Information and news about foreign policy

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5 Countries Supporting Foreign Aid

Foreign AidIn 2024, the world’s wealthiest countries donated $212 billion in foreign aid. Historically, foreign aid donations have mostly gone toward education, health care, sanitation and humanitarian assistance in developing countries. These donations are essential to growing the economies of donors and developing countries and helping people worldwide escape poverty. Here are five countries supporting foreign aid in 2025.

Sweden

In April 2025, Sweden pledged $12.7 million to support Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. More than one million Rohingya live in Bangladesh after fleeing violence and persecution in Myanmar. The package is funding sanitation facilities, food assistance and aid for victims of gender-based violence. Women and children account for more than 75% of the refugee population and in refugee camps, hygiene conditions are poor and malnutrition and abuse are rampant.

Sweden also backed Start Fund Bangladesh, an initiative empowering local organizations to respond quickly to emergencies. Additionally, in 2023, the nation helped fund the World Health Organization’s efforts in Ukraine, which provided care to 5.6 million people with noncommunicable diseases and emergency surgery and trauma care to 38,000 people.

Japan

Japan revised its foreign aid laws to improve efficiency in April 2025. The revisions allow the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to provide guaranteed reimbursement to banks in developing countries if borrowers do not repay loans. This helps banks continue to give loans to local businesses. The revisions also allowed JICA to help foreign businesses issue bonds to encourage investment. The changes focus on private sector development, a vital part of sustainable growth in developing countries.

Indonesia has maintained a longstanding partnership with Japan through the Official Development Assistance (ODA) program provided by JICA. Indonesia receives the most aid from Japan, with Japan providing 45% of the cumulative aid Indonesia has received since 1960. In February 2025, Japan worked with UNICEF Indonesia to bring nutritious meals and improved education to 2,500 children in schools across the Papua province of the country.

Slovenia

Slovenia sent two shipping containers full of school supplies, sports equipment and medical supplies to Madagascar in March 2025. Businesses, sports associations and the Olympic Committee of Slovenia provided the donations. The aid package followed the construction of a primary school in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, by the nonprofit Caritas Slovenia. The construction began in September 2024, funded partly by the Slovenian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

Education remains a significant challenge in Madagascar, with fewer than one-third of children enrolled through grade five. Only 17.5% achieve adequate literacy levels among those who complete grade five, highlighting the importance of the aid. Also in 2024, Slovenia sent $16.4 million of humanitarian aid to Ukraine and Palestine. On top of that, it gave $23.8 million to developing countries in the Western Balkans, including Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Italy

In March 2025, Italy announced a donation of $73.2 million to Syria. The aid package will support rebuilding after the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024, with focus areas including hospitals, infrastructure and food supply chains. About 43% of hospitals in Syria are not fully operational and 246 health facilities are at risk of closing due to bankruptcy. Additionally, nine million Syrians are food insecure, while the malnutrition rate in children has risen 3.1% since 2019.

Italy also continues implementing its Mattei Plan to support agriculture, education, health, energy and water access in several African countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast and Mozambique. In May 2025, Italy reaffirmed its collaboration with the African Development Bank as part of the Plan. The partnership aims to invest more than $400 million in private sector development in Africa over the next five years.

South Korea

South Korea sent Myanmar $4 million in aid after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in March 2025. The aid provided the country with 500 tents, 40,000 water bottles and 80,000 blankets. The earthquake destroyed 55,000 homes and displaced 200,000 people.

In 2024, South Korea increased its foreign aid by $780 million compared to 2023, reaching $3.94 billion. This accounted for 0.21% of its gross national income, the highest level since joining the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) in 2010. Aiming to become a leading donor, South Korea is working toward entering the DAC’s top 10, currently ranking 13th. For 2025, it has allocated $4.7 billion to its foreign assistance budget.

These countries are leading the fight against poverty, ensuring foreign aid remains a policy focus in the future. Their efforts will continue to help millions of people.

– Tyler Payne

Tyler is based in Allentown, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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The Push for Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi Arabia

Food Self-Sufficiency in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia imports nearly 80% of its food, relying heavily on international suppliers like the United States (U.S.), which exported $1.58 billion worth of agricultural products to the Kingdom in 2022. Harsh desert conditions and limited freshwater resources have made large-scale farming difficult, leading to an overwhelming dependence on imports. As part of a long-term development strategy, food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia is now a priority of the government, as well as aiming to strengthen food security and reduce vulnerability to global market shocks.

