The UK government has announced plans to cut its international aid budget by 0.2% from 0.3% of gross national income to boost defence spending. Humanitarian charities have expressed concerns that this move could put vulnerable populations at risk and damage the UK’s global reputation.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he would increase Britain’s annual defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with a target to hit 3% at a later date. The government will use the saved funds to fund an uplift in defence spending.
Charities such as ActionAid and Oxfam have warned that this move could have devastating consequences for people affected by humanitarian crises. David Miliband, former foreign secretary, described the decision as “a blow to Britain’s proud reputation as a global humanitarian and development leader”.
The government has assured that vital programmes in Ukraine, Gaza, and Sudan will be protected. However, many programmes doing vital work may have to be put on hold due to the reduced aid budget.
The United States is also expected to make significant cuts to its foreign aid budget, with some accusing President Donald Trump of trying to “appease” him by cutting aid to its lowest level in a generation.
Humanitarian charities and Labour lawmakers have expressed concerns that this move could drive global instability and further insecurity. The UK government has defended the decision, saying it is necessary to provide Ukraine and Europe with support in “a dangerous new era”.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/charities-appalled-by-uk-cut-aid-budget-fund-defence-spending-2025-02-25