Archived Articles on General Analysis on International Aid

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999

2005

Addicted to Aid in Ethiopia (November 28, 2005)

This article takes on Ethiopia's multiple problems that hinder the world's poorest country from achieving self-sufficiency. Huge military expenses, a missing land reform and 150 religious holidays a year fail to provide the necessary political framework. Although essential to keep people alive, food aid from rich countries has destroyed the local market prices. Nowadays, Ethiopians follow the aid convoys "the way they once followed rain clouds." (Der Spiegel)

Let's Put on Some Institutional Muscle (October 19, 2005)

The international response to natural disasters such as the South Asian Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina in the US and the earthquake in Pakistan was neither prompt nor coordinated enough. Britain's Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown and Secretary of State for International Development Hilary Benn point out the dire need for better funding for UN agencies. Countries should increase their donations to the UN's Central Emergency Revolving Fund and the UN Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Additionally, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank should offer emergency assistance to disaster-struck countries. (International Herald Tribune)

Foreign Aid Hike Too Little, Too Late for MDGs (October 14, 2005)

According to the UN report "World Economic and Social Survey 2005," if rich countries keep their promises, Official Development Assistance will increase to $130 billion by 2010. Many NGOs say that these additional funds will come too late, and poor countries will not reach the Millennium Development Goals. However, this article stresses that focusing the debate only on dollar amounts, distracts from the "systemic" problems in the global economy. (Inter Press Service)

Relief Charities Say Needs Are Massive but Donations Few Following South Asia Earthquake (October 12, 2005)

Non-profit organizations are concerned that "donor fatigue" may limit relief resources for the South Asian earthquake. Indeed, the earthquake happened in the same year as the tsunami and hurricane Katrina, to which donors responded generously. A day and a half after the earthquake, donations were about 10 percent of what they were for the tsunami in the same period. (Chronicle of Philanthropy)

Is Aid Working for the Poor? (September 19, 2005)

In many cases, international aid has not been successful in fighting poverty and promoting development mainly because projects were "not always aligned with a country's priorities." As this article insists, a good aid strategy should promote more accountability and also emphasize community participation. "Aid should be channeled directly to people rather than governments." (One World)

Time to Stop Fooling Ourselves about Foreign Aid (September 12, 2005)

This piece from the conservative Cato Institute, using badly designed projects as examples, argues that aid cannot promote development. The author takes a rather cynical view of people, arguing that humanitarian aid, "at least from a statistical standpoint", exacerbates poverty by improving poor people's longevity. He finds that the ineffectiveness of aid stems from the dependency it creates, the bureaucratic growth of the "aid industry" as well as faulty institutions in poor countries. Despite acknowledging aid's humanitarian value, the author appeals to governments to reject the UN's call for doubling aid. (Cato Institute)

A Possible Contribution Based on Airline Tickets as a New Source of Financing Development (September 1, 2005)

This working paper from the European Commission analyzes two different approaches to aviation taxes to finance development. Depending on whether governments make the tax mandatory or voluntary for passengers, the OECD Development Aid Committee could regard the revenues as official development assistance (ODA), allowing governments to escape responsibility to direct a larger part of national income to ODA. The report also stresses the importance of coordination among European members to express solidarity with developing countries.

Diversity in Donorship: The Changing Landscape of Official Humanitarian Aid (September 2005)

This Humanitarian Policy Group report notes the growing diversity of countries giving humanitarian assistance. The author rebukes countries that prioritize aid to certain countries for political and ideological reasons. To counter this criticism, donor countries could coordinate efforts to make their intentions and allocations clear to the public so that humanitarian aid retains its legitimacy.

Commitment to Development Index (August 29, 2005)

Fighting poverty requires more than just giving money. This report by the Center for Global Development analyzes the development financing pledges of the 21 richest countries, studying their policies on trade, investment, aid, and the environment. Not surprisingly, the US ranks among the countries that give the least amount of aid, but ranks high in the category of trade. Denmark and Norway top the list of nations contributing the most aid.

Japan to Hike Foreign Aid in Image Makeover (August 11, 2005)

In an attempt to polish its public image, Japan is taking steps to boost its development assistance budget that has been shrinking for the past four years. Japan's move comes as the government seeks support from African countries for its bid to gain a permanent seat in the UN Security Council. (Inter Press Service)

Rich Countries' Years of Neglect Have Led to West Africa Food Crisis (August 9, 2005)

Rich countries prefer to give aid "on the basis of news headlines and political priorities instead of need," and West Africans are paying the price, contends this Oxfam International press release. While Iraq receives on average $91 per person in aid per year, Niger, a much poorer country, gets just $12 per person. As a result, African nations are extremely vulnerable to hunger crises.

US Food Aid: Time to Get it Right (July 27, 2005)

This Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy research report provides a critical assessment of current food aid programs, particularly those of the US. According to the report, the US practice of providing commodities instead of cash aid is inefficient, expensive and slow, and benefits primarily US shipping and agribusiness companies as well as NGOs that act as food brokers to fund their development work.

Italy Accuses Countries on Council Seats (July 26, 2005)

In a statement to the General Assembly, Italian Ambassador Marcello Spatafora accused the G-4 countries of blackmailing countries into supporting their bid for Security Council permanent seats by leveraging aid money. Expressing outrage at the "improper and unethical behavior," Spatafora asked the GA to start a formal investigation on the matter. This "rare public attack by one European Union member against another" serves as an indicator of rising tensions and rising stakes over Council reform debates. (Associated Press)

The International Finance Facility: Development on Credit? (July 21, 2005)

In January 2003, the British government proposed establishing an International Finance Facility (IFF) that would raise new funds for development by issuing bonds on international capital markets. In this Global Policy Forum briefing paper, Jens Martens argues that the proposed IFF could actually produce more harm than good if the facility does not receive additional funding through global taxes or increased development budgets. Furthermore, governments and NGOs from poor countries should be able to participate in decision-making at the IFF, and the facility should work towards reducing conditions attached to development assistance.

"Aid Promoting Big Business" (July 15, 2005)

Governments and individuals around the world responded to the 2004 Asian tsunami disaster with unprecedented generosity, pledging about US$13 billion in aid for the victims. But the pace of rebuilding has been slow, and local NGOs are now criticizing the rehabilitation efforts for being poorly targeted and favoring "big business" and the tourism industry at the expense of local communities. (Inter Press Service)

G8 Communique: More and Better Aid? (July 13, 2005)

This Eurodad briefing paper provides a critical analysis of the G8 Gleneagles Summit outcome document. Eurodad commends the communiqué for addressing the need for more and better development assistance, but criticizes its vague language. The document contains only sketchy information on how much aid rich countries will make available, and what conditions poor countries will have to meet to receive any new aid. It also lacks means of enforcement to make rich countries accountable for their promises.

