Why is the International Affairs Budget so important?

Just hearing the word “budget” puts some people to sleep. But a seemingly insignificant part of the U.S. Federal Budget makes a world of difference to millions of children and families around the world: the International Affairs Budget.

Just one percent

Did you know that the International Affairs Budget makes up just a little more than one percent of the U.S. Federal Budget? This one percent funds humanitarian, economic, and diplomatic initiatives… from the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) to U.S. State Department activities to many other international efforts that promote global stability and poverty reduction.

There are few parts of the U.S. Federal Budget where dollars translate so directly into lives saved. Just a few of the challenges addressed through this budget include:
• global hunger
• AIDS
• malaria
• illiteracy
• disaster response
• peacebuilding
• human and religious rights protection

The goodwill of Americans

There are many compelling reasons to keep this part of our Federal Budget strong.

First and foremost, the International Affairs Budget represents the goodwill of the American people. Americans are generous and this budget allows us to tangibly contribute a portion of our tax dollars to programs that help sustain the lives of millions of individuals. It reflects the giving nature of our Christian values and our gratefulness for the blessings we have received as a nation.

Under President Bush both PEPFAR and the Millennium Challenge Corporation were established -- programs that demonstrate America’s proud history of bringing hope to millions of people who live under oppressive poverty, face starvation, battle HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases. The Federal funds are leveraged further as they’re put to work alongside contributions from private individuals, churches and nonprofit organizations.

Last year, through the International Affairs budget:
• Some 4 million orphans and vulnerable children affected by AIDS received support
• Some 2.5 million people received AIDS treatment
• An estimated 15 million malaria bed nets were distributed

These programs help foster a healthier, more peaceful world; countless lives are saved for a very low cost.

Protecting our national and economic security

In addition to the moral element, the International Affairs budget is also critical to ensuring our national security by protecting against international threats from unstable and fragile states. Defense Secretary Gates, Admiral Mullen and many other military leaders across the political spectrum have called for increasing the International Affairs Budget as an essential component of our national security.

And lastly, the International Affairs Budget is a fundamental tool for advancing U.S. economic and strategic interests around the world. Programs in this budget build markets for U.S. exports and promote good governance practices that strengthen democracies.

Lives are at stake

For just one percent, America can and does contribute to the well-being of millions of children and families on the brink of poverty. It’s crucial that this small but significant part of our Federal Budget continue to receive the support of the American public.

Tell your members of Congress that you value the critical programs funded by this budget, and therefore we must not shrink back from fully funding our promises to the world’s most vulnerable people… even when times are tough in our own country. It’s the American thing to do!