Aids Quote by Howard Berman
“I have said it before but it bears repeating: Aid is not a gift. The United States provides foreign assistance because it serves OUR interests.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Congressional testimony, US House Foreign Affairs Committee, 2005
Aid is a strategic tool, not pure charity; it advances national interests while helping other nations.
In simple terms: Aid serves US interests, not just charity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize aid’s dual purpose.
Themes
foreign policy
strategic aid
national interest
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
policy
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- international negotiations
- NGO planning
- budget allocation
Key Concepts
realpolitik
soft power
development assistance
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance altruism with self‑interest in aid?
- What safeguards ensure aid benefits recipients?
A Different Perspective
Aid can create dependency or be misused for political leverage.