Japan Ups Aid by $10bn (July 8, 2005)

At the Group of Eight summit in Gleneagles, Japan announced that it would sizably increase its foreign aid budget by $10 billion over a five year period. Japan's current official development assistance rate lies at 0.19% of gross national income, below the UN's 0.7% target for member states. The decision to increase aid is likely a move to "make the country's presence felt as it seeks to win a permanent seat on the UN Security Council," says Finance24.

A Game of Double Bluff (May 31, 2005)

The European Union's announcement in May that it would double foreign aid was met with cheers from non-profits and the UN alike. This article examines the real forces behind international aid, and what this increase actually means-with no change in the terms of trade between rich and poor, perhaps it's nothing to shout about after all. (Guardian)

Real Aid: An Agenda for Making Aid Work (May 27, 2005)

The world's richest nations greatly exaggerate their aid to poor countries, according to a report released by ActionAid International. The report states that two-thirds of the money donated by developed countries is "phantom aid"-it is not genuinely available for poverty reduction. Usually, wealthy countries divert Phantom Aid for other purposes within bureaucratic aid systems, such as excess administration costs, double-counting aid as debt relief, tying aid to certain goods from the donor country, and failing to fulfill aid pledges.

UN Official Sees Language Bias Skewing Aid to Africa (May 26, 2005)

UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs Jan Egeland claims that wealthy donor countries show favoritism, based on language, on who gets what in international aid. He finds that donor countries give English-speaking countries in Africa preferential treatment over French- and Portuguese-speaking countries. Consequently, donor countries "shut their eyes" to continuing crises in Northern Uganda, Mali, and Niger, "preferring to focus on high profile crises that are guaranteed public and media attention.'' (Inter Press Service)

Missing the Mark (April 17, 2005)

This Global Campaign for Education research report addresses rich countries' contributions to universal primary education, issuing "school report cards" to political leaders on the quantity and quality of education aid they provide to poor countries. Despite some improvements, most rich countries still fail to deliver, and the report places five of the powerful G7 countries in the bottom half of the class.

EU Proposes More Aid (April 13, 2005)

The European Union has announced a series of proposals to increase EU spending and quality of development assistance. According to the new plan, the 15 old EU member states would increase their aid spending to 0.51 percent of gross national income by 2010, and to 0.7 percent by 2015. The 10 new member countries should reach an interim target of 0.17 percent by 2010. Development NGOs called the new proposals a "step in the right direction," but said that the level of ambition is not high enough. (Inter Press Service)

More Aid Still Short of Goal (April 11, 2005)

Official development assistance from member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) rose to a record level of US$78.6 billion in 2004. While most countries reported increases in assistance, only five - Denmark, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden - reached the 0.7 percent target of gross national income that the UN set in 1970. (Inter Press Service)

New Resources for Development (March 2005)

Five years after the Millennium Declaration, it is clear that most countries will not be able to achieve the Millennium Development Goals without an aggressive new approach. This report from the International Cooperation for Development and Solidarity (CIDSE) recommends that developed countries promote a more equal distribution of global wealth through the cancellation of unsustainable debt, the dedication of a minimum of 0.7% GDP in aid, and the implementation of global taxes such as a currency transactions tax and an aviation fuel tax.

US "Could End World Poverty by 2025" (March 7, 2005)

Jeffrey Sachs, the director of the United Nations Millennium Project, argues in his forthcoming book that "our generation [...] can choose to end extreme poverty by the year 2025." However, reaching this goal requires that rich countries, especially the US, significantly increase the amount of foreign aid. "The richest and most powerful country [...] is barely participating in global efforts to end poverty and protect the environment, thus undermining its own security," Sachs says. (Guardian)

Millstone or Milestone? (February 28, 2005)

Rich countries increasingly agree on the need to boost foreign aid, but will it be enough to eradicate poverty? According to this joint report from Oxfam and ActionAid, the answer is no, unless donors also show commitment to reform the aid system. Currently, just one fifth of aid funds actually goes to the very poorest countries, and only a half to basic services such as education and health care where aid could make a decisive difference in ending poverty.

UN: Governments Must Provide More Tsunami Aid (February 8, 2005)

The United Nations urges governments to live up to their pledges to help the Asian tsunami victims. Thus far, little more than a third of the promised $977 million has reached the world body. The organization also asks donors to convert their pledges into hard cash instead of sending material aid, such as food, clothing and building materials. (Associated Press)

Smoke and Mirrors: Deficiencies in Disaster Funding (February 3, 2005)

This article comments on international disaster relief trends such as government failure to pay promised amounts and a lack of attention to long term recovery. The authors suggest that donor governments should pay mandatory assessments to UN relief agencies so that these agencies do not have to wait for voluntary contributions. Furthermore, relief efforts should include precautions to lessen the probability of a future disaster of equal magnitude to the 2004 tsunami. (British Medical Journal)

Aid That Doesn't Deliver (February 1, 2005)

The US government has pledged $350 million to help the Asian tsunami victims. But more than 70 % of it will probably stay in the US, because the government requires aid distributors to purchase most relief materials and services from US companies and agencies. According to Foreign Policy in Focus, this kind of "corporate welfare" undermines the humanitarian purpose and the overall effectiveness of assistance.

UN Backs Call to Accredit Aid Agencies (January 27, 2005)

In a follow-up report on the December 2004 tsunami relief efforts, Oxfam called for an accreditation system between national governments and the UN to ensure that aid agencies appropriately approach the tasks at hand. The report also urged NGOs to consult more with local communities in planning relief. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, which would spearhead such a system, praised the outpouring of relief for the tsunami and welcomed the suggestions for better organization. (Guardian)

Bush Falls Behind on Promises for Antipoverty, AIDS Funding (January 27, 2005)

During his first term as US President, George W. Bush promised to boost funding to combat global poverty and HIV/AIDS, saying he carried "this commitment in his soul." Now, three years later, the aid has fallen billions of dollars short of what Bush originally pledged. (Wall Street Journal)

Way Exists to Slash Poverty, But Is There the Will? (January 17, 2005)

Commenting on the UN Millennium Project report, this article asks if governments will show enough political commitment to meet the Millennium Development Goals. It has been 35 years since the General Assembly first urged countries to spend of 0.7% of their gross national product on international aid. So far, only five countries have met that target. (Inter Press Service)

For Honduras and Iran, World's Aid Evaporated (January 11, 2005)

Shortly after Iran's 2004 earthquake and the devastating effects of Hurricane Mitch in Honduras, governments and aid agencies poured out sympathy and support, promising not only to "build back better," but assuring long term aid. In spite of noble pledges, the aid never reached affected areas, and the long-term pledges ended with money withdrawal after reduced media attention. (New York Times)

US Isn't "Stingy," It's Strategic (January 7, 2005)

The US leads global economic aid in terms of amount but falls dead last in terms of percentage of national income. This International Relations Center article says the reason is the growing strategic link between aid and the "war on terrorism," as seen by economic aid to countries such as Iraq, Afghanistan, Poland (part of the coalition in Iraq) and Indonesia (a Muslim ally). But recipients be warned, says the author: US pledges likely end in broken promises.

