Yvette Cooper is set to announce a shift in focus towards conflict zones as significant cuts are made to the overseas aid budget. The Foreign Secretary plans to reduce the overseas development budget to 0.3% of GDP by 2027 to increase defense spending, a move that has faced criticism for its potential impact on lives and Britain’s future.

As part of the budget cuts totaling around £6.1 billion, funding will be redirected from numerous projects. Cooper revealed that 70% of geographic support will now be directed to the most fragile and conflict-affected areas, such as Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan. Additionally, £24 million annually will be earmarked for initiatives addressing the root causes of illegal migration.

Emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid amid global conflicts, Cooper pledged ongoing support to regions like Ukraine, Sudan, Palestine, and Lebanon. She stressed the need to realign priorities to maximize impact, highlighting the significance of responding to crises, preventing conflicts, and upholding international law.

The decision to reduce overseas aid, initially proposed by Keir Starmer in February last year, faced backlash, leading to the resignation of International Development Minister Anneliese Dodds. Critics argue that cutting aid from the current 0.5% of GDP could diminish the UK’s soft power and international influence, a level maintained until the onset of the Covid pandemic.

Former International Development Minister Gareth Thomas warned that decreasing aid could strain relations with key allies and hinder progress in healthcare and education in Commonwealth countries. Romilly Greenhill, CEO of Bond, criticized the government’s budget cuts, noting the detrimental effects on the UK’s global standing and the lives of millions worldwide.

Cooper reiterated the government’s commitment to global health, climate action, and gender equality, emphasizing a more efficient and innovative approach to development. The UK aims to transition from a donor to an investor, with continued funding for initiatives like Education Cannot Wait at £80 million and expanded partnerships with organizations like the HALO Trust and Mines Advisory Group (MAG).

International Development Minister Jenny Chapman defended the reduced spending on international development, asserting a focus on addressing global challenges effectively. Despite controversy, the government stands by its decision, citing the need to increase defense spending to 2.7% of GDP. Dodds, in her resignation letter, expressed concern about the potential harm to vulnerable populations and the UK’s reputation resulting from the cuts.