The study, published in the journal “Science,” analyzed 870 regions in Africa and linked data on development aid disbursements to incidents of violence. The results indicate that areas previously heavily supported by USAID experienced an increase in violence. This includes both the frequency and severity of incidents such as armed conflicts and protests.
Dominic Rohner, an economist at the Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies in Geneva, stated: “Both the frequency and severity of incidents were affected.” The negative consequences were immediate and persisted for several months. Weak governmental institutions exacerbated the effects of the cuts.
The relationship between development aid and conflicts has long been contentious. Axel Dreher from Heidelberg University commented that the study should not be interpreted as evidence that more aid inherently reduces conflicts. Rather, it demonstrates the impact of a sudden halt in aid.
Development expert Nathaniel Raymond from the Yale School of Public Health, who was not involved in the study, pointed out that the findings highlight the long-term consequences of funding cuts. An abrupt withdrawal of support not only leads to a loss of resources but also results in a standstill in contracts and personnel planning.
S. development aid on the humanitarian situation in Ukraine.
