Government Funding for Faith‐Based International Development: Empirical Evidence from a U.S. Survey

Abstract

In a move that some equate with a “turn to religion,” state, regional, and international donors now all seek to partner with religious organizations to deliver international humanitarian aid. Evidence indicates, however, that this invitation is not always accepted. The United States serves as a prominent example. Although the United States went so far as to establish an office in USAID to facilitate coordination with faith‐based organizations in 2002, the number of religious organizations receiving USAID funds remains low. My research suggests that this is also true of faith‐based aid applications. An online survey of over 400 U.S.‐based nonprofits with international operations reveals that perceptions of government bias likely deter many religious NGOs in the United States from applying for government funds. While this explanation may be unique to the United States, it may also provide a testable hypothesis to scholars studying similar dynamics in other donor countries and organizations.Related ArticlesByrne, Jennifer, and Gregory C. Dixon. 2013. “Reevaluating American Attitudes toward Immigrants in the Twenty‐First Century: The Role of a Multicreedal National Identity.” Politics & Policy 41 (1): 83‐116. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12002Dobransky, Steve. 2014. “Violators amongst Us: International Regimes and the Role of Compliance, a Case Study on Official Development Assistance.” Politics & Policy 42 (4): 593‐634. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12082Persons, Georgia A. 2011. “Administrative Policy Initiatives and the Limits of Change: Lessons from the Implementation of the Bush Faith‐Based and Community Initiative.” Politics & Policy 39 (6): 949‐978. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00332.x