Arabic version: المملكة المتحدة تخفض المساعدات للدول الأكثر فقراً بنسبة 56% على مدى ثلاث سنوات

The UK government has announced significant reductions in overseas aid, impacting some of the world’s poorest nations. As part of a budget cut plan, bilateral aid to Africa is set to decrease by almost £900 million by 2028-29, representing a 56% reduction. According to The Guardian, this decision follows a broader cut of over £6 billion, reallocating funds to boost defense spending.

The cuts will affect essential services in countries such as Yemen, Somalia, and Afghanistan. While some nations will still receive support through multinational agencies, countries like Pakistan and Mozambique will see their development aid significantly reduced. The UK government aims to shift its focus toward conflict zones, primarily directing aid to Ukraine, Sudan, and Palestine.

Development Minister Jenny Chapman noted that some of the poorest African nations that would feel the brunt of the cuts, such as Mozambique, Malawi, and Sierra Leone, prefer partnerships with the UK to improve their financial and energy systems rather than relying on traditional aid. She emphasized that the cuts are not a reflection of a loss of faith in international development but rather a response to current global threats.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) plans to phase out funding for bilateral programs in G20 countries, with exceptions for refugee support in Turkey. This overhaul is expected to prioritize geopolitical security and direct funding to larger multinational organizations, including Gavi, the vaccine alliance.

The aid cuts have raised concerns among humanitarian groups, with Adrian Lovett from the ONE Campaign warning that slashing aid to Africa could have devastating consequences, leaving millions without access to basic healthcare and education. The cuts are projected to bring UK aid spending to its lowest level since records began in 1970, at just 0.24% of gross national income.