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The 0.7% ODA target: A norm in retreat

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  • Stephan Klingebiel
  • Andy Sumner

Abstract

The 0.7 per cent official development assistance/gross national income (ODA/GNI) target, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1970, is best understood as a partially successful norm that is now in active retreat. In this paper we discuss the history of the target using Finnemore and Sikkink's (1998) norm life cycle framework. We compare the 0.7 to analogous targets in defence, climate, education, health, and biodiversity. We argue that systematic underperformance is a structural feature of politically negotiated international input targets.

Suggested Citation

  • Stephan Klingebiel & Andy Sumner, 2026. "The 0.7% ODA target: A norm in retreat," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2026-104, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2026-104
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Michael Clemens & Todd Moss, 2005. "Ghost of 0.7%: Origins and Relevance of the International Aid Target," Development and Comp Systems 0509006, University Library of Munich, Germany.
    2. Finnemore, Martha & Sikkink, Kathryn, 1998. "International Norm Dynamics and Political Change," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 52(4), pages 887-917, October.
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