Foreign Aid Research Articles

Guiding Principles for Department of Defense Global Health Engagements.

Within the past decade, the U.S. DoD has increased spending on global health engagements (GHEs). Not only do these increased efforts strengthen national security but they also fortify the United States' diplomatic relations with foreign governments through medical stability operations and health diplomacy. Maximizing health care-related programs will bolster a partner government's ability to maintain secure borders and prevent conflict while depriving extremists of safe havens. Looking beyond the short-term benefits, the long-term effects of GHEs are not limited to a nation's borders; aid permeates into a society providing social and economic opportunities otherwise unobtainable to the community and effectively winning the hearts and minds of the population. Although the DoD does list policies and procedures in which to conduct GHEs, the proposed set of principles can further prevent conflicts, deliver better foreign humanitarian assistance, and develop a better health care partnership centered around the host nation.

Sociopolitical, clinical, and ethical challenges of sustainable fracture care in Haiti.

In low- and middle-income countries such as Haiti, musculoskeletal injuries are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Untreated injuries can contribute to decreased mobility, leading to disability and reduced productivity for individuals. The accessibility of timely fracture care poses a substantial challenge in Haiti, where socioeconomic instability and recent surges in gang violence exacerbate an already strained healthcare infrastructure. This manuscript delves into the intricate barriers to sustainable fracture care in Haiti, shedding light on the sociopolitical landscape and clinical challenges that influence the delivery of orthopedic services. The ethical considerations in providing fracture care in Haiti are multifaceted, including classic medical principles, self-preservation in the face of violence, issues of justice in resource and service allocation, and concerns of nonmaleficence in the context of international volunteers. These ethical dilemmas arise from the complex interplay of limited resources, the dangers posed by the current sociopolitical climate, and the involvement of international aid in a vulnerable healthcare system. To address the clinical and ethical conflicts of providing fracture care in Haiti, solutions include education and training of Haitian orthopedic surgeons, capacity building of healthcare facilities, and establishing ethical standards for international volunteers. This comprehensive approach is vital for advancing sustainable fracture care in Haiti and other resource-limited settings.

When in Debt, Appoint Women? A Re-Examination of Aid, Debt, and the Inclusion of Women in African Cabinets

Abstract Are more aid-dependent and indebted countries more likely to include women in their cabinets? Several studies have suggested that such countries seek to please donors and lenders. Focusing on Africa, we test whether leaders respond to international incentives and, specifically, signal donors and lenders that they value gender equality in political decision-making. Although leaders have more direct control over the gender composition of the cabinet than the legislature, our analyses do not show that aid dependence and indebtedness result in more women in either the cabinet or the legislature. We operationalize aid dependence and indebtedness as a proportion of recipient gross national income, which we argue better reflects the aid and loan recipients’ vulnerability to external pressure. Using regression analysis techniques and multiple robustness checks to evaluate our panel data, our findings remain consistent with arguments that African states have stronger bargaining positions than the foreign aid literature has acknowledged.

THE UN ACTIVITIES ON FACILITATING THE APPLICATION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY FOR THE PURPOSES OF DEVELOPMENT IN THE 1990S

In the early 3rd decade in the 21st century, the information and communications technology (hereinafter referred to as ICT) is regarded as an inalienable factor of the international development. This article presents the analysis of the events related to the outset of the UN involvement in this factor promotion at the turn of the 1980s and further until the late 90s. It marks out the most important measures initiated at the UN main and subsidiary bodies aiming at the ICT study as a development factor and the international community’s political will mobilisation on the ICT’s broadest possible adoption and application. Within the period under consideration, three stages marking the expansion of the UN involvement in the ICT issues, from attracting general attention to their importance in the development towards the drafting of recommendations for the international community on bridging the digital divide, are proposed by us. The article finds out that these recommendations just as other UN activities in the development field worked in favour of the globalisation and evidently reflected the neoliberal paradigm. However, in the meantime they counterbalanced market fundamentalists and provided the grounds for the need of planning the international aid for developing nations and guaranteeing social focus in the national ICT policies.

