The European Union executive stressed the importance of EU states fulfilling their commitments to increase aid to impoverished nations, emphasizing that failing to meet U.N. goals would have dire consequences for developing countries and global stability. Despite some progress towards the Millennium Development Goals, millions of children still die from preventable diseases, many lack access to clean water, and millions of women are illiterate. The Commission warned that not achieving these goals would be catastrophic for developing countries, Europe, and global security. With seven years left to achieve these goals, the Commission urged increased political and public support. It called on EU states to uphold their promises to increase development aid to 0.56 percent of GNI by 2010 and 0.7 percent by 2015, citing this as crucial in addressing issues such as migration, security, and climate change. The European Union has asked all 27 member states to create financial plans that show yearly increases in order to meet aid goals. In 2007, the EU was the largest aid donor in the world, with over 46 billion euros committed, but this amount decreased by about 1.7 billion euros from the previous year. This decrease could have funded thousands of schools and hospitals. Aid and development Commissioner Louis Michel described this as a "serious failure". The Commission suggested more efficient aid practices, such as avoiding duplication of efforts, supporting developing countries in using biofuels to combat poverty, and taking steps to prevent brain drains in crucial sectors like health and education. The Commission stated that fundamental principles of aid effectiveness are not being followed, and proposed to introduce improvements on a state-by-state basis. It was proposed that 2 billion euros ($3.15 billion) be allocated by 2010 to the Aid for Trade programme in order to assist developing countries in taking advantage of export opportunities, particularly focusing on African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations. Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso emphasized the need for action in 2008 rather than mere words, stressing the importance of delivering on promises to maintain credibility. A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development revealed a decrease in development aid from major donors, largely due to the conclusion of significant debt relief packages. In 2000, 189 U.N. members established goals to eliminate poverty, promote human and social development, and protect the environment. In 2005, EU leaders set goals for 2015 including reducing extreme poverty by half, ensuring primary education for all children, and enhancing health standards. Aid to developing countries reached 0.38 percent of the EU's Gross National Income, slightly below the 0.39 percent target for 2006 which was met that year. The European Commission calculated Official Development Assistance at 93 euros per EU citizen, higher than the amounts in the United States and Japan.