Radio Schuman Is Europe cutting back on humanitarian aid to appease the far right ?
Feb 19, 2025
Abriel Schieffelers, a humanitarian advocacy officer at Caritas Europe, discusses the alarming trend of European countries slashing foreign aid amid far-right political movements. He highlights how nations like Sweden and Finland redirect funds away from humanitarian efforts towards deportation initiatives. Schieffelers elaborates on the EU’s shift toward investments that prioritize its own agenda, stressing its detrimental impact on global humanitarian responses. The conversation also touches on the critical humanitarian needs in Ukraine and the risks posed by funding freezes.
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European Aid Cuts
- Major European countries are cutting foreign aid budgets, following a global trend.
- This is happening amidst pressure from far-right parties and a shift in EU priorities.
Caritas Impacted by Aid Cuts
- Caritas Europe is facing significant impacts from USAID funding cuts, including staff layoffs.
- Local organizations, heavily reliant on USAID, are hardest hit, losing up to 90% of their funding.
Shifting Priorities in Aid
- Many European countries are decreasing foreign aid funding, mirroring a concerning global trend.
- The EU's Global Gateway program prioritizes investments benefiting the bloc, potentially sidelining development needs.