Rethinking food aid for immigrants and refugees: Insights from Syracuse

AbstractMotivationFood security is a multidimensional issue, crucially underpinned by cultural acceptability, which significantly affects emotional well‐being and social integration. This study was motivated by the persistent challenge faced by refugee and immigrant communities in accessing culturally appropriate food, a critical aspect often overlooked by food assistance programmes. This gap both hinders nutritional intake and impedes the emotional and social well‐being of these vulnerable populations.PurposeThis study aimed to explore the alignment between the cultural dietary preferences of refugee and immigrant communities in Syracuse, New York, and the offerings of local food aid programmes, specifically focusing on culturally appropriate fresh produce. It sought to understand the extent to which food assistance meets the cultural needs of these communities, thereby informing potential improvements in food security practices and policy.Approach and MethodsUsing a mixed‐methods approach, the study collected quantitative and qualitative data. Surveys were conducted with 35 refugee and immigrant women to quantitatively assess the availability and suitability of culturally specific food items within local food bank programmes. In addition, qualitative insights were derived through focus group discussions with eight of these participants. This dual‐method approach allowed for a comprehensive evaluation of both perceived and actual gaps in service provision.FindingsThe findings highlighted a significant gap between the fresh produce provided by the food assistance programmes and the cultural dietary needs of the participants. Although these programmes provide essential nutrition, they often neglect to accommodate the cultural preferences of diverse communities. This emphasizes the urgent need for food aid initiatives to integrate cultural preferences, enhancing the acceptability of food aid and supporting the psychological adjustment of refugees and immigrants to new environments.Policy ImplicationsThis study underscored the need for policy‐makers and food assistance programmes to prioritize cultural appropriateness alongside nutritional adequacy. It recommended the adoption of more inclusive food distribution practices that recognize and respect the cultural diversity of beneficiaries. Such practices are crucial, not only for improving the nutritional and psychological outcomes of refugees and immigrants but also for fostering their integration and participation in the community. Establishing policies that encourage the inclusion of culturally diverse food options can significantly enhance the effectiveness of food security efforts.

Demographic Consequences of Major Wars

This article investigates the demographic consequences of major wars and the determinants of post-war demographic recovery, analyzing severe conflicts from 1914 to 2010 in countries across various development levels and war types. Through an empirical evaluation of demographic recovery following major wars, this paper explores how several important factors, including political capacity, foreign aid, and human capital, influence recovery patterns in societies that have experienced these conflicts. The analysis suggests that populations tend to recover to pre-war levels within a generation, often exceeding them due to significant post-war baby booms. Political capacity appears to be associated with faster recovery, while the impact of foreign aid and human capital varies across different economic contexts. The research employs a large N time-series cross-section analysis, offering a comprehensive exploration of the dynamics involved in post-war demographic recovery. The results highlight the complex relationship between political, economic, and social factors, providing a valuable foundation for future research. By integrating insights from political demography, international relations, and population studies, these findings can guide the development of new theories and models to better understand the mechanisms of post-conflict recovery. Ultimately, this research aims to inform more effective strategies and policies for post-conflict reconstruction and development, promoting sustainable peace and stability in war-affected regions.

Does Foreign Aid Affect the Economic Growth in Sub-Saharan African Countries?

This study investigates the relationship between foreign aid and economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa using a panel ARDL model. Data from 15 selected countries over 20 years (2002–2021) were analyzed. Findings show that institutional quality and unemployment rate are significant in the short-run (mean group (MG) estimation). In the long-run (dynamic fixed effects (DFE) model), variables such as trade openness, exchange rate, population growth, unemployment rate, institutional quality, consumption expenditure, official development assistance, and aid square significantly affect economic growth. Recommendations include strengthening institutions, promoting trade openness, addressing unemployment through skill development, maintaining price stability, and improving development assistance transparency.

