Growth is enriching an elite and killing the planet. We need an economy based on human rights | Olivier De Schutter

Economic growth allows the few to grow ever-wealthier. Ending poverty and environmental catastrophe demands fresh thinking

Economic growth will bring prosperity to all. This is the mantra that guides the decision-making of the vast majority of politicians, economists and even human rights bodies.

Yet the reality - as detailed in a report to the United Nations Human Rights Council this month - shows that while poverty eradication has historically been promised through the trickling down" or redistribution" of wealth, economic growth largely gushes up" to a privileged few.