U.S. Foreign Aid

President Biden's inauguration speech promised to “repair our alliances and engage with the world once again.” As he pursues these goals, international development aid will be a key tool. Biden's promise, however, comes in the context of the shock waves created by the COVID-19 pandemic and an American public with divergent views about the country's role in the world. Support for international development assistance has typically been bipartisan and advocates are optimistic about its future, but there are escalating needs that could compete with foreign aid for attention and dollars. In addition, development progress achieved prior to the pandemic may be set back decades by the effects of COVID-19. And critics complain about corruption and self-interest in aid programs. As Biden's team settles into the many agencies administering foreign assistance, the key questions to be answered are whether there will be a strategic alignment of aid priorities — and whether aid will get to those needing it most.