Food Waste and Loss

Despite maintaining food security, Saudi Arabia continues to struggle with food dependency and waste. According to United Nations (U.N.) data, the country accounts for 50% of global food waste, even though it has a population of about 33 million. A recent survey found that 78% of purchased food is discarded within a week to make room for newly bought groceries.

Cultural norms that encourage abundance often lead people to neglect or discard food, worsening the food waste crisis. To address the issue, the Saudi government launched programs such as Vision 2030, which includes a target to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030. In addition, the Saudi government launched the National Program for Food Loss and Waste Reduction to support this goal. Other proposed solutions include raising food prices, as low prices and bulk deals often encourage consumers to purchase more than they need.

Investing in Sustainable Agriculture

To reduce dependence on imports, the Saudi government continues to invest in initiatives like the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), which strengthens agricultural sectors such as soybeans and maize. The country has made significant progress in the 21st century. By 2023, Saudi Arabia had reached self-sufficiency in dairy products and eggs and began exporting the surplus. The country also boosted the production of potatoes, poultry, tomatoes, red meat, carrots, fish and onions. To support continued agricultural growth, the government promotes innovations such as vertical farming, greenhouses and hydroponics. These technologies help maximize yield while conserving resources.

International Investments

Beyond domestic initiatives, Saudi Arabia is investing internationally to secure food supplies. The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) has acquired an 80% stake in Singapore-based Olam Agri for $1.8 billion. This acquisition provides Saudi Arabia with access to global supply chains and strengthens its position in the international agricultural market.

Moving Forward

Saudi Arabia’s population will likely reach 40 million by 2050. To keep pace, the government focuses on improving food consumption efficiency and reducing dependence on imports. Although the country currently contributes a significant portion of global food waste, new regulations and public awareness campaigns could help lower that share over the next five years.

Efforts to expand local food production, improve waste management and promote agricultural innovation remain integral to food self-sufficiency in Saudi Arabia, and its development plans. Continued investment in sustainable practices could help the country strengthen food security and support its growing population in the years ahead.​

– Naseem Rahman

Naseem is based in Staten Island, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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US Sanctions and Poverty in Iran

How US Sanctions Have Affected Poverty Rates in IranSince the United States (U.S.) reinstated economic sanctions on Iran in May 2018, following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from a landmark nuclear deal, the country has faced a severe economic recession. These sanctions have significantly worsened poverty rates in Iran, driving inflation, devaluing the national currency and reducing access to essential goods. As unemployment rises and public services decline, low-income families struggle to meet basic needs, pushing more citizens into poverty.

The Aim of the Sanctions

The U.S. sanctions froze Iranian government assets in the U.S. and targeted nearly every sector of Iran’s economy, including oil, banking, insurance, arms trade and financial services. These measures cut off Iran’s access to overseas assets and hard currency. Sanctions also restricted third-party transactions using Iran’s currency, the rial, while designating Iran’s Central Bank as a foreign terrorist organization.  These sanctions triggered a 4.8% contraction in Iran’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018, with the unemployment rate rising from 14.5% in 2018 to 16.8% in 2019.

Impact on Oil Exports

The sanctions severely limited Iran’s ability to export oil, a key source of revenue. Before the sanctions, Iran produced about 3.8 million barrels per day (bpd) and exported around 2.3 million bpd. By April 2019, exports had plummeted to roughly 1 million bpd, cutting billions from government revenue. This decline also reduced Iran’s foreign exchange earnings. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimated Iran’s foreign currency reserves at $86 billion—20% below 2013 levels.

Rising Food and Fuel Costs

The value of the rial has halved since the sanctions’ reinstatement, increasing demand for foreign currency. This erosion of savings has slashed purchasing power. The World Bank reported a sharp rise in food prices, further burdening vulnerable families. Although poverty rates in Iran had declined for two decades, they began rising again in 2014. As of 2024, the poverty rate remains high, with an estimated 40% of the population living below the poverty line. The economic crisis has also impacted nutrition. By 2014, the lowest-income 20% of Iranians consumed fewer than the 2,100 daily calories required for basic nutrition, while protein intake fell below the 60 grams needed for an average-weight adult by 2018.

