Bond statement in response to UK slashing contribution to World Bank’s International Development Association by half

Simon Starling, Director of Policy, Advocacy and Research at Bond, the UK network for organisations working in international development said:

“We are disappointed to hear reports that the UK government has slashed its funding to the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) by 55%. The dramatic drop in funding from nearly £3bn to £1bn means the UK has lost its lead position in the ranking of IDA grant donors – a position it has held proudly for the past several three-year cycles.

“As the world faces increasing global challenges such as COVID-19 and climate change, now is not the time for the UK to abandon its commitments to IDA – the leading donor in nutrition, health, education and climate programmers, and the largest single source of concessional financing for development in lower-income countries.

“Cutting support to an established and critical fund before the upcoming International Development Strategy has been published is also concerning. We hope the UK will live up to its reputation as a reliable and strategic partner by continuing to support global collaboration through funds such as the IDA.”

ENDS
Notes to editor

World Bank press release: Global Community Steps Up with $93 Billion Support Package to Boost Resilient Recovery in World’s Poorest Countries
Donors fail to hit expectation for IDA20 despite record $93B haul, Devex
Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 400 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.
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