Is in-kind kinder than cash? The impact of money vs. food aid on social emotions and aid take-up

Over the past decade, there has been a shift in the way charities deliver humanitarian aid. Historically, the most prevalent way to help the global poor was by providing in-kind asset transfers. Recently, alternatives to in-kind aid, such as cash aid, have been increasing in prevalence. Although there has been widespread endorsement from the academic community and the public on the popularizing model of giving cash aid, one perspective remains untouched: the recipient's perspective. Thus, the present research explores how food-insecure individuals feel when receiving money vs. in-kind food aid to help meet their hunger and nutrition needs. Specifically, we explore the degree of positive (e.g., feeling cared for) and negative (e.g., feeling ashamed) social emotions felt when receiving the aid opportunity and how willing recipients are to accept monetary (vs. food) aid. Results from five preregistered experiments (N = 3,110)-a field experiment in Kenya and four online experiments in the United States-find that monetary (vs. food) aid elicits comparatively more of a market-pricing relationship and less of a communal sharing relationship and, hence, makes people feel less positive and more negative social emotions when receiving the help. Subsequently, recipients are less likely to take up monetary (vs. food) aid from a charity. However, we find that this effect does not persist when receiving government aid: Recipients are similarly willing to accept money and in-kind food aid from the government. This research suggests that future scholarship ought to examine ways to improve psychological experiences when receiving money from charity.

Economic Growth through Rent Streams, Financial Development and Institutional Quality in Mena

This study examines the relationships between natural rent streams, financial development, institutional quality, and economic growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and is the development of fixed effects panel models during 1990–2020. The analysis of the MENA region sheds light on the complex, dynamic nature of the region’s economies and societies, as this region is an interesting case study where economic, political and cultural dynamics are diverse. The region faces economic diversification needs, conflicts, migration, and climate change, making this study timely and relevant. To this end, fixed effects regressions and scenario approaches were applied to the collected panel data. The findings reveal natural resource rents as the primary driver of economic growth, their effectiveness dependent on financial development and institutional quality levels. A well-developed financial sector facilitates efficient channeling of rents into productive investments, while strong institutions mitigate resource curse effects. In contrast, while remittances and foreign aid do not directly impact growth, their effectiveness is enhanced by financial development and institutional frameworks. The results highlight the critical roles of financial sector development, institutional quality, and robust governance in shaping the impacts of resource rents in this resource-rich region. The policy recommendations emphasize strategies for managing resource wealth, strengthening financial systems, promoting inclusion, improving institutions, and fostering an enabling environment for remittances and foreign aid to promote sustainable economic growth.

Uncovering the chain of corruption: A Case Study in Bangladesh

Government officials are responsible to the people because they are paid for their services by the fund of the country which is collected from people. They got extra facilities as the government officials but people see them as the oppressors while taking public services. Their offensive behavior hurts the common people who do not have extra money paid for services. This study attempts to make the people aware, conscious, responsible, accountable, and transparent to government officials. The study titled "Uncovering the Chain of Corruption: A Case Study in Bangladesh" delves into the intricate web of corruption within Bangladesh, highlighting systemic issues and identifying key actors involved. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both qualitative interviews and quantitative data analysis, to provide a comprehensive examination of corruption at various levels of governance and society. Findings reveal that corruption in Bangladesh is deeply entrenched, facilitated by a nexus of political patronage, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and socio-economic disparities. The case study uncovers how corruption manifests in public procurement, law enforcement, and the judiciary, perpetuating a cycle of impunity and public mistrust which is conducted at Bangladesh Road Transport Authority in Rajshahi Zone. Furthermore, the study explores the socio-cultural dimensions that normalize corrupt practices and examines the role of international aid and non-governmental organizations in both exacerbating and combating corruption. Recommendations emphasize the need for robust legal frameworks, greater transparency, and public accountability mechanisms, alongside fostering a culture of integrity and ethical governance. This study contributes to the broader discourse on anti-corruption strategies, offering insights that are crucial for policymakers, stakeholders, and scholars aiming to address corruption in developing countries.