Deteriorating Living Standards

Sanctions have also undermined access to health care, limiting the availability of essential medicines for epilepsy and chemotherapy treatments. These shortages have disproportionately affected low-income families, women, children and patients with chronic illnesses.

Potential Solutions and Future Prospects

Efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) stalled in 2022, but renewed negotiations could offer a path forward. Some Iranian policymakers advocate reducing economic ties with the West to limit future vulnerability to sanctions. In the absence of diplomatic progress, Iran may continue strengthening economic ties with Russia and China, the latter remaining a key buyer of Iranian oil. Collaborations with neighboring Middle Eastern countries could also create economic synergies that bypass sanctions. Establishing medical supply chains, facilitating food aid programs or launching United Nations (U.N.)-backed relief initiatives could alleviate humanitarian suffering while stabilizing the economy.

A Path Forward

The prospect of further sanctions under Trump’s administration threatens to deepen the country’s economic crisis. Without international support or policy shifts, poverty will likely worsen in Iran. However, combining humanitarian aid, international partnerships and domestic reforms could mitigate the impact. Initiatives focused on stabilizing the currency, reducing inflation and expanding job opportunities could be crucial in improving the quality of life for millions of Iranians.

– Amani Almasri

Amani is based in Durham, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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United States Foreign Policy and The Resignation of Josh Paul

Josh PaulOn March 25, 2024, Clint Borgen, the founder of The Borgen Project, interviewed Josh Paul, the former director at the U.S. Department of State in the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, as he discussed his resignation and dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas war. 

The Israel-Hamas War

On October 7, 2023, Hamas attacked Israel, a tragedy that deeply affected Josh Paul, as the horrors of the attack and its repercussions on innocent lives made him sick to his stomach. While he acknowledges Israel’s right to defend itself, he could not condone the brutal massacre of Palestinian civilians. His last day at the State Department was on October 18, 2024. 

Three Major Concerns

Paul had three significant concerns that ultimately led to his resignation: 

  1. Scope and Scale of Destruction: He was alarmed by the extensive destruction caused by U.S.-provided weapons to Israel, including both past usage and the further supply of new arms.
  2. Disconnected Policy Premises: Paul expressed his concerns regarding the U.S. policy that still hinged on the viability of the Oslo Accords, which he felt was disconnected from the realities on the ground, such as the siege of Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank. A two-state solution is unlikely as Israeli leaders and a majority of civilians do not support it. 
  3. Lack of Internal Debate: Within the State Department, there seemed to be no interest in discussing the consequences of U.S. actions, particularly regarding Gaza and broader border policy concerns.

Days Leading Up to the Resignation

“Violence will only lead to more violence and more suffering,” Paul said. 

He advocated for a pause and reevaluation of current policies. However, he received mixed responses: while some agreed with him, they also warned that he could be fired and that nothing would change. 

As the days passed and devastation unfolded, Paul’s concerns deepened as he was being asked to approve major arms transfers to Israel. 

“We’re providing the weapons that Israel is using to conduct these operations, but also the diplomatic support that enables Israel to continue to dance above international law and above the United Nations and also the defensive support that protects Israel from Iran, and also the diplomatic encouragement and effort to keep Israel integrated within the region,” explained Paul.

Human Rights Concerns and the Leahy Laws

To provide support for his argument against U.S. participation in Israel’s war with Hamas, Josh Paul highlighted the implications of the Leahy Law, which prohibits the U.S. from providing security assistance to units implicated in human rights violations. He emphasized that urban environments in Gaza were being bombed, intensifying civilian suffering. 

Paul stated, “We’ve seen videos of a child walking with his mother, waving a white flag, and a sniper shooting him.”

Drawing comparisons between the U.S. campaign against ISIS and Israel’s actions in Gaza, Paul noted that the U.S. used far fewer bombs in the overall counter ISIS  campaign, while Israel dropped 22,000 munitions into Gaza within the first few months of the conflict. A task force assessing U.S.-provided weapons in Gaza included Wes J. Bryant, a former Joint Terminal Attack Controller for the U.S. Air Force, who Paul described “had never seen anything like the negligence of Israel’s approach in Gaza.” 

