LGBTQ+ rights charity Stonewall has responded to the news that Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government will be slashing the UK’s foreign aid budget, saying it “risks further destabilising communities and groups that are often already on the periphery”.
The move by the Labour government, which came just two days before the prime minister was due to meet Donald Trump, will see the foreign aid budget slashed to 0.3% of gross national income in order to fund defence spending.
Responding to the announcement from the Prime Minister that the international aid budget will be cut, Stonewall CEO, Simon Blake, said: “In these turbulent times, it is deeply concerning that the UK Government has chosen to cut its aid budget. Aid plays a vital role in making a safer and more equal world for all and has long been one of the most effective ways to build long-term prosperous and peaceful societies, including for LGBTQ+ people. Globally, the UK once led in its commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, and UK aid has always played an important part in supporting marginalised groups facing inequality and persecution.
“While we appreciate the economic challenges faced by the Government, reducing aid support risks further destabilising communities and groups that are often already on the periphery. Stonewall works with a range of global partners and communities who have always been reassured by the UK’s commitment and leadership but will be alarmed by this policy shift.
“As the USA adopts regressive and harmful policies that are having consequences across the world, the UK government must step up its global leadership role rather than step back. We urge the Government to uphold its aid commitments and continue support for those who are often voiceless.”
The announcement from Keir Starmer comes weeks after a decision by the Trump administration to disband USAid, the US’s flagship aid organisation. It has been reported that this decision could lead to Stonewall losing up to half of its staff.
