Foreign Aid

[Saskwach]

Somewhat tired of xerox threads about smoking, I figured this was a new topic we'd never discussed. Foreign aid is one of those issues that many have feelings on, but no one really talks about. So what do you think? Do you think foreign aid is good, bad or neutral? Do you think some types of foreign aid do good while others do nothing? Do you think foreign aid spending is too high or too low [http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=u4pB5_0AUVk]? Do you think foreign aid shouldn't exist at all?
Please, elaborate.

 

[Good morning blues]

Foreign aid has never been done properly. It should focus on creating the infrastructure and social stability that is required for an active, healthy economy. The International Monetary Fund is not concerned with these things, and has done just as much to ruin the developing world as famine and war.

This is also a subject that most people are very ignorant about. Foreign aid spending isn't a concern - the greater flow of money comes from Africa to America in the form of interest on the "aid" (which is actually loans).

 

[vxicepickxv]

If foreign aid is being offered for a reason or purpose that makes sense and is in the interest of the world, then yes.

Examples
Providing Food for very poor countries
Disaster Relief

If it's being done with a very specific intent, or a major political/religious bias then no

Example
AIDS relief in Africa by teaching abstinence, scientifically proven not to work.


I think domestic aid is more important. I surely don't want to hear about another bridge collapsing anytime, especially not soon.

 

[Johnn Johnston]

Well, I think foreign aid is only a good thing if it is sustainable. Don't send food - send what the villagers need to grow their own food and cattle. If you send food, the farmers will lose money and the people will get used to the much-needed aid, which doesn't help anyone when it runs out.

If all aid was sustainable, and it could be distributed in a way was fair and eliminated corruption, it would be perfect.

 

[Unknower]

Former imperialist countries should give foreign aid for the "you break it, you fix it" -reason.