Further, he questioned where the line would be drawn between war and politics, arguing that Israel cannot win the war by bombing Palestinian populations. Attacks such as these only push civilians into joining Hamas. However, it is important to note that there are civilians who do not align themselves with Hamas’ worldview and seek peace and stability in the region. 

Paul noted, “If your family has been wiped out, you might have a bone to pick.”

The Role of AI and Targeting Tactics

Paul discussed Israel’s use of AI systems such as Lavender, which identifies targets based on social media activity,  and “Daddy’s Home,” which strikes targets when they return home to their families. He questioned how Israel defines Hamas, pointing out that the term sometimes includes non-combatants such as humanitarian aid escorts and street cleaners.

Generational Shifts and Political Debate

Paul’s extensive experience working with the State Department, dealing primarily with foreign relations, diplomacy and communications with international countries, has allowed him to observe the generational shift in attitudes towards U.S. relations with Israel, with younger Americans increasingly critical of unconditional support for Israel. This shift, driven by social media and less religious affiliation, contrasts with older generations’ views. 

Paul highlighted the protests on college campuses, and how the administrations’ responses, marked by egregious arrests, angered students’ and prompted retaliation. He recounted a conversation he had with a student at Dartmouth, who shared his perspective on the protests being broken up by riot police. 

“I don’t care about this issue, I don’t see eye to eye with the protestors, but when you start arresting my friends, I’m going to be there the next day,” he stated. 

The Broader Implications

Paul criticized President Joe Biden and his administration, stating, “President Biden has built a reputation on being a man of empathy and compassion, and that empathy and compassion has just been entirely absent for the last seven months when it comes to Palestinian lives.” 

He notes that the conflict has damaged the West’s credibility in maintaining international order and a rule of law, undermining institutions like the International Criminal Court and the United Nations. 

“The United States’ response is going to do damage to our own interests and lead to a world where there is no longer a global standard of international law” stated Paul. 

In order to see change, Josh Paul urges Americans to push the Biden Administration and their members of Congress to take a different approach to the Israel-Hamas War. He reiterated that the only way that the U.S. is going to use its leverage properly is if Americans are pushing Congress to make changes. Paul noted that applying pressure to create change is a marathon, not a sprint and Americans should keep pushing, especially in time for the West Bank.

“It is in America’s interest to have a system that applies to the rule of law,’ said Paul. 

– Lila Russell
Photo: Flickr

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5 Ways Connecticut Senators Fight for Foreign Aid

Connecticut SenatorsConnecticut Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) have long been advocates for aid-based foreign policy. Frequently, they try to increase the presence of the United States on the global stage. As a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, Murphy has a clear vision of progressive U.S. foreign policy, while Blumenthal has a similar vision of foreign involvement and humanitarian assistance.

5 Ways Connecticut Senators Fight for Foreign Aid

  1. Increasing the International Affairs Budget: In March 2021, Murphy, among other senators, proposed a $12 billion increase to the U.S. International Affairs Budget. Protecting the International Affairs Budget is unquestionably essential to mitigating global poverty. As of 2021, however, foreign aid constitutes less than 1% of the U.S. budget. As one of the most powerful countries in the world, the U.S. has the capacity to increase aid exponentially. Through this proposal, called “Investing in 21st Century Diplomacy,” Murphy has shown a strong commitment toward maintaining diplomatic ties and providing aid to other countries.
  2. Requesting Funding for Refugee Programs: In March 2018, Blumenthal, with 24 other senators, wrote a letter to Senate appropriators calling for complete funding for particular refugee programs. Amid a time when the International Affairs Budget was in danger of reducing, Blumenthal led a letter advocating for refugee programs. In this proposal, Blumenthal recognized the national security benefits of increased foreign aid as well as the commitment of the U.S. to provide aid. Primarily, the letter responded to the Trump administration’s proposed elimination of the ERMA account, a source of funding for unforeseen humanitarian crises.
  3. Introducing the Global Health Security Act: Murphy, along with Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) introduced the Global Health Security Act in April 2020, a bill that focuses on implementing the Global Health Security Agenda by appointing two different entities: The United States Coordinator for Global Health Security and the Global Health Security Interagency Review Council. The Global Health Security Act focuses on preventing infectious diseases across the globe. Its central goal is to achieve the Global Health Security Agenda, a 2014 initiative similarly targeted toward stemming infectious diseases.
  4. Recognizing COVID-19 in India: In May 2021, Blumenthal recognized the severe COVID-19 crisis in India and the need for immediate foreign aid. While at an event in Middletown, Connecticut, Blumenthal advocated the need for various medical supplies to go to India. While visiting a local Hindu temple, Blumenthal spoke about the issue and the need for immediate U.S. action.
  5. Advocating for Humanitarian Assistance: Murphy furthermore advocates for humanitarian assistance to fight hunger and poverty, two issues that impact extremism. As a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, Murphy has recently advocated for humanitarian aid in Yemen, a country struggling with famine and poverty. In May 2021, Murphy, with three other senators, wrote a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The letter thanked him for his recent involvement in fighting the crisis in Yemen and urged the Biden administration to take a more active role in encouraging other countries to do the same thing.