No New Funds Needed for Relief, Bush Aides Say (January 4, 2005)

The US has increased its initial pledge for the tsunami disaster from $35 million to $350 million, but the US Congress will not approve further emergency funds to expand the annual aid budget. The Bush administration, which remains firm on following through with national tax cuts, will move aid away from other famine and poverty stricken countries. (New York Times)

UN, Relief Groups Fear Aid Falling Behind Pledges (January 3, 2005)

After learning from past experiences, both the United Nations and relief groups express skepticism about whether donor countries and institutions will follow through on their pledges of $2.5 billion to tsunami disaster relief operations. Another aspect of concern is donor nations' short attention spans on pledges. Aside from emergency aid, governments and development institutions need to focus on long-term goals and follow their promises of directing 0.7% of their gross domestic product to official development assistance. (Inter Press Service)

Food Aid in the Context of International and Domestic Markets and the Doha Round (2005)

This publication by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) provides broad information about food aid. By looking at the diverse forms in which such aid is provided, FAO demonstrates that most food aid remains tied to donor countries' interests. The report encourages organizations and governments to monitor and evaluate carefully food aid's distorting effects in recipient countries.

2004

Concern at Plans to Alter OECD Aid Terms (December 15, 2004)

Three member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development propose that the organization redefine peacekeeping operations and training of foreign armies as development aid. Non governmental organizations raise concerns that the already all-time low official development assistance will decrease further, as countries "artificially boost their aid budgets" by allocating money for military spending. (Guardian)

45 Million Children to Die in Next Decade Due to Rich Countries' Miserliness (December 6, 2004)

Oxfam International warns that unless rich countries comply with their pledges of official development assistance (ODA), global poverty and hunger will increase dramatically and therefore render the fulfillment of the Millennium Development Goals impossible. The organization criticizes rich countries, not only for giving less and less aid, but also for benefiting from ODA by tying aid money to self-serving requirements. (Common Dreams)

As Crises Mount, Global Aid Groups Tap Islamic Money (December 3, 2004)

While 50 percent of the World Food Programme's funds go to Islamic countries, the organization's funding mainly comes from Western donors. This Wall Street Journal piece argues that the post-9/11 political environment has brought about an opinion shift in Islamic countries towards a more positive view of international aid organizations. The article cites increased scrutiny on donations to Islamic charities and Islamic governments' will to improve their image in the West as reasons for this change.

Spend $150 Billion Per Year to Cure World Poverty (November 7, 2004)

Jeffery Sachs, economist and Special Adviser to UN Secretary General on the Millennium Development Goals, advocates increased official development assistance and African debt cancellation. While donors and governments question whether aid actually works, Sachs argues that rich countries need to "push" poor countries out of poverty by significantly increasing aid money. This New York Times piece portrays Sachs as a "preacher" of the "push theory" in international aid and a convert from "shock therapy theory," used in transitions to the market economy in order to foster development.

Red Cross Criticizes Aid Agencies' Methods (October 28, 2004)

The 2004 World Disasters Report criticizes governments and aid agencies for failing to listen to people on the "front line." Aid agencies need to consider local human resources and "help people to help themselves." The report states that aid too often fuels "disaster victim cliché" and portrays affected people as powerless. (Associated Press)

Exploitation on Tap: Why Is Britain Using Aid Money to Persuade South Africa to Privatize its Public Services? (October 19, 2004)

This article explores how British companies with the support of Britain's Department for International Development (DfID), push for water privatization in South Africa's poorest urban areas. The author criticizes Britain's export of water privatization models and accuses the DfID for breaking the law by linking aid money to specific British business interests. (Guardian)

Bush Administration Suspends Aid to Nations that Refuse to Shield Americans from War-Crimes Court (October 17, 2004)

The Bush Administration has been arm-twisting countries into signing bilateral agreements, which protect US citizens from International Criminal Court prosecution, by suspending foreign aid to those countries that do not cooperate. Several nations complain that such tactics set two standards of justice-one for "the bully" and one for the rest of the world. The author says withholding aid to certain countries that help fight the "wars on drugs and terrorism" harms the US as well. (Newsday)

Mirages of International Aid (September 2004)

This article looks at modern foreign aid and argues that this undemocratic and paradoxical "industry" has "become a problem posing as a solution." In search of a better aid strategy, the author suggests implementing "solidarity transfers" similar to those in the European Union as a means to maore fair and democratic public redistribution of aid. (Le Monde diplomatique)

The UN to the Rescue (August 11, 2004)

The effects of Bangladesh's monsoons will be devastating because of the country's weak physical infrastructure and poor healthcare systems. For this reason, the UN presence and assistance is critical for the survival of thousands of people. (Boston Globe)

Reinventing US Foreign Aid at Millennium Challenge Corp. (August 10, 2004)

The Millennium Challenge Corp. is a Bush administration initiative aimed at making foreign aid more "effective" by evaluating and rewarding recipients. Through the Millennium Challenge Corp. the administration hopes to create "a sense of competition" among recipient countries so that they "improve their performance." The program means that those who do not comply with US policies can't get aid money. (Washington Post)

Counting Chickens When They Hatch: The Short Term Effect of Aid on Growth (July 2004)

This study reveals a strong correlation between short-impact aid and growth and argues that the relationship does not depend significantly on the presence of "strong institutions." These findings are crucial considering that the current aid policy debate increasingly focuses on thwarting aid to countries that don't fulfill donors' expectancies of creating "strong democratic and market institutions". (Center for Global Development)

Aid to "Poorly Performing" Countries: A Critical Review of Debates and Issues (July 2004)

Donors increasingly link international aid to the analysis of "poor" or "good" country performance. This paper stresses that such concepts are flawed. "Poor performance" per se is not the problem, but the effect of weak national institutions combined with the inadequacy of donors to address problems integrally. (Overseas Development Institute)

Early Tests for US in Its Global Fight on AIDS (July, 14, 2004)

