For or Against?
Elon Musk has taken a sledgehammer to USAID, affecting people most in need, employees, families, and businesses at home and abroad. Are you for or against foreign aid? Here are some thoughts.
INTRODUCTION
I just heard Trump say, “Freeze foreign aid. Isn’t that nice?” The question: “Is it?”
Some people think foreign aid, like USAID, is a waste.
Others strongly disagree. They see foreign aid as incredibly important for helping the less fortunate cope with hunger, sickness, and natural disasters. And it gives the USA strong international political value.
This article explores both sides of this critical discussion, looking at the arguments for and against foreign aid.
POLARIZING SIDES WITH USAID
The polarizing sides.
Cutting USAID would be a disaster. It should be continued because it is a small part of the US budget and has many benefits at home and abroad.
The other side.
It is a great move. Why should the US send aid money overseas?
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HOW DO YOU LOOK AT FOREIGN AID?
THOSE FOR USAID
Those supporting USAID suggest cutting foreign aid is like hitting a giant alligator with a tiny fly swatter. Compared to the US budget, it's a drop in the bucket, and eliminating it does not solve big at-home problems. Cutting it will create many more problems than can be resolved.
Those who argue for foreign aid suggest it is vital for helping people in need around the world. They see it as a moral obligation to assist countries struggling with poverty, disease, or natural disasters. They argue the positive impact of aid on improving lives, promoting stability, and fostering international cooperation. They also highlight the long-term benefits of preventing crises that can spill over into global issues like terrorism or disease outbreaks.
THOSE AGAINST FOREIGN AID
Those against might ask: Why should we spend our money on other countries? They might point to instances where aid wasn't used effectively or went to corrupt governments. They believe the money could be better spent at home – but for what?
THE SIDE YOU ARE ON COMES DOWN TO THIS
We could wax eloquently about all the good that USAID is doing. I have my opinion, and you have yours; it comes down to individual value sets and beliefs. I don't want to suggest your position, but I would like to encourage you to think. As Obama said in 2016, “Ignorance is politics and life is not a virtue.”
WHERE DOES THE FUNDING GO?
Approximately 60% of USAID funding is awarded to U.S. organizations, which includes farmers and other businesses, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions.
Eliminating USAID would remove roughly $18 billion from the US economy, leading to considerable home-grown economic consequences. These will particularly affect the agricultural sector, associated industries, and rural economies.
CONCLUSION
Deciding which side is right is tricky if there is a “right side.” The best way to examine foreign aid is to learn about both arguments, examine specific examples of successful and unsuccessful aid programs, and consider why countries give or receive assistance. Then, you can form your opinion based on facts and thoughtful consideration. Please remember that ignorance is not a virtue.
openyourojos, is asking all those who voted for Mr. Trump and those who did not too much to ask?