Impulse Response of External Debt Stock and Gross Capital Formation on Economic Growth in Bangladesh: Var Model, Granger Causality and Variance Decomposition Analysis

Purpose: This study employs an annual time series data set from 1987 to 2018 gathered from the World Development Indicators (WDI), 2021 to analyze the properties of external debt stock on financial progress(proxied by economic growth) in Bangladesh. Methodology: The objectives are determined using a variety of econometric techniques, including the Phillips-Perron (PP) unit root test, Var model, Johansen co integration test, Impulse Response Function (IRF), Variance decomposition function, and Granger causality test. The get the result of the Phillips-Perron (PP) unit root test which indicates the stationarity of all the variables at the initial difference. Findings: There is an expectant impact on financial progress (proxied by Gross Domestic Product Per capita) in Bangladesh, according to the short run Var model with the two independent variables External Debt Stock (proxied by public debt) and second lag of Gross Fixed Capital. Block Exogeneity/ Wald Tests and Johansen Co-integration test show that both lnEDS and lnGCF have a strong constructive impact on Bangladesh's financial progress in the short as well as long run. Pairwise, Granger Causality also indulgence the Bi-directional causality between lnGDPPC and lnEDS and Uni-directional causality from lnGCF to lnGDPPC. The influences of lnEDS and lnGCF on lnGDPPC are rising in the long term, showing that both variables are significantly exogenous on the dependent variable. Practical Implication: Bangladesh is now a fast-growing economy with several mega projects for infrastructural, human, and technological advancements such as roads, train, power, education, health, information technology, gas, and energy. External debt service and gross capital formation are crucial for Bangladeshi economic growth. The government should establish a priority aim for long-term economic growth by implementing suitable measures to control, maintain, regulate, and stabilize inflation at a reasonable level. Originality/Value: In a developing country, Savings within the country are insufficient to support investment for financial progress, according to the dual-gap theory and the Keynesian theory of public debt. As a result, bridging this gap for the required level of investment and achieving targeted economic growth will necessitate a bigger inflow of foreign aid or external borrowings. That’s why this study is very important. Limitations: Some limitations of this study include the absence of recent data with the factors. Also numerous factors can influence Bangladesh economic growth for instances, remittances, exchange rates and foreign direct investment all have a crucial impact on GDP growth.

The spatial impact of international reconstruction aid in the aftermath of the 2015 Gorkha earthquake

The 2015 Gorkha earthquake in Nepal caused significant property and life loss, triggering a large influx of international reconstruction aid. This paper investigates the spatial implications of this international aid, particularly in Lalitpur. It examines how aid from NGOs and bilateral and multilateral agencies affects urban spaces, including rent, land values, and infrastructure distribution. The study focuses on Wards hosting aid projects and personnel and compares these to earthquake-affected Wards without aid presence as a counterfactual.Two key points emerge: 1) The clustering of aid organization headquarters (operational presence) creates negative externalities, favoring a rentier class over equitable distribution of housing and infrastructure. 2) Aid-funded reconstruction projects (project presence) shift amenities and businesses, accelerating inequity in ways distinct from operational presence. Two Wards in Lalitpur show notable negative impacts, including rising rents, changes in small businesses, and a shift towards catering to the rentier class due to the effects of aid.The research provides policy recommendations for local governments and disaster management authorities in Nepal to address these unequal impacts. Recommendations include monitoring and evaluating aid effects over time, collaboration, and the promotion of transparency in urban development and fiscal resilience.

Unlocking the impact of international financial support to infrastructure, energy efficiency, and ICT on CO2 emissions in India

Financial resource constraints prevent developing nations from investing in the infrastructure needed for the green transition. For this reason, it is well known that numerous financial aid programs are offered globally, mainly to wealthy developing nations whose economies are predicated on high energy consumption. It hasn't been looked into if these resources are allocated to worthwhile projects. This study examines how foreign financial assistance in this area affects India's infrastructure emissions. The effects of natural resources, economic growth, information and communication technology, energy efficiency (oil and gas), and natural resources on the environment are being investigated as well. The novel multivariate quantile on-quantile regression technique is used in this context to examine a time-series data set spanning 2000–2021. According to the findings, there is a correlation between reduced carbon emissions and increased foreign financial aid. Likewise, advancements in energy efficiency and information and communication technologies also benefit the ecosystem. However, India's emissions are rising due to its abundant natural resources and economic expansion. Policy recommendations were made regarding the need for India to use international financial aid primarily to strengthen environmentally friendly infrastructure rather than solving problems such as current account deficit or budget deficit.

