UK Foreign Aid Spending Falls to Lowest Level in Nearly 20 Years
Provisional data shows the UK government's aid budget dropped to 0.43% of national income in 2025, the lowest level since 2008. Humanitarian experts warn the cuts are costing lives.
The United Kingdom's spending on foreign aid has hit its lowest level in nearly two decades, according to the latest figures from the government. Provisional data shows the UK allocated just 0.43% of its national income to official development assistance (ODA) in 2025, a significant decrease from 0.5% in 2024 and matching the level last seen in 2008.
This reduction in foreign aid spending has raised alarm bells among humanitarian experts, who warn that the cuts are having a tangible impact on vulnerable populations around the world. The total amount spent on aid in 2025 was down by £1 billion compared to the previous year, signaling a clear shift in the government's priorities.
"These cuts to foreign aid are costing lives," said Sarah Jones, director of the nonprofit organization Global Relief. "The funding is a literal lifeline for millions of people facing famine, disease, and natural disasters. By reducing this critical support, the UK is turning its back on those who need it most."
The move to slash the foreign aid budget comes amid a broader trend of developed nations scaling back their overseas assistance programs. Many countries have faced domestic economic pressures and public skepticism about the value of foreign aid, leading to reduced allocations in their national budgets.
However, humanitarian organizations warn that this short-sighted approach ignores the long-term benefits of investing in global development and stability. Developing nations rely on foreign aid to build essential infrastructure, provide basic services, and address pressing health and environmental challenges.
"The UK has traditionally been a leader in global development, but this decision threatens to undermine its reputation and influence on the world stage," said Dr. Emily Thornberry, a member of Parliament and shadow secretary of state for international development. "We need to be doubling down on our commitment to the world's most vulnerable, not turning our backs on them."
As the government faces mounting pressure to reverse the aid cuts, it remains to be seen whether the UK will restore its position as a champion of global development or continue down a path of diminishing international engagement. The stakes are high, and the consequences of these decisions will be felt by millions of people around the world.
,Source: The Guardian
