Susan Vance George

Susan Vance George, a pioneering American-French political and social scientist, activist, and prolific writer, passed away on February 14, 2026, at the age of 91. Throughout her distinguished career, George dedicated her life to exposing global inequalities and advocating for social justice, leaving an indelible mark on international discourse concerning poverty, debt, and corporate power. Her incisive critiques of global financial institutions and her unwavering commitment to the world's most vulnerable populations earned her widespread respect and admiration.

Born Susan Vance Akers on June 29, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, George developed an early interest in French language and culture. She pursued her higher education at Smith College, the Sorbonne, and the University of Paris, where she earned a PhD in Political Science. In 1956, she married Charles-Henry George and made France her permanent home, later acquiring dual citizenship in 1994. Her early activism included significant involvement in anti-war movements in Paris during the Vietnam era, which solidified her commitment to challenging established power structures.

George was a foundational figure in the establishment of the Transnational Institute (TNI) in Amsterdam in 1973, an organization she would later serve as president. Her seminal 1976 book, "How the Other Half Dies: The Real Reasons for World Hunger," became a cornerstone of critical development studies, arguing that world hunger stemmed from power imbalances rather than scarcity. This work, alongside numerous other books and essays, cemented her reputation as a fierce critic of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Washington Consensus, which she believed perpetuated underdevelopment.

Beyond her scholarly contributions, Susan George was a tireless organizer and public speaker, actively participating in movements for global social and economic justice. She served as the honorary president of ATTAC France, a prominent organization advocating for democratic control over financial markets. Her work consistently highlighted the detrimental effects of corporate influence and trade liberalization on developing nations, inspiring generations of activists and scholars to question and challenge the status quo.

Susan George's legacy is one of profound intellectual courage and relentless advocacy. She championed the belief that a more just and equitable world was not only possible but imperative, providing rigorous analysis and a moral compass for those striving for systemic change. Her passing marks the end of an era for global justice movements, but her ideas and spirit will continue to resonate, guiding future efforts to build a world where power and resources are distributed more fairly.