David Miliband

Act on Copenhagen

Today the Government has published the UK Low Carbon Transition Plan, which forms an economy-wide strategy to convert the UK into a permanent low carbon economy. It is one of the most systematic responses to climate change of any major developed economy and comes at a crucial time in the run up to the talks in Copenhagen in December.

It shows that the UK is willing and ready to play its part in the Copenhagen deal with real policies and real cuts in emissions. We're taking action now because our future economic prosperity and security depends on converting to low carbon living.

The G8 and Major Economies Forum last week produced a real breakthrough with a 2°C rise in temperature limit - meaning that developed and developing countries will have to demonstrate that their actions and commitments are consistent with this scientific framework. Developed countries must continue to show leadership and ambition over coming months - and will need a low carbon transition plan if they're to be taken seriously by the developing world in the run up to Copenhagen.

Posted at 17:03 15 July 2009 by David Miliband  |  Comments[14]

Indonesian Elections

The Indonesian elections on 8 July had 170 million registered voters - across over 900 islands and three time zones. Turnout was roughly 70% and, of votes cast, incumbent President Yudhoyono appears to have won 60% - 71m votes. If these figures were confirmed, this would place him ahead of President Obama (66.9m votes) as President with the largest number of direct votes in the world.

This is a remarkable achievement by President Yudhoyono, and I am especially impressed with the scale of democratic progress. An article in Time Magazine argues, Indonesia is fast becoming a political role-model.
Indonesia proves that vibrant democracy can quickly take local roots. And this election shows that democracy, whatever its form, is equally relevant everywhere - and can be successful in Muslim and Asian countries.

Posted at 14:01 15 July 2009 by David Miliband  |  Comments[0]

Geneva at 60

Geneva is not just a great city. It is also a cause because of the Geneva Conventions. It is now 60 years since their signature tried to "civilise" war by protecting civilians. I think they matter today.

Please play a part in how we can augment its impact at: Geneva at 60

Posted at 10:01 15 July 2009 by David Miliband  |  Comments[0]