Fairtrade is deeply concerned about the UK Government’s announcement of cuts to Official Development Assistance (ODA) with immediate effect, with a view to reducing it to 0.3% of gross national income (GNI) by 2027. We urge the Government to maintain the ODA budget at 0.5% of GNI over the next two years and to honour its climate funding commitments.
Our food security depends on the wellbeing and sustainable farming practices of smallholder farmers and agricultural workers in low-income countries, which are often supported by UK aid programmes. Given the scale of the challenges we face at Fairtrade, like rising costs to unstable markets, we champion a ‘trade plus aid’ approach. Aid is essential for addressing the causes of poverty and exploitation, that are at the root of human rights abuses and environmental harms. Without it, those farmers and agricultural workers who are most in need will struggle to make a living and support their families.
Restoring the aid budget is also a critical step in honouring the UK’s International Climate Finance (UKICF) commitments. Climate finance must support those most vulnerable to climate impacts, ensuring that smallholder farmers and agricultural workers can adapt and transition to more sustainable and resilient practices.
At a time of global challenges, the UK should lead international aid. We call on the government to restore aid funding now.