Committing to a Progressive Foreign Policy

Actively solving issues like hunger and infectious diseases tie directly into fighting global hunger. Hence, Connecticut Senators Murphy and Blumenthal remain committed to a progressive foreign policy. They have shown their commitment through public statements, letters to other senators and legislation like the Global Health Security Act. Ultimately, the Connecticut Senators want the U.S. to be an active member of a global community. The country would, accordingly, use its power to alleviate global inequalities and stem poverty.

– Samuel Weinmann
Photo: Flickr

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Taking a Feminist Approach to Foreign Policy

Taking a Feminist Approach to Foreign PolicyOn March 8, 2021, Rep. Jackie Speier [D-CA-14], a well-known advocate for women’s rights, introduced H.Res.196: Expressing the importance of taking a feminist approach to all aspects of foreign policy. The bill’s focus is to close the gender gap between men and women globally by taking a feminist approach to foreign policy. The resolution has 43 co-sponsors with an array of male and female representatives supporting the resolution, several of whom serve on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

Global Gender Equality Issues

The inequalities among men and women exist in a myriad of forms, several of which are intersecting issues. One of the most prevalent inequalities exists in the workforce. Globally, women earn 24% less than men. This gap is so large that the current rate of progress would see 170 years pass before the gender pay gap is closed. Women often work longer than men when accounting for unpaid work such as household duties and child care. Despite this fact, women still earn less money by a considerable margin. According to Oxfam, women do double the amount of unpaid care work as men, sometimes even 10 times as much. The estimated monetary value of the unpaid work women do is, at minimum, $10.8 trillion.

Also, the fundamental reason women have waned behind men is that women have fewer rights. Worldwide, women have only three-fourths of the rights that men have. The lack of rights means women are not able to progress and develop at the same rate as men despite being disproportionately affected by poverty. Unfortunately, gender inequality impacts developing countries the most, mainly because an annual amount of $9 trillion is lost due to inequality. This significant amount of money could instead uplift economies and reduce poverty in communities.

Sustainable Development Goals

Goal 5 of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals relates to achieving gender equality. Taking a feminist approach to foreign policy would help achieve this goal due to the influence the approach would have on promoting and supporting global adoptions of policies that directly improve gender equality. More so, achieving gender equality would help accomplish several other Sustainable Development Goals such as fair and equal employment for all and ending poverty.

Rep. Jackie Speier

Rep. Jackie Speier has advocated for women’s rights throughout her tenure in Congress. Newsweek nominated Speier as one of the 150 most “Fearless Women” in the world. Rep. Speier was also considered one of the 50 most influential people in U.S. politics for introducing the Me Too movement to Congress. Rep. Speier and Sen. Gillibrand introduced the ME TOO Congress Act in 2017, which formed the fundamental part of the Congressional Accountability Act (CAA) Reform Act.

H.Res.196

H.Res.196 provides solutions to the global problem of gender inequality. The focus is on recognizing all examples of inequality and attempting to end them accordingly. The priority is to advocate peacefully and methodically for women’s rights worldwide. H.Res. 196 works with clear and precise objectives to address gender equality. The policy goals are reached by allocating more money to support worldwide efforts in increasing women’s rights. The feminist approach to foreign policy not only benefits women who have suffered from inequality but serves for the betterment of the entire world.

H.Res.196 profoundly expresses how a feminist approach to foreign policy can help solve several intersecting issues worldwide. Supplying foreign aid and support would bring the world closer to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals. Adding a feminist focus to this will accelerate global development efforts to end poverty worldwide.