The Bush administration has championed the fight against AIDS as one of its primary humanitarian endeavors. However, the methods it enlists, including non-generic drug treatment and abstinence-based prevention programs, are an inefficient way to address the epidemic. These strategies are not prioritized by other healthcare groups, who had hoped for multilateral cooperation in fighting the epidemic. As a result the US efforts are seen as another unilateral exertion of values and power. (New York Times)

Using ICT to Improve Rural Education in Mongolia (July 14, 2004)

Mongolian education tends to be "confined to wealthy urban areas," thereby failing to reach the rural poor. To address this, the Japan Fund for Information and Technology is beginning a computer-based program that will bring educational opportunities to rural areas. The fund hopes that such a program will bring new skills and economic opportunities to these communities. (Asian Development Bank)

Development: Tied Aid Strangling Nations, Says UN (July 6, 2004)

Most donor countries give foreign aid conditionally, with stipulations guaranteeing that recipient governments will spend it on the donor's products or services. By minimizing competition and ability to purchase local or discounted material, this "tied aid"-- which accounts for 80% of US foreign aid and over 60% of Canadian aid--greatly diminishes recipients' autonomy and raises the costs of development projects. (Inter Press Service)

Third Decade of Regime-Change Aid: Washington Tightens Economic Noose and Increases Support to Groups Planning Post-Castro Transition (June 25, 2004)

The US has stepped up its 20 year old "political aid and propaganda campaign to unseat Castro." The new international aid measures, which include a council to promote private business, "democracy promoting programs," and tighter travel and currency restrictions are intended to stimulate political transition and move Cuba into capitalism. (Interhemispheric Resource Center)

British Aid Hampering Poverty Reduction (June 24, 2004)

England is one of the "leading bilateral donors promoting direct budget support straight to governments with limited capacity." Though the British Development Department feels that this aid strengthens recipient governments and government programs, NGOs argue that it hinders their work and is ill appropriated, thereby causing more harm than benefit. (OneWorld)

The Politics of Poverty: Aid in the New Cold War (May 5, 2004)

The rhetoric of "with or against us," spread by the ongoing global "war on terror," is used as a tool by the world's richest countries whose polarizing logic is penetrating even the field of international aid. This Christian Aid report examines how donor countries base policies on strategic security interests, returning to the trends of the Cold War. (Christian Aid)

Namibia: 'Not One Cent' of Aid (May 4, 2004)

More than 600,000 women and children in Namibia face a deadly combination of severe poverty and food deficits, a worsening AIDS epidemic and erratic weather. The failure of donor governments to "come forward with any money" worsens this situation, which is ultimately crippling Namibia's social system. (News 24)

"EU Failing to Fight Poverty" (April 28, 2004)

Aid agencies argue that the European Union (EU) must redouble its anti-poverty commitments to meet the Millennium Development Goals. Hans Zomer from the Irish national network of development charities criticizes the EU for spending just 0.35 percent of its GNP in 2003 on overseas aid, while 600 million children live in poverty. (Inter Press Service)

Britain Accused of Tying Strings to Foreign Aid (February 28, 2004)

International aid from Britain is supplied to poor countries on the proviso that recipient governments privatize their services such as water and healthcare. A new report from "War on Want" argues that multinationals' profit-drive, repeatedly results in their failure to deliver good quality services to the world's poor. (Guardian)

US Anti-Abortion Policies Take Heavy Toll (January 28, 2004)

The 'global gag rule,' reinstated by Bush in 2001, prohibits USAID from giving funds to organizations that perform abortions, educate patients on abortion or advocate to change abortion laws in their country. Some Kenyan family planning organizations have already closed due to these funding cuts, exacerbating the already high maternal mortality rate in this area. (Women's e-News)

US to Begin New Approach on Foreign Aid (January 3, 2004)

In 2004, the US government will launch the Millennium Challenge Account. In this new foreign aid program, the US will grant funds only to "just rulers" in governments that welcome foreign investors. Countries like Bolivia, where a popular uprising forced out pro-US President Lozada, may have disqualified themselves. (Associated Press)

Better than Foreign Aid (January 2, 2004)

Some countries in Latin America receive more money from remittances sent by relatives living in North America than from foreign aid. The Washington Post dubiously claims that remittances constitute a "fully functioning system of wealth redistribution," and that they offer the "most powerful argument" against involving governments in a "new hemispheric social contract."

2003

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999

Chinese Premier Urges Greater Understanding of Africa (December 15, 2003)
China stepped up its efforts to give Africa an alternative to Western aid dominance, offering its assistance "with the deepest sincerity and without any political conditions." China also urged rich countries to fulfill their "obligation and responsibility" to poor countries by opening up their markets and giving more aid and debt relief. (Integrated Regional Information Networks)

USAID Forges a New Model for Development Assistance (December 9, 2003)
The US shaped a new model for development assistance, explains the director of the US Global Development Alliance (GDA). She defends her government's intent to include corporate entities that want to "be part of the development process," arguing that companies' investments provide the greatest part of financial flows toward poor countries. (allAfrica)

Rich Countries Languish at Bottom of Class on Education Funding (November 18, 2003)
In 2000, world leaders promised to provide the funds to allow every child to go to school. Global Campaign on Education points out that 22 rich countries fail to live up to their promises. 100 million children worldwide have no access to education, and 150 million children cannot finish their primary education.

Arms Race Leaves Medicine behind (November 12, 2003)
Arms control advocates argue that "all external assistance" to India and Pakistan "frees resources for arms spending." Both countries divert huge portions of their budgets to their military buildup. But in terms of human development, both countries rank among the poorest third, as hardly any government money flows into social services such as education and health care programs. (Los Angeles Times)

Rich Nations Fail Aid Pledge to Poor (November 7, 2003)
In March 2002, more than 50 political leaders from rich countries solemnly pledged to increase their development assistance. Yet, their rhetoric does not stand up to the facts. Compared to a $800-billion military budget worldwide and $200 billion in net financial transfers from Southern to Northern countries, the 2002 increase of aid to $57 billion looks absurd. (Inter Press Service)

US Will Deny Aid to Countries that Refuse Court Immunity Deals (November 4, 2003)
The US strategy of denying aid to countries that refuse to guarantee US citizens exemption from prosecution through the ICC has been "successful": already 70 countries signed exemption agreements with the US for fear of aid cuts. (Independent)

*Aid or Trade? (October 3, 2003)
With the collapse of the Cancun trade agreement, free trade in agriculture will not arrive anytime soon, nor will it end the woes of the global South. In this piece, Michael Renner argues that rich countries should increase their long-promised development aid, while also dismantling agricultural tariffs and subsidies. Cancun was not a calamity, but alternatives are urgently needed.

