In a statement issued on Tuesday ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda, AHF said many Commonwealth countries remain trapped in unsustainable debt despite the summit’s focus on prosperity through partnerships and investment.
The organisation noted that one in every three Commonwealth nations is already in debt distress, while 3.4 billion people worldwide live in countries that spend more on debt servicing than on health and education combined.
It added that 21 Commonwealth countries channel at least 14 per cent of their government revenue into debt repayments.
AHF President Michael Weinstein described the global debt architecture as unjust and rooted in colonial-era financial systems.
He called on the UK, ahead of its 2027 G20 Presidency, to champion legislation that curbs predatory lending and prevents private creditors from obstructing international debt relief initiatives.
The foundation also criticised the UK government’s recent cuts to aid funding for African countries, including Malawi and Mozambique, warning that the reductions would further weaken fragile healthcare and social protection systems.
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AHF Executive Vice President, Dr. Penninah Iutung, said the debt crisis now threatens economic stability, public health and national security across developing countries.
She urged nations in the Global South to unite in demanding systemic debt reforms, including stronger collective bargaining, automatic interest-free debt pauses during health and climate emergencies, and innovative financing mechanisms to support essential public services.
“Meaningful debt reform is critical to enabling developing countries to invest in healthcare, education and sustainable economic growth,” she opined.