International Humanitarian Assistance for Health: Türkiye’s Health Diplomacy Practices during the Covid-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 has significantly impacted the health systems of developed countries, leading to a surge in the demand for medical supplies and equipment. This study is dedicated to shedding light on Türkiye's health diplomacy practices and its pivotal role as a facilitator in addressing the escalating global humanitarian and medical aid demand for medical equipment, supplies, medicines, and vaccines due to COVID-19. The study employs the PRISMA systematic analysis method as a data collection protocol to scrutinize Türkiye's international humanitarian and medical assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of health diplomacy practices. The study's findings, which are categorized under four headings: international humanitarian aid based on COVID-19, international medical equipment and supplies, international ventilator aid, and Türkiye's international COVID-19 vaccine aid, reveal that Türkiye has extended a broad spectrum of medical aid and support, including ventilators, vaccines, and medical equipment, to 161 countries across five continents, demonstrating its global reach and impact. Furthermore, as a testament to its “entrepreneurial and humanitarian foreign policy,” Türkiye has underscored regional and international cooperation through its medical and humanitarian endeavors. Türkiye's international humanitarian assistance has gone beyond material aid to encourage dialogue and has been a message of international solidarity for communities. In future research, establishing a connection between Türkiye's regional and international medical assistance and tangible political, social, and economic outcomes will validate the impact and benefits of its humanitarian efforts.

The unmet demand of food security in East Africa: review of the triple challenges of climate change, economic crises, and conflicts

East Africa struggles with a profound challenge in ensuring food security amidst the convergence of climate change, economic crises, and conflicts. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the interconnected and compounding effects of these three factors on the region’s food security landscape. It investigates the complex ways in which shifting climatic patterns disrupt agricultural systems, exacerbating food scarcity and amplifying vulnerabilities among marginalized communities. The study also examines the intertwined impact of economic downturns, which diminish access to resources, disrupt supply chains, and deepen food insecurity. Furthermore, the paper scrutinizes the ramifications of persistent conflicts, which not only displace populations but also destabilize agricultural production, aggravating food shortages. To achieve the objective of this, review the authors have collected the relevant documents through search engines of Web of Science, Google, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Science Direct databases. This review found that climate change, economic instability, and conflict are the primary challenges to food security in East Africa. Climate change exacerbates extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and pest infestations, reducing agricultural productivity and economic growth. Economic instability stems from a lack of industrialization, dependence on foreign aid, and significant investment gaps, resulting in persistent poverty and underdevelopment. Additionally, conflict and instability disrupt agricultural activities, displace populations, and restrict access to essential resources, further aggravating food insecurity. The study emphasizes the necessity for coordinated efforts among governments, international organizations, and local communities to navigate these intersecting crises and establish sustainable pathways toward enhanced food security in the region.

Strategic narrative in Ukraine

This study analyzes the strategic use of narratives as a crucial factor that enabled Ukraine to effectively counter Russia’s aggression during the 2022 Russo-Ukrainian War, supported by the international community. The research focuses on the central theme of “democratic values and identity” within Ukraine’s narrative, exploring how this narrative was crafted and how it garnered acceptance and backing from international actors. Building on existing discussions on strategic narratives, this study theoretically examines the processes of narrative formation, acceptance by actors, and the building of solidarity. Furthermore, it presents an analytical framework to explain the significance of the “democratic values and identity” message, and how it is effectively conveyed to various actors. In the current conflict, Ukraine has projected a strategic narrative centered on “democratic values and identity,”which has reinforced solidarity among both state and non-state actors, enabling a sustained conflict with Russia. State actors have supported Ukraine’s war efforts through military, economic, and humanitarian aid, while non-state actors, including individuals, organizations, corporations, and international institutions, have contributed by amplifying narratives on social media, engaging in proxy warfare in cyberspace, providing internet services and aid, and shaping the strategic environment through international norms. This study suggests that narratives can be strategically constructed and utilized as non-military means to achieve national objectives.

