Mary Stata writes about reforming U.S. foreign aid in the latest issue of PeaceSigns. An excerpt:
Foreign aid is the primary policy avenue for the United States to help alleviate poverty and hunger. America’s primary legislation governing foreign aid took effect in the 1960s. The development challenges of the 21st century differ greatly from those of the 1960s, but the legislation remains unreformed. An alarming consequence of outdated foreign aid is the increasing role the Department of Defense plays in distributing aid and engaging in development work. The military’s massive budget allows it to fill in the gaps created by an inefficient and under-resourced foreign aid system.
Currently, the United States’ global development policies and programs are scattered throughout 12 departments, 25 agencies, and nearly 60 government offices. A more cohesive foreign aid system would improve efficiency, accountability, and effectiveness. In an uncertain economic climate, it is sensible to use US foreign aid dollars cogently and in a fiscally responsible manner.
Rep. Howard Berman (CA-28) and Rep. Mark Kirk (IL-10) recently introduced H.R. 2139, a bill that initiates several reforms of the foreign aid system. The bill requires the president to develop and implement a strategy for global development, improves evaluation of development programs, and increases transparency of U.S. foreign aid to developing countries.
You can send a letter urging support for this bill to your representative by clicking here. The rest of the article is available in PeaceSigns.
Posted by Gabe Schlabach 
Eradicating global poverty starts with the health of the world’s poor. It starts with empowering them physically to contribute to the vitality of their countries. This benefits them as much as the rest of us, who want healthy partners with which to trade and do business. This makes as much good sense for the world’s poor as for our collective international economic growth. - Former Senator Bill Frist (MD) in a recent op-ed.
War will exist until the distant day when the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige as the warrior does today. – President John F. Kennedy
