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A reader writes: “If even one U.S. person is unhoused, one child is hungry, one senior can’t afford their medicine, then all foreign aid must stop” (“U.S. funds must take care of our people,” Star-Advertiser, Letters, March Opens in a new tab9) Opens in a new tab. This presents a myopic view of history and encourages a diminished role of America in world affairs, jeopardizing America’s moral standing and world peace.
The Marshall Plan was the beginning of modern U.S. foreign aid, which was used to rebuild a war-torn Europe in 1948. During the Cold War, foreign aid was used to contain communism. After Sept. 11, 2001, foreign aid also focused on combating terrorism.
Foreign aid — flawed as it may be — directly benefits America, increasing markets for American products and avoiding military intervention. America should continue to reduce poverty at home and abroad. This is the morally and economically sound policy. The efforts, domestic and foreign, will never be perfect. A great country can afford both.
John Keiser
Makiki
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