Sir, – In the past year we have witnessed the United States administration suspend USAid, removing approximately $75.9 billion (€63 billion) from the global aid system. Regrettably, many European and other countries have also drastically reduced their aid budgets, in some cases diverting those funds toward re-arming and strengthening their militaries in an increasingly unstable and volatile world.
Ireland, however, has chosen a different path. The Government has increased our overseas aid budget from €810 million in 2025 to €840 million in 2026. This decision deserves recognition. It is a clear and principled statement that Ireland remains committed to solidarity, fairness and global responsibility, even at a time when others are stepping back.
Through Irish Aid, Ireland is supporting a teacher training and mentoring programme delivered by SeeBeyondBorders here in Cambodia. This funding is enabling us to reach 1,819 children, helping to improve teaching quality in classrooms where educational standards remain among the lowest globally and where many young people are denied the opportunities they deserve.
At a time when global need is rising and support is contracting, Ireland’s continued investment in overseas development matters more than ever. Our hope is that, if and when additional spending is ring-fenced for defence and armaments in the years ahead, it will not come at the expense of our aid budget. Ireland has earned international respect for standing with the world’s most vulnerable communities, and it is vital that we continue to demonstrate that commitment in word and action.
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Ireland’s voice on the global stage is strongest when it is guided not only by our interests, but by our values. On overseas aid, the Government deserves credit for doing exactly that. – Yours, etc,
COLM BYRNE,
Chief executive, SeeBeyondBorders Ireland,
Cambodia.