Japan Pledges $1 Billion in African Aid (September 29, 2003)
Japan seeks a more prominent role in global diplomacy. The country pledged $1 billion in aid for education and health care in Africa, resuming the role of Africa's biggest international donor. (Associated Press)

Japan to Reverse Decline in Development Aid (September 25, 2003)
Japan, once the world's biggest donor of official development assistance (ODA), began cutting its ODA budget in 1997. Increasingly concerned about the political and economic stability in Central and East Asia, Japan announced the reversal of this six-year trend and the resumption of generous development aid. (Asia Times)

UN Official Plans to Urge US Reconsider Food Policies (September 24, 2003)
The US provides great amounts of food aid. But by granting subsidies to US farmers and cutting down aid to farmers in poor countries, it becomes harder for poor farmers to sustain themselves. (New York Times)

Sharp Increase in US Military Aid to Latin America (September 23, 2003)
While Washington's "war on terrorism" leads to intensified US military aid to Asia and the Middle East, most of the US training of soldiers and police goes to Latin America. Over the last three years, the US tripled its military aid to South America, now almost equaling the amount Washington devotes to social and economic development in the region. (One World)

Tobin Tax Network Position Paper on the International Finance Facility (Fall 2003)
In 2002, the UK Treasury proposed to establish an International Finance Facility (IFF) to secure financing for the Millennium Development Goals. Once set up, the IFF will help raising $ 50 billion yearly. While welcoming the proposal, the Tobin Tax Network argues that the possible exclusion of the poorest countries from IFF funding makes a compelling case for the Tobin Tax as an alternative complementary source of substantial financing for development.

Congressmen Seek to Limit US Aid if Border Ruling Not Heeded (August 12, 2003)
US Congress members introduced a bill threatening to cut US military and development aid to Ethiopia and Eritrea, urging steps by both countries toward peace in the region. Ethiopia has twice delayed implementation of a border ruling which is part of the countries' peace agreement. (UN Integrated Regional Information Network)

Is Aid Helping Military Abuses in Asia? (August 11, 2003)
International donor governments increasingly use the pretext of fighting terrorism to divert development aid to military aid, says this article. In addition, 'interventionist' policies, together with militarized development aid, frequently support human rights abuses. (IBON Red)

Reforming ODA: More than a New Guideline (July 30, 2003)
Asian NGOs claim a partial victory in their campaign for reforming the Japanese system of official development assistance (ODA). While Japan agreed to increase project transparency, it remains committed to "capitalist globalization and neo-liberalism, which is a core problem in the worsening economic and social inequity in Asia." (IBON Red)

Do Aid Studies Govern Policies or Reflect Them? (July 26, 2003)
The Bush Administration used a study by former World Bank economists Craig Burnside and David Dollar as the cornerstone of its Millennium Challenge Account to increase aid to countries with "good" policy of structural adjustment programs and liberalized trade conditions. New research negates this finding, but policy makers ignore this information. (New York Times)

New Lords of Africa (July 9, 2003)
Sociologist Saskia Sassen compares the Bush Administration to the warlords of Africa, describing how the US trades money for essential AIDS medicine in return for oil, military bases, access to markets, and support of US foreign policy. (Guardian)

For Rich, Foreign Aid Is a Tool of Persuasion (June 26, 2003)
The US and other nations distribute foreign aid to areas of strategic importance rather than areas of greatest need. Furthermore, "friends" of the US that vote "correctly" in UN forums are more likely to receive lavish foreign aid. (Christian Science Monitor)

Africa Subsidizing the West (June 11, 2003)
Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni, tells President Bush that Africa needs "trade not aid." He insists that the continent needs relief from Northern trade barriers and that it must export more finished products, rather than low revenue raw materials. (All Africa)

When the Rich Talks Aid, the Poor Don't Always Get It (April 29, 2003)
The US and Japan end up near the rear in the Commitment to Development Index (CDI). The CDI ranks the world's richest nations based on the overall impact of their economic and political policies on poor countries. This index system penalizes 'tied aid' and policies that harm shared global environmental resources. (International Herald Tribune)

Questions Are Raised on US Aid Plan for Nations (March 31, 2003)
President's Bush's $75 billion funding request for a war on Iraq includes $12.4 billion in aid to countries that actually stand to benefit from a post-Saddam region, particularly Israel. Analysts say the aid increases, which require recipients to "buy American," have more to do with promoting US arms and agricultural products in the Middle East than with economic need. (Boston Globe)

Scale Up the Global Fight Against Tuberculosis (March 25, 2003)
The director general of the World Health Organization and the president of the World Bank make a joint plea in the International Herald Tribune on behalf of the two million people who die each year from tuberculosis. Treatment for tuberculosis costs only $10, and a concerted global effort could easily treat all TB sufferers.

Re-examine Donor Support to Education (March 20, 2003)
The Nation urges Kenya to review cautiously the World Bank/IMF's offer of aid for its free primary education system. The commentary calls on international donors to shift from narrowly selected projects to broad-based budget support for development plans.

Left Behind to Starve (March 18, 2003)
As the United States prepares to spend $12 billion a month to bomb Iraqis, it has only earmarked $65 million total to manage the ensuing humanitarian disaster. Meanwhile, people all over Africa face starvation as funds for famine relief run dry, revealing "the disproportion between the money available for sustaining life and the money available for terminating it." (Guardian)

As Famine Returns to Ethiopia, Experts Ask: Is Food Aid Working? (March 18, 2003)
As the shadow of a potentially massive food crisis continues to loom over Ethiopia, some aid workers are beginning to question whether food aid alone can do anything to prevent the country's reoccurring food shortages. (Independent)

France to Increase Its Aid to Africa by 50% (March 12, 2003)
At the launch of the UN Global Compact in Zambia, French ambassador Jean-Paul Monchau announced that France would increase its development assistance to Africa by fifty percent over the next five years. Monchau said France wanted to reverse the economic marginalization of Africa and help the continent reach the Millennium Development Goals. (Post (Lusaka))

The Rise of Pragmatism (March 11, 2003)
Economic woes have forced Japan, the world's most generous donor, to scale down its overseas development aid program. However, some say Japan is also rethinking its commitment to development and multilateralism in favor of a more "self-interested, short-term and regionally-focused" foreign policy. (Guardian)

US Helps Others to Help Itself (March 6, 2003)
Scott Lasensky of the Council on Foreign Relations argues that the Bush administration's foreign aid plan is still based on US political and strategic priorities, rather than on helping the poor. Lasensky also comments that US political aid has limited success in promoting comprehensive reforms in recipient countries. (Los Angeles Times)

