BREXIT of England and Presidential election of US have shown that nationalism wins more than international pluralism. It seems zero-sum games in places instead of win-win situations. Newly elected president Donald Trump delivered many public speeches wherein he outlined his priorities that will be implemented once he goes to the White House. In a campaign he said little about charity, "Stop sending foreign aid to countries that hate us and use that money to rebuild our tunnels, roads, bridges and schools".
The United States is considered the world's largest donor for international humanitarian and development assistance. Last year, the country pledged to offer $31.08 billion including 0.17 per cent of its gross national income. The USAID has a positive image to assist the needy countries in terms of humanitarian aid for development. Some governments [recent comments of Philippine President on US President] may dislike, but aid support helps the poor children get nutritious and continue schooling, pregnant women give safe birth etc. Obama's Power Africa Initiative provided development assistance to millions of Africans a new life and a future dream and ultimately reduces the militant threats on the globe.
If president Trump keeps half of his promises, it could pose a threat that will disrupt flow of assistance given to the vulnerable communities. This will cause a rift between the rich and the poor and would cause social unrest and destabilise the world. An instant comment of Alex Their, formerly a senior USAID official under Obama administration may be recalled, that the USAID could be abolished or diminished and folded into the Sate Department.
Mahiul Kadir
[email protected]
- Saturday, 23 November 2024 |
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