The article presents original cross-country data analysis, based on research commissioned by the international NGO network, Global Campaign for Education. Rose was invited to present the findings in a keynote address at a UNESCO Working Group for Education for All, attended by high level education officials from donor agencies. Arguments put forward in the paper have contributed towards revisions made in the Fast-Track Initiative, for example with respect to criteria for the endorsement of countries on the Fast-Track Initiative. The paper is included in a special issue co-edited by Rose together with K. King (Edinburgh), and includes a substantial editorial by them critiquing international development targets.