– James Van Bramer
Photo: Flickr

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How Global Affairs Will Be Impacted by Biden’s “Feminist Foreign Policy”

Biden’s “Feminist Foreign Policy”The Biden administration has made gender equity a cornerstone of its domestic and foreign policy. About 61% of White House employees are women. Furthermore, the administration’s intention is to “protect and empower women around the world.” The government aims to do this by making women’s rights a key component of foreign policy. Biden’s “feminist foreign policy” would redirect national attention from military dominance to global equality by instituting new changes to systems of defense, foreign aid, immigration, trade and diplomacy.

Studies on global gender and security suggest that if the United States increases its effort to improve women’s rights abroad, countries with a greater emphasis on gender equity will be less likely to experience instability and civil war. As such, the Biden administration has the power to advocate for a more just, inclusive and peaceful world.

Feminist Foreign Policy in Other Countries

Canada and Mexico have adopted a women-friendly stance on foreign policy. Thus, Canada began a “feminist international assistance policy” that focuses on supporting the global health of women, children and adolescents in 2017. The Canadian government pledged an annual $1.4 billion to foreign governments and international organizations. This money will be used to increase access to education, healthcare and nutrition in developing countries. Approximately $700 million will go to ending gender-based violence and promoting sexual health. Furthermore, $10 million will be allocated for UNICEF to reduce female genital mutilation.

In January 2020, Mexico became the first Latin American country to adopt a feminist foreign policy. The government aims to increase global gender equity, combat gender-based violence and end inequality in social and environmental justice. In addition, Mexico plans to increase the foreign ministry staff to have at least 50% women by 2024. Moreover, the nation wants to ensure equal workplace conditions.

Additionally, France, Norway and Sweden have adopted an official feminist foreign policy overseas. Now, the U.S. will join a growing list of nations committed to promoting gender equality.

Feminist Foreign Policy in the United States

The departments of Defense, State, Homeland Security and the U.S. Agency for International Development have each announced a plan to advance women empowerment in 2020. This plan promotes women’s participation in foreign diplomacy, advocates for women’s rights and ensures access to humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, Biden’s feminist foreign policy aims to establish a cohesive foundation across trade, aid, defense, diplomacy and immigration that prioritizes equality for women. The strategy would emphasize peace and security as methods of conflict resolution. It will also increase the representation of women across all branches of government.

One of President Biden’s first actions in office was to eliminate the “global gag rule.” This global gag rule limits the type of healthcare services organizations receiving U.S. foreign aid are allowed to perform. The funding restrictions limited access to all types of healthcare in low-to-middle-income countries. Moreover, this restriction exposed women to a greater risk of disease and forced them to seek unsafe health services. A major goal of the Biden administration is to reallocate financial resources in a way that levels the playing field for women. Furthermore, the administration aims to provide greater support and opportunities for women. Additionally, the U.S. government plans to use foreign aid to increase support for women in the areas of healthcare, education, workplace protections and conflict zones.

The United States is unlikely to replace a focus on military strategy with a strictly feminist foreign policy. However, promoting gender equity at home and abroad can set the stage for an increased global emphasis on women’s rights. The U.S. can reallocate more financial resources to women’s access to education, healthcare and human rights and increase women’s participation in government and diplomacy. This dual strategy aims to combat existing inequality and create a more peaceful and equitable global future.

– Eliza Browning
Photo: Flickr

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4 New Members of the 117th Congress Who Could Shape America’s Approach to Foreign Aid

4 Incoming Members of the 117th Congress Who Could Shape America’s Approach to Foreign Aid
At least 65 representative-elects and senator-elects joined the 117th Congress in January 2021 to serve with a president who wants to “bring aid back to the center of our foreign policy.” The next two years could represent a sea of change in the U.S.’s approach to foreign policy and foreign aid under an administration committed to global development. Several new representatives want to increase foreign aid and improve the U.S.’s approach to peacekeeping and diplomacy. Here are four new members of the 117th Congress who could shape the U.S.’s approach to foreign aid.

