Winne van Woerden, a policy expert at Oxfam Novib, is advocating for a fundamental shift in the economic system to address growing inequality and environmental concerns. She argues that the current system disproportionately benefits the wealthy while exceeding the planet’s limits.

Van Woerden emphasizes that the promise of success within the current economic system applies only to a small group, leaving many feeling abandoned and frustrated. She contends that progressive movements must counter the radical right’s exploitation of this frustration by offering an alternative narrative.

Oxfam Novib aims to tackle the roots of inequality and poverty by promoting concrete solutions and highlighting the connection between economic activities in developed countries and their effects in developing nations. Van Woerden’s work focuses on the unequal distribution of wealth, particularly in countries like the Netherlands.

She believes that breaking away from the myth that economic growth equates to progress is essential. Van Woerden points to Oxfam’s research showing that two-thirds of economic growth since 2020 has benefited the richest 1 percent, while most people do not experience the benefits.

Van Woerden challenges the notion of “green growth,” arguing that it relies on wishful thinking and lacks scientific evidence. She states that growth, green or not, leads to increased energy and raw material demands, contributing to biodiversity loss and climate disruption.

She calls for a different approach to the economic system, one that prioritizes planetary limits and basic human needs. Van Woerden cites research indicating that meeting the basic needs of the global population would require only 30 percent of current energy and raw material usage.

She acknowledges the aspiration for material wealth but emphasizes the importance of exposing the power structures and interests driving economic growth, which ultimately benefit the wealthiest 1 percent.

She counters the argument that growth is necessary to fund public services by suggesting that it is a weak argument rooted in “within system” thinking. Van Woerden highlights the rise of cooperatives and social enterprises as examples of movements towards greater democracy in the economic sphere.

Van Woerden expresses concern over recent reversals in climate plans and cuts to development cooperation, viewing them as incentives to amplify voices for change. She sees the radical right’s rise as a result of dissatisfaction with the economic system and emphasizes the need for progressive movements to offer alternative narratives.

Despite facing challenging times, Van Woerden remains hopeful, drawing inspiration from past unforeseen positive changes and embracing an active role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.