While the effectiveness of foreign aid remains up for debate, the United States recently has continued to pump around $36 billion in aid to other countries each year.  With the presidential election around the corner, Devex has a very good article on the differences of Democrats and Republicans on US Foreign Aid.

The Republican camp:

• U.S. foreign aid should serve U.S. national interests and also be based on the principles of the Millennium Challenge Corp.  Very close to Pres. Bush’s foreign policy of the early 2000’s.
• Spending would be limited.The global gag rule would be reinstated.
• Continued support for PEPFAR.
• Streamline U.S. food aid programming.
• Climate Change: absolutely not on the agenda.
• Focus on faith-based groups, not LGBT support.

The Democratic camp:

• Promote global development remains in the U.S. national interest.
• Postponed the $50 billion target but continue to increase foreign aid funds.
• Support family planning.
• Support PEPFAR and other health initiatives.
• Continue Feed the Future initiative.
• Continue support on global response to climate change.
• Promote gay rights worldwide.

Of course in the aftermath of the election, the current support for foreign aid could change: budgetary pressures, VP influences (Ryan) and future international crises all play a part.

From Devex: “Where they stand: Democrats and Republicans on U.S. foreign aid”. By Lorenzo Piccio on 10 September 2012