Foreign Aid, Economic Growth, and Poverty Reduction in Bolivia

ABSTRACT: Foreign aid has been a critical instrument in addressing economic development and poverty reduction in many low-income countries. This article investigates the relationship between foreign aid, economic growth, and poverty reduction in Bolivia, shedding light on how various factors, including institutional quality, human capital, economic freedom, and the level of democracy influence the effectiveness of foreign aid. Employing smooth transition autoregressive models, the analysis highlights the intricate interplay between foreign aid, economic growth, and poverty reduction. The empirical findings provide evidence that foreign aid exerts a positive influence on both economic growth and poverty reduction, especially when aligned with investments in human capital and the enhancement of economic freedom. However, the revelations brought forth by this study challenge the conventional wisdom, revealing that these relationships are not linear. In emphasizing the nuanced nature of aid’s impact on economic development and poverty reduction, this study contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on foreign aid efficacy. It underscores the importance of tailoring aid interventions to the specific contextual intricacies of the recipient country. The interplay between foreign aid, institutional quality, human capital, economic freedom, and democratic governance makes clear that a tailored, context-specific approach is needed for foreign aid to have the best possible impact. If the case of Bolivia serves as a useful example for other developing nations, the principal recommendation emanating from these findings is that foreign aid must be carefully tailored to the unique needs and challenges of the recipient nation. A one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient in harnessing aid’s full potential to foster sustainable economic growth and meaningful poverty reduction. The findings presented here serve not only as a contribution to the academic literature but also as a roadmap for policymakers and development practitioners navigating the complex terrain of foreign aid. By emphasizing the intricate dynamics of foreign aid and other important institutional, economic, and human capital factors, the empirical findings in this article advance the understanding of foreign aid’s role as a catalyst for transformative change and set the stage for more targeted, effective interventions in the pursuit of economic development and poverty eradication.

An Analysis of Foreign Capital Inflows, Institutional Quality and Economic Performance in SAARC Countries

This paper is interested in seeing and exploring the relationship between foreign capital inflows, the quality of domestic institutions, and economic performance. The paper focuses on SAARC economies and utilizes data from 1996-2020. Our results show that foreign aid and economic growth of SAARC countries were positive results from all four techniques we used in our study. For imports, we got positive results in pooled least squares, whereas we got a negative impact of imports on the economic growth of SAARC countries in the other three techniques. We got the negative and insignificant impact of FDI in pooled least squares and generalized least squares, whereas we got the positive and significant impact of FDI in two stages of least squares. We learned about the negative and significant effects of debt on the economic growth of SAARC countries through all four techniques we have used. Regarding remittances, we got mixed results. Regarding institutions, we got institutions' negative and considerable impact on the economic development of SAARC countries in all specifications. Our results have important policy implications for SAARC economies.

Foreign Capital Inflows and Financial Development in Pakistan: A Linear and Nonlinear ARDL Analysis

Foreign capital inflows play a significant role in sustainable development of financial sector of any country. This study investigates the impact of foreign capital inflows (including remittances, foreign direct investment (FDI), foreign aid, and external debt) on the financial development of Pakistan. For empirical analysis, this study used linear and nonlinear autoregressive distribution lags (ARDL) techniques with time series data from 1972 to 2022. Findings reveal that FDI, workers’ remittances, and foreign aid support financial development, whereas external debt negatively impacts financial development. Moreover, there appear to be asymmetrical effects of FDI and external debt on the financial development in the long run which reduces to a nonlinear FDI-finance relationship in the short run. The outcomes of this study imply policies that encourage networks for FDI and remittances while discouraging external debt inflows to stabilize the financial sector.

THE IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL AID AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT ON ECONOMIC GROWTH IN UKRAINE

In wartime, the role of international assistance and foreign direct investment in ensuring Ukraine’s economic sustainability has increased. The study examines foreign direct investment (FDI) and international financial assistance as key factors contributing to economic growth. The structure and dynamics of international aid in Ukraine are reviewed. A regression analysis was conducted to determine the impact of international aid (particularly, international development assistance) and FDI on the gross domestic product of Ukraine. The results of the study show a positive impact of both performance parameters, while their values are significant and significantly higher than zero. However, FDI flows have a greater impact on GDP than international development assistance. This suggests that international aid is important for maintaining stability, while FDI has a more significant long-term impact on Ukraine’s economic development, especially in the context of integration into the global economy and attracting innovation.