God's call to work for justice in the world, the Church has a responsibility to be at the forefront of moves to transform the world, rid it of poverty and make it a more just and equitable place for all people.

"There are many ways in which the Church seeks to do this, including prayer, and raising money to fund development and relief work throughout the world. But one of the most important is in supporting the growing international campaign for trade justice."

The report examines the issues around world trade, including the role of the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation, and sets out a range of case studies showing the impact on the world's poorest people.

The report stresses: "The Churches are in a unique position to contribute to the trade justice campaign. They constitute one of the few remaining broadly community-based organisations in this country, with members meeting weekly in almost every city, town and village.

"Church-goers are known to be more politically engaged than most citizens, being more likely to vote in general elections, and more likely to communicate with their MPs. Churches are also respected for the thoughtful and yet impassioned contribution they make to national debate, particularly on development issues."

The full text of this book is available to download. Please click on 'Links' below to access this from the Church of England website.