Worldwide, a child dies every six seconds from disease or hunger, yet this tragedy is entirely preventable. So I am troubled by a recent presidential stop work order affecting U.S. foreign assistance. The order is especially troubling considering that international aid comprises less than 1% of the federal budget.
Lacking such aid, far too many desperate people will fail to receive lifesaving medicine and treatment, including prenatal care and HIV treatments that keep so many kids from becoming orphans. Meanwhile, without U.S. aid, infectious diseases will spread more easily across international borders.
Under the order, malnourished children will also be deprived of nutrition assistance, clean water and sanitation. Even programs combating human trafficking will be affected.
Georgia Platts
South Jordan