Poverty won't end until global corruption is eradicated. That was the view of Dr Tony Campolo as he addressed UK parliamentarians from both houses and parties in Portcullis House at the House of Commons on Wednesday.

Campolo, former spiritual advisor to US President Bill Clinton, highlighted the EXPOSED campaign, which is backed by Bible Society.

He said, 'I don't think we can end poverty without fighting corruption. The Bible calls us to do this. 'The Christian Church has been great at charity,' he added, 'but there's a difference between charity and justice. And unless we address the structural systems of the world, we won't change the situation of the poor.'

Dr Campolo was speaking at an event at Parliament hosted by Bible Society.

The EXPOSED campaign is encouraging people to sign a Global Call to End Corruption and will culminate with a week-long Vigil from 14 - 20 October with events around the world. The aim is to get a million signatures opposing corruption. These will be handed to the world's leaders at the G20 summit in November 2014. The campaign challenges individuals, businesses, financial institutions and governments to address the issue of corruption at every level.

Dr Campolo discussed global corruption, what effect it is having on the poor, what can be done about it and what the Bible calls us to do on issues of poverty and social justice in general, and corruption in particular. He said that currently, corruption is both 'inevitable' and often 'even desirable' but that Christians had to be at the forefront of calling for this to change.

'Getting rid of corruption is a very big part of establishing the kingdom of God here and now,' said Dr Campolo.

Chairman of Exposed, Dr Dion Forster, said, 'We are in a crisis point in the world. The economic system is fundamentally broken. We have all seen the devastating effects of that. The economic crisis gives us a chance to rebuild society in a different way. The Bible is very clear about that.'

Dr Campolo signed the petition that will go to international leaders next year.


Pic: Bible Society/Dan Lane (Tony Campolo at Westminster)