President Obama releases budget outline: Pledge to increase foreign assistance
February 26, 2009

“The Administration is committed to placing the nation on a path to double foreign assistance to $50 billion. Doing so, the United States will reach out to the global community, lay the groundwork for stability and security at home and abroad, and strengthen its role as a leader in global development and diplomacy.”
-President Obama’s budget outline, February 26, 2009

IGD applauds President Obama for his continued commitment to improving U.S. leadership in global development as shown in his outline for the FY2010 International Affairs Budget.

With the effects of the global economic crisis weighing heavily on those in the poorest countries, it is crucial that the United States’ commitment to foreign assistance not waver. IGD commends President Obama for re-iterating his campaign pledge to work toward doubling foreign assistance and highlighting the critical role of global development in U.S. foreign policy. In addition, the President’s budget proposes restructuring the current system of U.S. agricultural programs. These changes, if coupled with greater and more effective assistance, would help small farmers and emerging agribusinesses participate in local, national and international markets, boosting growth and incomes for poor people.