4 New Members of the 117th Congress

  1. Sara Jacobs (CA-53) served as a policy advisor to the Hillary Clinton 2016 Presidential Campaign. Jacobs has worked to end child poverty through her nonprofit San Diego For Every Child. Jacobs was elected to represent California’s 53rd district in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Foreign Policy for America Action Network, a non-partisan advocacy organization that promotes safe foreign policy and endorses a slate of candidates each cycle who are believed to serve on key committees or lead on key legislation, endorsed Jacobs. The organization stated that she is ready to tackle issues such as immigration reform and global health on day one. According to Jacobs’ website, she supports protecting and maintaining current funding levels for USAID. However, she also supports properly funding the State Department and USAID to maximize efficiency.
  2. Mondaire Jones (NY-17) has worked in the Department of Justice and provided legal counsel with the Legal Aid Society. When inaugurated, he and fellow New York Representative-elect Ritchie Torres will be the first openly gay Black men in Congress. Jones promotes a “Diplomacy-First” foreign policy, sharing the belief that if the U.S. can dedicate more funding to foreign aid. He has criticized budget cuts to USAID (the president’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 budget provided $41 billion for USAID, as opposed to $50 billion in the FY 2016 budget) and plans to push for reinvestment in the State Department to allow the U.S. to take initiatives in humanitarian efforts. According to his website, Jones supports redirecting funds designated for conflict and weapons sales toward aid and promoting peace and development in foreign countries.
  3. Jake Auchincloss (MA-4), a former city councilor, was recently elected to the district formerly held by Joseph Kennedy III. With an extensive background in foreign policy and service in Panama and Afghanistan, Auchincloss supports a nuanced apportionment of foreign aid. Auchincloss advocates for a recommitment to “the types of foreign aid programs that strengthened America’s alliances and improved our security in the 20th century.” He supports continued aid to countries like Iraq in combatting COVID-19 and terrorism, and he wants the U.S. to commit to increasing foreign aid. Like The Borgen Project, he believes that foreign aid is a national security asset to the U.S.
  4. In June, Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), a Bronx middle school principal, defeated 16-term incumbent Eliot Engel. Bowman has emphasized the necessity for a foreign policy that gives voice to developing nations, particularly in Africa, as those countries emerge as world leaders on the global market. Bowman also supports a new Marshall Plan, which lent assistance to Europe after World War II. This new Marshall Plan put forward by Representative Joaquin Castro (TX-20) is meant to address the economic and social disparities in Central America that have led to mass migration, poverty and violence. By addressing the root causes of these issues, Bowman believes the U.S. can help millions of vulnerable people.

A Look to the Future

Jacobs, Jones, Auchincloss and Bowman have come out in favor of innovative solutions to addressing global poverty. However, any of the new members of the 117th Congress could advance the U.S.’s approach to foreign aid. The bold approaches put forth by some of these representatives have the potential to set a standard for the future of U.S. foreign aid as Congress takes on the COVID-19 pandemic and faces a changing foreign and economic landscape.

– Kieran Graulich
Photo: Flickr

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Sweden’s Feminist Foreign Policy

Sweden’s Feminist Foreign PolicySweden, one of the Nordic countries known for its economic stability, high education rates and social mobility, has also been serving as a prime example of humanitarian-focused foreign policy. The Scandinavian nation has not participated in a single war since 1814 and is currently running one of the world’s most revolutionary foreign policies. Sweden’s feminist foreign policy is the first of its kind, with aims to promote gender equality worldwide and put women at the forefront of humanitarian efforts.

Sweden’s Feminist Foreign Policy

With regard to foreign policy, minority groups and underrepresented populations are often unintentionally overlooked. Sweden’s foreign policy, on the other hand, takes a modern approach, with Sweden becoming the first country in the world to launch a feminist foreign policy in 2014. Sweden has a feminist government and years of efforts to promote gender equality and take heed of the female voices rarely heard in the distant wars and conflicts inspire the feminist approach.

Sweden’s feminist foreign policy is based on the justification that lasting peace, security and development cannot be achieved if half the world’s population is excluded. The policy is a response to the discrimination and systematic subordination that endless women and girls face daily, all over the world. By taking this approach, the Swedish government hopes to change the way the world perceives the structure of international relations in today’s globalized world.

Sweden’s International Aid

Sweden is one of the only nations that has surpassed the goal of giving 0.7% of its GNI to foreign aid and has been providing around 1% consistently since 2008. Prior to COVID-19, the developmental aid from Sweden had been mainly directed to Afghanistan, Somalia, Mozambique, Tanzania and Uganda.

