Misereor Condemns Global Development Aid Cuts
The Catholic aid organization Misereor has strongly criticized the worldwide reduction of development funds, expressing concern over the potential impact on global progress. Speaking at the organization’s annual press conference in Berlin on Wednesday, Misereor’s Managing Director Andreas Frick emphasized the demonstrable successes of development cooperation, both governmental and non-governmental. However, he warned that these achievements are now threatened in numerous regions.
Frick specifically highlighted the implications of recent developments in US policy under President Donald Trump, stating they represent a significant turning point for international development efforts. These changes, he argued, challenge established frameworks for peace, reconciliation, trust and security, creating new obstacles. International aid organizations estimate that a potential $44 billion reduction in funding for poverty alleviation could occur next year if announced cuts are implemented.
Frick further cautioned that planned reductions by the new German government, as outlined in the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) budget and humanitarian aid, would have severe consequences. He urged the government to reconsider these proposed cuts, emphasizing Germany’s responsibility to uphold humanitarian principles during a critical time. Germany remains a leading provider of development aid and Frick stressed the importance of proactively embracing and shaping this role, arguing it is ultimately in Germany’s own interest.