A growing chorus of criticism is targeting the German government’s recent budgetary decisions concerning humanitarian aid, with leading figures within the German Red Cross (DRK) and the Green Party parliamentary group voicing deep concerns over significant cuts to the Foreign Office’s humanitarian budget.
Christof Johnen, head of International Cooperation at the DRK, expressed his astonishment at the scale of the reductions, telling the “Rheinische Post” that the cuts are “unintelligible” given the current global crises. He particularly highlighted the disconcerting trend of Germany apparently mirroring policies adopted by the United States – a country itself facing increased scrutiny over its foreign aid strategies – and implementing drastic reductions in humanitarian assistance. Johnen is advocating for a substantial increase, pushing for annual funding to reach three billion euros.
The Green Party’s parliamentary group echoed this sentiment, with MP Jamila Schäfer condemning the government’s actions as “humanitarianly irresponsible and geopolitically short-sighted”. Schäfer argued that reducing aid at a time of escalating global instability is not only morally questionable, but also risks undermining Germany’s international standing and potentially exacerbating future crises.
The criticisms underscore a growing debate within Germany about the nation’s responsibility in offering aid to countries facing conflict, natural disasters and widespread poverty. The DRK and Green Party argue that cutting funding will ultimately increase instability and potentially necessitate even greater interventions down the line, placing a heavier burden on Germany’s resources. The current budgetary strategy appears to be prioritizing short-term savings over long-term security and humanitarian obligations, prompting a renewed call for a more robust and sustained commitment to international aid.