Bob Geldof denies rumors that he and Bono are putting together a Live-Aid II. The 1985 original event raised 60 million pounds with simultaneous concerts in Britain and the United States.
I think a Live Aid II that seeks simply to raise money to alleviate Third World debt seems like a poor idea. I would prefer a concert that seeks to raise consciousness about the issue of global poverty, and to spur pressure on corporations and governments to commit themselves to foreign aid. A Live Aid II that seeks to bring about a stronger commitment to the UN Millennium Development Goals would be a superb idea.
The 60 million pounds raised is a paltry figure, a fraction of a penny per poverty-stricken person. But reform of public and corporate policy might well lead to a substantial improvement in living standards worldwide.