Letter: The truth about global poverty

Ask most Americans how much the national government spends on foreign aid. The most frequent response is 25% of the federal budget, but the U.S. spends less than 1%. It is easy to forget about the poor and their living conditions when it seems like we are so far removed from them. We are more interconnected than we think.

A common argument against foreign aid is that we have so many issues here at home, but they are not competing interests. In fact, reducing global poverty bolsters the U.S. economy and creates U.S. jobs by expanding the consumer market to the 95% of consumers living outside of the U.S.

A great example of return on the investment in foreign aid is Mexico. Between 1960 and 2005, the U.S. gave $1.7 billion. Today, the U.S. earns $265 billion in exports to Mexico.

Additionally, the world's most dangerous countries are among the poorest. Decreasing global poverty strengthens national security by stabilizing living conditions and governments. In 2019, over 140 retired 3- and 4-star generals called on Congress to increase funding for the International Affairs Budget.

Another common myth is that saving lives results in overpopulation. On the contrary, when mothers know their child will survive, they are less likely to have more children.

What can you do to help? Head over to The Borgen Project to learn more about global poverty and bust those myths. Take the extra step by emailing Congress on an issue that matters to you.

Mia Hackett

Elmhurst