Ethiopian Leader Attacks West's Failure To Give Aid (February 25, 2003)
The prime minister of Ethiopia says unfair farm subsidies, unsustainable debt, plummeting coffee prices, and complacency in the international aid community have all contributed to the country's current hunger crisis. Aid donors have pledged only half of the 1.4 million tons of food the UN says the country's people will need to survive. (Guardian)

US Foreign Spending: When Stinginess Costs Plenty (February 25, 2003)
The US must increase its international aid budget to build "global leadership on wisdom, not coercion," writes the former director of resources, plans and policy in the State Department. The US has long failed to devote sufficient resources to development and peacekeeping, and now it may be paying the price. (International Herald Tribune)

Dollar Diplomacy (February 21, 2003)
President Bush's $32 billion aid offer to Turkey reveals "a great deal about the trade-offs taking place beneath all the lofty arguments about going to war with Iraq." Bush hopes to press Turkey to act against the will of its people, who overwhelmingly oppose war, undermining the very principle of democracy the US purports to want for Iraq. (International Herald Tribune)

World Bank Bashes Bloated, Burdensome Aid Donors (February 20, 2003)
In advance of an international aid conference in Rome, the World Bank made an appeal to aid donors to cut the "red tape" and coordinate their efforts. The Bank recommends that donors swallow pride of ownership and pool funds into fewer central agencies so that aid can be distributed more efficiently. (Inter Press Service)

Kenya Told: Get US Aid Before Bush Hits Iraq (February 17, 2003)
Kenya's lobbyists in Washington are urging the country to act fast to secure its share of US foreign aid, citing Washington's "short attention span" in the case of a war on Iraq. The article demonstrates one example of how countries around the world are preparing for the destructive reverberations of a potential US war. (East African)

An Assault on Poverty Is Vital Too (February 13, 2003)
While terrorism and weapons proliferation must be dealt with, British Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown argues, "a world where some live in plenty while half the human race lives on less than two dollars a day cannot, in the long run, be either just or stable." Brown underscores his appeal for a new international finance facility to double aid to poor countries. (Guardian)

EU Breaks Ice on Financing Somaliland (February 11, 2003)
The European Union is the first international body to extend aid directly to the unofficial Somaliland government for an infrastructure development project. The international community quietly supports Somaliland, which has existed in peace and stability for ten years, but the African Union stands staunchly against independence for the state. (afrol News)

A New Way to Help the Poorest (February 11, 2003)
UK Secretary of State for International Development Clare Short defends the UK's position on increasing aid to developing countries, arguing that private sector growth is not enough to alleviate poverty. Instead, aid programs must ensure basic public services for all citizens and avoid undermining the national sovereignty of recipient countries. (Times (London))

Europe - Biggest Aid Packet at Risk (February 4, 2003)
A large network of NGOs have come together to oppose a new European Convention that subordinates development assistance to foreign policy. Development aid should remain a separate policy area and not be used to further 'strategic interests' as the Convention proposes. (OneWorld)

2004 Foreign Aid Budget Spotlights "War on Terror" (February 3, 2003)
The proposed US budget of 2004 clearly demonstrates Washington's priorities. President Bush has requested $380 billion for the military, $4.7 billion for countries that have joined in his "war on terror" and $2 billion for fighting poverty. (Inter Press Service)

Bush Budget Stints on Poor Country Education Plan (February 3, 2003)
The Bush administration's 2004 budget proposal reveals a "lukewarm" commitment to fighting global poverty. The budget fails to allocate any money to the Education for All program to help poor countries enroll all children in primary school by 2015, and also earmarks only $75 million, of the $1 billion needed, to the global trust fund for highly indebted countries. (Reuters)

Brown Plan for Extra $50 Billion in War on Poverty (January 23, 2003)
British Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown proposes that rich countries double aid spending over the next fifteen years to help meet the 2015 Millennium Development Goals of cutting world poverty levels in half. Brown argues the global war on terrorism must include a war on poverty. (Guardian)

The Lack of Funding for HIV/AIDS is Mass Murder by Complacency (January 8, 2003)
Stephen Lewis, the UN Secretary General's Special Envoy for HIV/AIDS in Africa, paints a devastating portrait of the many ways the disease is ripping African communities apart. Lewis emphasizes that Africa is ready to fight the epidemic, as soon as Western donors awaken from their murderous complacency. (United Nations)

US in No Rush Over North Korea's Food Aid (January 6, 2003)
The US continues to withhold grain shipments requested by relief groups in North Korea, blaming lapses in North Korea's aid monitoring system. The World Food Programme disputes that claim, and warns that food aid in North Korea will fall short this year "by a wide margin." (New York Times)

2002

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999

Get Your Money's Worth (December 23, 2002)
The levels of US foreign aid are based on self-interest not altruism. ABC News shows that this aid can never buy allegiance, but only temporarily rent friends.

Egypt is Skeptical About US Program to Foster Democracy (December 18, 2002)
Egypt accuses the United States of "lack(ing) honesty, justice, and transparency" in its plan to offer 29 million dollars in new foreign aid to Arab countries. The US rewarded Egypt's efforts to support the 1991 Gulf War with massive aid and debt forgiveness, but Egypt says promises of aid are "not worth the risk" of going to war again. (New York Times)

A Bond With the Poor of the World (December 16, 2002)
Columnist Larry Elliott details UK chancellor Gordon Brown's proposal to raise 50 billion extra dollars in foreign aid by issuing 15 year bonds, meant to "kick-start" developing economies. Elliott argues aid agencies should support the plan, recognizing the urgency of poverty, debt, famine, and disease in developing countries. (The Guardian)

The "Buy American" Aid Package (November 27, 2002)
The Bush administration's new foreign aid package will require countries to lower trade barriers and liberalize their economies in return for aid money. The package could "accelerate the misery index in Latin America and Africa" by pressuring poor countries to "institute policies that are already impoverishing them." (Foreign Policy in Focus)

Bush Plan Ties Foreign Aid to Free Market and Civic Rule (November 25, 2002)
The Bush administration proposes a new foreign aid plan that would make aid conditional on a country's commitment to "curbing corruption, spending more on education and following free market economic principles." Bush describes the plan as "a key element in maintaining American influence in the world." (New York Times)

EU To Shake-Up Development Aid (November 19, 2002)
The European Commission urges EU foreign ministers to "untie" development aid from requirements that countries use aid to buy goods and services from donor countries. Economists and lobby groups condemn the practice, arguing that it lessens the value of aid and subsidizes donor country businesses. (BBC)

UN Plans Largest Ever Food Aid Programme For Palestinians (November 18, 2002)
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) reports that "the failure of the peace process and the destruction of the Palestinian economy by Israel's closures policy have had the effect of a terrible natural disaster." The UNRWA has increased its food aid to address worsening malnutrition among Palestinian children.

