In spite of EU efforts to help the developing world in 2005 more than one billion people in the world are living in poverty. Therefore, the "I fight against poverty" campaign wants to raise awareness among youngsters of the importance of volunteerism and the EU policies for development, and it contains, among other initiatives, a musical contest.

The European Union is the main contributor to global development aid: its only contribution in 2008 accounted for 60% of world aid. Anyway, according to 2005 data, more than one billion people around the world living in poverty.

EU efforts are aligned with the Millennium Development Goals of the UN. One of them is to eradicate extreme poverty, defined by having to live on less than $ 1.25 a day. Others are universal primary education, reducing child mortality, environmental sustainability and the fight against AIDS, among others.

TheEU campaign "I fight against poverty" aims to sensitize young people to these difficulties. Its website urges young people to participate, for example looking for an NGO that needs assistance through the European Voluntary Service. It also explains EU development policy and projects on issues from food security to conflict prevention.

Budding composers or bands can also try their luck in the music against poverty contest. 15-30 year olds can submit a song about fighting poverty, and anyone can vote online for their favourite. The winner will get to record his or her song in a professional studio and perform in Stockholm during the "European development days 2009".

This annual event works to build a global coalition against poverty. Some 4 000 people from 125 countries will discuss the latest issues and initiatives. Organising speakers, events, network meetings and exhibitions is open to all participants, providing plenty of opportunities for sharing ideas and launching partnerships.