The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has renewed its call for comprehensive debt cancellation for developing nations, arguing that unsustainable debt burdens are exacerbating poverty and undermining global health progress. In a statement released on June 10, 2026, AHF urged G20 leaders to prioritize debt relief over creditor repayments, warning that current policies trap countries in a cycle of austerity and deprivation.
According to AHF, over 60 low-income countries are spending more on debt servicing than on health, education, or social protection. The organization points to data from the World Bank and IMF showing that total external debt for low- and middle-income countries reached a record $9.3 trillion in 2025. AHF argues that without immediate relief, these nations cannot adequately respond to pandemics, climate shocks, or food insecurity.
AHF President Michael Weinstein stated, 'Debt is a modern form of colonialism. It forces the poorest nations to sacrifice their people's health and future for the benefit of wealthy creditors.' The foundation is calling for a multilateral framework that includes debt cancellation, fair restructuring, and a ban on predatory lending practices.
Critics of debt cancellation, including some creditor nations and financial institutions, argue that it could undermine future lending and encourage fiscal irresponsibility. However, AHF and allied NGOs counter that the current system is already failing, with many countries facing default or repeated restructuring cycles that do not address root causes.
The call comes ahead of the G20 summit scheduled for later this month, where debt reform is expected to be a key agenda item. AHF is mobilizing supporters worldwide to pressure leaders to adopt a 'debt justice' approach that prioritizes human rights and sustainable development.