The Give and Take of Foreign Aid (November 14, 2002)
David Sogge, an independent aid analyst, argues that rising rates of international aid should be accompanied by a critical evaluation of that aid's "original purpose." Food aid to Africa, for instance, resulted in an increased dependence on foreign wheat, raising questions about Western donor countries' motives. (Radio Netherlands)

Zimbabwe Accuses US of Invasion Threat (November 6, 2002)
The government of Zimbabwe accused the US of planning to invade the country after a State Department official stated it would take "very intrusive interventionist measures" to ensure food aid reaches hungry Zimbabweans. Aid organizations have criticized President Mugabe of allowing aid to reach only his supporters. (BBC)

Fear of Hunger Sets In (November 6, 2002)
The most severe drought in Eritrea's history may cause severe food shortages. Now that officials have detected the threat early, "if in four or five months we begin to see grossly emaciated children, it will be a failure of the international community." (UN Integrated Regional Information Networks)

There We Go Again (October 18, 2002)
An impassioned letter to the Addis Tribune condemns the Ethiopian government for "shamelessly parad[ing] their hungry peoples before the international community" in appeals for aid. The letter argues the government's utter incompetence and greed, in addition to drought, have caused persistent famine in Ethiopia.

The Fallacy of Foreign Aid as Engine of Economic Development (October 4, 2002)
Economic assistance and aid to Ethiopia have done nothing to alleviate poverty, and accepting more aid only increases the country's debt burden. Instead, this author argues for an approach that relies on domestic resources and promotes Ethiopia's private sector as an engine of growth. (Addis Tribune)

Finance Ministers Agree on Action Plan to 'Deliver Monterrey' (October 3, 2002)
Commonwealth finance ministers pledge to take concrete actions toward increasing development aid and enhancing aid effectiveness, based on agreements made at the Financing for Development Conference in Monterrey. (Commonwealth News and Information Service)

To Break Free of Donor Conditions, Kenya Must Have Long-Term Vision (September 16, 2002)
In this article from the East African, George Ndegwa discusses international aid donors' heavy-handed, condescending conditions for aid to Kenya. He argues that Kenya must develop a plan to release itself from dependence on foreign aid, rather than simply complaining about donor conditions.

Don't Shove Biotech Down Africa's Throat (September 14, 2002)
United States officials pressure African countries facing hunger epidemics to accept genetically modified (GM) grain in the form of aid. However, "in trying to force GM corn onto the plates of African children, the U.S. government is less concerned about their hunger than about expanding the market for biotech seed." (Yellow Times)

UN Factsheet on Finance and Trade (August 2002)
This UN fact sheet shows the last decade's steady decline in ODA, the increase of private financial flows to developing countries, and almost a doubling of the debt burden. (UN Division for Sustainable Development)

Heart of Cheapness (May 31, 2002)
As rock-star Bono and US Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill travel around Africa witnessing the conditions of poverty first-hand, the pair disagree on the US' priorities and its outlook on foreign aid. (New York Times)

New Report Reveals Drop in Aid to Developing Countries (May 16, 2002)
An OECD report reveals a drop in aid from the twenty-nine most industrialized countries from 2000 to 2001 with only five of these countries meeting the UN's target amounts. The decrease in aid combined with rich countries' export subsidies signal economic danger for developing countries. (Inter Press Service)

The Challenge of World Poverty (April 22, 2002)
Rich nations' recent pledges to increase foreign aid will force the IMF and World Bank to make difficult decisions on institutional changes, the debt crisis and trade issues in order to make foreign aid effective. (Economist Global Agenda)

Foreign Aid Returns to Favor (April 17, 2002)
US President George W. Bush proposed an increase in foreign aid, but only to countries that are serious about undertaking reforms. This approach will leave the world's poorest people neglected and proves inconsistent with recent aid to US allies in the war on terrorism. (International Herald Tribune)

The Right Aid Formula This Time Around? (March 24, 2002)
Paul Blustein from the Washington Post skeptically responds to the Monterrey Conference on Finance for Development. He explains how international aid "agencies' new 'selectivity' policy could leave [the] neediest nations out in the cold."

Global Greenbacks (March 22, 2002)
Joseph Stiglitz discusses a new form of global money that would release the pressure on developing countries to hold reserves in US dollars and Treasury bills. (Economic Times)

UN Takes Swing at Crooks Who Steal Aid for the Poor (March 19, 2002)
Corruption by government officials, although not the sole cause of poverty in developing countries, certainly helps to perpetuate the situation. Delegates to the Monterrey conference warn turning "a blind eye to corruption" undermines the effectiveness of aid. (New York Times)

UK Attacks Bush Aid Plan (March 15, 2002)
President Bush's pledge to give $5 billion extra in overseas aid has come under fierce criticism from the UK. According to Clare Short, UK International Development Secretary, the US proposal to convert 50% of aid into grants to specific NGOs would undermine the effectiveness of current World Bank programs. (BBC News)

US Official Says No Aid Promises for UN Meeting (March 12, 2002)
A senior US official stated bluntly that the US would "not commit itself to an increase in development aid" at Monterrey. Instead, President Bush will attend the Financing for Development conference to promote the "US position on development," a statement likely to rile European leaders and development NGOs who support an increase in overseas aid. (Inter Press Service)

Monterrey: UK to Ask for More EU Aid to Africa (March 11, 2002)
In light of the "lukewarm" attitude of the US towards Financing for Development, Clare Short, UK International Development Minister, calls for European leadership in raising levels of overseas aid to Sub-Saharan Africa.(East African, Nairobi)

The UN International Conference on Financing for Development (March 11, 2002)
Prep-Coms held in advance of the 2002 Financing For Development Conference produced "a draft outcome document that is little more than a platform for inaction." Save the Children identifies issues the IMF, World Bank and G8 must address if Monterrey fails to deliver.

