BASW General Election Blog: Restore foreign aid contribution

Restore foreign aid contribution back to 0.7% and fulfil international obligations

When the UK’s foreign aid contribution was reduced in 2019 from 0.7% to 0.5% of gross national income, announced as a ‘temporary’ measure, experts warned of the devastating consequences of reduced spending on critical projects in vulnerable countries. 

In the UK all areas of spending of foreign aid have seen a reduction, with the impact on women and girls, indigenous people, people with a disabilities and others in humanitarian need being especially severe. Further, since 2020, we have also experienced the devastating impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, and the continuing impact of climate change and war, especially on the poorest communities. 

We live in an increasingly fragile world, with political, economic and social fragility being experienced, especially in the most vulnerable countries. This has placed achievements of the United Nations Agenda 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the set of universal goals that meet the urgent environmental, political and economic challenges facing our world, is in grave danger, along with humanity’s very own survival. 

Addressing these challenges requires global responsibility and funding. Notwithstanding the surge in nationalism and populism, international collaboration is vital to tackle contemporary challenges. Further in recognition of our historic role as a colonial power and major carbon emitters, we need to restore our commitment to restoring our foreign aid contribution.   

As social workers we uphold human rights and defend social justice. Development aid shifts power and enables rights. Aid has the ability to restore solidarity, empowering those who are marginalised and those who are most in need. 

We know that supporting people and communities in their own countries has a direct and positive impact on their lives, supporting local leadership and empowering them to improve their wellbeing and addressing the causes and effects of poverty.  As a nation we need to uphold our international responsibilities by meeting the UN-backed target of 0.7%, which was enshrined into law in 2015.

Janet Walker - BASW Elected Director/Chair International Committee