What is Sida?

Sweden’s foreign policy aims to help nations worldwide accomplish the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The type of aid Sweden provides and how a nation will utilize this aid depends on the needs of each nation and the nation’s SDG standing. Sida is a Swedish government agency that works globally to fight for the improvement of SDGs in every nation and creates long-term projects that aim to do so. Sweden selects strategies and policies for each country that it gives aid to in accordance with each country’s needs, ensuring to personalize foreign aid to achieve the maximum impact.

A Leader in Foreign Policy

For more than a decade, Sweden has been acting as a leader in humanitarian international relations and is now one of three nations running a feminist foreign policy. The country ensures in every step that its actions on foreign grounds and the aid provided have positive long-term influences, rather than acting as a momentary band-aid. This type of foreign policy is an inspiring example of what is necessary to achieve the SDGs by 2030 while fighting global poverty, hunger and inequality worldwide.

– Anna Synakh
Photo: Flickr

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The Case for Action in Lebanon

When people think of poverty in the Middle East, they may not always picture Lebanon. The country Lebanon is a small yet very ethnically diverse nation in the Middle East. Sunni and Shia Muslims, Maronite Christians and other groups populate it. Ethnic divisions and sectarian power struggles led to a civil war that lasted 15 years. While the war was ultimately ended and a new republic formed, divisions remain. Now, positive action in Lebanon is essential for the nation, region and the global community’s well-being.

Lebanon in the 21st Century

Political divisions deepened when on Feb. 14, 2005, Lebanon’s former Prime Minister, Rafic Hariri, died in a car bombing assassination. Two movements formed in the wake of this tragedy. One was the March 8th Alliance, led by current President Michel Aoun and supported by Hezbollah. The other was the March 14th Alliance led by Rafic’s son Saad Hariri. Each side receives backing from different, foreign nations. Moreover, the current political struggle reflects a greater proxy conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

A new government formed in 2016 and power has since been shared between the factions of Hariri and Aoun. While this has led to a more peaceful nation, it has also caused political paralysis — choking the economy. The government has also been plagued with corruption. In this same vein, protests in 2019 led to the resignation of Saad Hariri as prime minister and the formation of an anti-corruption panel.

Despite this, the country continues to suffer from a government stagnated by political divisions and corruption. Despite Lebanon’s status as one of the Middle East’s wealthier countries, its people do not benefit from that wealth. Almost 50% of the country’s population now lives below the poverty line. Furthermore, with the spread of COVID-19, the country’s economic crisis will only worsen.

Why People Should Act

A recent explosion in Beirut (Lebanon’s capital) is just the latest crisis in a country beset with political and economic strife. Many countries in Europe have already pledged aid to the people of Lebanon. It is imperative that the U.S. also take action in Lebanon. Not only does the U.S. have an obligation to help people in need, but also keeping Lebanon from further destabilizing will be essential in ensuring a more peaceful Middle East. If Lebanon’s government collapses, then the country could have a repeat of the civil war with different militant groups emerging and vying for control. Poverty would increase, many Syrian and Palestinian refugees in the country would become displaced. Tragically, more deaths would result from sectarian violence.

However, if the U.S. takes action in Lebanon, the U.S. itself benefits as well. By helping Syrian refugees in the country, Americans would be able to prevent the influx of refugees in the U.S. Lebanon is also a strong importer of U.S. goods. Rescuing its economy from collapse would advance U.S. trade policy and generate more prosperity for both nations.

Who is Helping?

There are currently many groups helping by taking action in Lebanon, right now. One such group is the nongovernmental organization, Humanity and Inclusion. It has been working to better the lives of people all over the world with disabilities as well as economic vulnerabilities. When it began in 1982, its goal was victim assistance, but it has also become responsible for preventing injuries through weapon and landmine clearance, risk education activities and much more. Since 1992, it has been working in Lebanon, engaging in helpful practices such as post-surgical physical therapy and psychological first aid. Its work is very impactful, lasting throughout the decades. In 1997, it received the Nobel Peace Prize for its work to ban landmines. In 2019, it reached more than 2 million people in 63 different countries.

Other great ways to get involved include staying informed and educating others about Lebanon. It is never too late to make a difference.

– Isaac Boorstin
Photo: USAID