The Poor, Alas, Are Still With Us (March 4, 2002)
At the Monterrey Conference on Financing For Development, many hope discussions will lead to a significant increase in Overseas Development Aid. They may be disappointed, as "the post-conference communiqué of what delegates 'decide' is virtually set in stone before any ministers arrive to make their speeches."
(New Statesman)

Billions for Defense, Pennies for Development (March 2, 2002)
"The US will provide more in loans and subsidies for poor nations to buy weapons with aid money next year... than it will spend on bilateral development aid, overseas disaster and refugee assistance" combined. Guns, rather than butter, form the basis of US overseas aid policy, argues the author. (Inter Press Service)

US and EU Squabble over Aid Policy (February 20, 2002)
US Treasury Secretary O'Neill said "to hell with" the Europeans' demand for a World Bank 10% grant cap, urging an increase to 50%. The EU is worried that the bank's coffers may be depleted and urge an increase in overall aid, which the US vehemently rejects. (Reuters)

Time Bush Got Brown's Message (February 11, 2002)
The UK's Gordon Brown urges rich countries to double aid, focus on the poorest in Africa and to combine aid and trade in an effective way. (Guardian)

2001

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999

Britain Urges US to Expand Worldwide Antipoverty Programs (December 18, 2001)
The link between poverty and terrorism creates an interest in worldwide poverty reduction programs. Although the US wants to fight terrorism and poverty, it still seems reluctant to increase its development aid. (New York Times)

Marshall Plan For the Next 50 Years (December 17, 2001)
Britain's Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown argues for a "Marshall Plan" directed to long-term investments in the developing world. Gordon gives his view on what the developing world needs and how poverty reduction strategies can be improved. But where are the developing countries in this plan? (Washington Post)

ODA Steady in 2000; Other Flows Decline (December 12, 2001)
The OECD presents the latest figures on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) and other financial flows. Official funding for development was the lowest since 1990 but ODA flows in real terms changed little from 1999, down just 0.4%. (OECD)

What Goes Around (December 6, 2001)
Hit by recession and debt, Japan has been trimming its ODA budget. Though some worry that this may hurt Japan's influence in the region, recipient countries such as Vietnam have kicked their lobbying efforts into high gear to make sure they get their fair share of the pie. (Far Eastern Economic Review)

Prodi Urges More Aid to Bridge North-South Global Divide (December 3, 2001)
European Commission President Romano Prodi says that rich nations must increase foreign aid and follow their guidelines aimed at channeling 0.7 percent of GDP to poor countries. Otherwise the world will face more terrorism and North-South conflict. (International Herald Tribune)

Annan Launches US$2.5 Billion Humanitarian Appeal (November 22, 2001)
UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan appeals for improvement of humanitarian assistance and protection to help victims of conflict and natural disasters. Annan calls for increased financial and political support from the Member States to meet these goals.(UN Integrated Regional Information Networks)

Another Plea for More Aid to Poor (November 19, 2001)
World Bank and International Monetary Fund sum up the weekend meeting with a plea for increasing aid to developing countries. According to the World Bank's President James Wolfensohn, more countries, except the US, now realize that aid "is not just charity; it's self interest". (Washington Post)

Give More U.S. Aid (October 8, 2001)
In the aftermath of World War II, U.S. aid to war-torn European countries allowed them to rebuild their economies. What the world needs now, argues the author, is another Marshall Plan that will reorient impoverished societies towards modernity. (Newsweek, Atlantic Edition)

From Rhetoric to Reality of African Development (September 11, 2001)
Declining aid and rapid trade liberalization, have made sub-Saharan Africa poorer today than twenty years ago, UNCTAD reports. Greater external financing and a "bold approach to debt relief" are necessary for economic growth and poverty reduction. (UNCTAD Press Release)

Pakistan to Enact Freedom of Information Law: ADB loan (July 25, 2001)
Pakistan agreed to enact Freedom of Information Act as a conditionality to obtain loan of US $130 million from the Asian Development Bank. While the transparency of information may help public institutions to become more responsive to citizens needs, it is likely to open a developing economy like Pakistan to international scrutiny, especially of developed nations. (Dawn)

Questions Over Donor Aid (June 18, 2001)
In formulating development policies, most African governments have relied on the dictates of Western donors for decades. The foreign technical assistance brought rapid expansion of secondary and tertiary education. However, its mismatch with the sluggish economic growth led to the unemployment crisis. (The Nation, Nairobi)

Aid Abroad Is Business Back Home (January 26, 2001)
We already know that when it comes to foreign aid, the US is the world's least generous donor. But it gets worse. This Washington Post article reveals that much of US development aid benefits US citizens and the US "development business," rather than those most in need.

Helms Urges Foreign Aid Be Handled by Charities (January 12, 2001)
Senator Jesse Helms, long a critic of foreign development assistance, stated that he would lead a movement to increase foreign aid, but only if it was channeled through private and religious groups rather than the United States government. (New York Times)

2000

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999 World Bank Calls for More Aid (September 21, 2000)
World Bank president James Wolfensohn called current levels of official development assistance "a crime". The situation of a strong world economy should be used to increase aid to developing nations. But at the same time he rejected a total cancellation of debt. (BBC)

More Is Less: UNCTAD Shows The Way (July 27, 2000)
A doubling of today's development aid could trigger a virtuous circle of rising investment and increased consumption in underdeveloped countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, an UNCTAD study says. These countries' aid dependence could be ended within a decade.(UNCTAD Press Release)

Study Criticises Past Criteria for Allocating EU Aid (April 9, 2000)
Though the EU has announced a shift in aid allocation to need and merit-based criteria in future agreements, a report analyzing recent criteria for allocating EU ODA , has reflected a tendancy to make awards based on member state interests. (Interpress Service)

Aid, Policies, and Growth (2000)
A study by World Bank economists Craig Burnside and David Dollar that examines the relationship between foreign aid, economic policies, and growth of per capita GDP. They conclude that aid has a positive impact on growth in what they call a "good" policy environment. (American Economic Review)

1999

Back to Current Articles | 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | 2002 | 2001 | 2000 | 1999

US Grows Stingier on Foreign Aid (November 26, 1999)
This article highlights the dearth of foreign aid and public contributions to Africa, as opposed to well publicized crisis spots such as Kosovo.

Human Security Will be a Major Challenge in the New Millennium (November 24, 1999)
In an interview with UNDP's Choices, Secretary General Annan says donors must continue financing for development and not divert funds for emergency relief.

A New Approach to Development Assistance? (Fall 1999)
"Highly disparate aid delivery systems within each country... creates aid dependence and undermines ownership by the country." It is clearly time to rethink development assistence. (Overseas Development Council)

Congressional Myopia on Foreign Aid (August 24, 1999)
This New York Times editorial emphasizes the importance of foreign aid for global security and calls on Congress to fully approve Clinton's "modest" foreign aid request.

House Votes to Cut $2 Billion From Clinton Foreign Aid Plan (August 4, 1999)
A New York Times article about the House's proposed foreign aid bill.

UN Presses for More Aid to Poor Countries (May 27, 1999)
New York Times article on an appeal, by UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, for world leaders of industrialized nations to provide more aid to the developing world.

Why is Aid Decreasing? (March 19, 1999)
Extensive data on countries' ODA. From Global Futures Bulletin.

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

2000

1999

Areas of Work

Special Topics

Quicklinks