PBI UK reacts to UK Government Cuts To Foreign Aid

“We are stunned and disappointed by the UK Government's decision to slash aid in order to fund defence spending. Following in the wake of the USAID freeze, this decision will leave even more civil society organisations and human rights defenders exposed at a time of escalating global crises. Cutting UK aid means cutting support for the very initiatives that prevent conflicts, avert climate change, and help communities to live peacefully on their land, rather than have to flee. The decision to reduce spending to less than half of our legal obligations will also dent the UK's global reputation.

PBI is one of many NGOs that has long called for the UK to adjust the way in which it supports global civil society, in order to ensure it is as effective as possible. A holistic approach is needed: one of effective funding, diplomatic support, and protection for human rights defenders at risk. This would represent a cost-effective approach to building a resilient, democratic world and - in turn - underpin the UK's own growth and security.

We urge the Government to reconsider its decision and to develop a holistic approach with civil society at its core, so that UK aid and diplomacy can be as impactful as possible both now and in the future.”

PBI UK, 25 February 2025

For more information or additional comment, contact Ben Leather, PBI UK Director on benleather@peacebrigades.org.uk