When funding to support vulnerable countries is withdrawn, the risk of war and global destabilisation increasesNational defence and international development are two sides of the same coin. Our long-term security requires us to invest in both. European nations need to fill any vacuum left by America’s new administration as we ensure there can be no victory for Vladimir Putin in Ukraine and Donald Trump’s decision to shut down USAid.Before being elected as an MP, I lived in Kenya and saw the vital work done by local charities that help families of children growing up in informal settlements on the outskirts of Nairobi. I met teenagers working on social media projects to tackle disinformation and prevent post-election violence. And I talked to women about the ever-present threat of rape and sexual violence. Continue reading...
Emily Darlington argues that international aid is as crucial to British security as defense spending, with both being interconnected. Cutting either undermines national security, as aid withdrawal can destabilize vulnerable countries, fostering terrorism and conflict. She highlights the exploitation by China and Russia in such situations, threatening global stability. Darlington advocates for increased defense spending and sustained aid to prevent conflicts and support global security. She also emphasizes the importance of international partnerships to address climate change and prevent asylum seeker influxes into the UK.
