Concern Worldwide made the important decision to establish a U.S. affiliate more than 20 years ago. We were founded in Ireland in 1968 as a manifestation of the deep compassion of the Irish people — and government — and their steadfast refusal to accept poverty, hunger, and suffering wherever they exist. It was about more than policy — it was a moral obligation based in Ireland’s own famine history. It was clear that this character was shared by the people and government of the U.S., enshrined in this country’s founding documents, on the Statue of Liberty. Compassion and humanitarianism are not only part of the American character, they have for decades guided policy toward proven, pragmatic, and extremely cost-effective programs that build peace, prosperity, and security around the world. 

A 44 percent cut to humanitarian assistance will, quite simply, lead to suffering and death that can be prevented. 

Establishing a team here was a natural decision, and one that has been clearly validated by our impact over the last two decades.

Today, as Concern Worldwide U.S., a proud American humanitarian organization, and a proud partner to thousands of generous citizens and the U.S. government in the fight against poverty, hunger, and suffering around the world, we are alarmed by the Administration’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2018, and the stark departure from our shared values that it represents. A 44 percent cut to humanitarian assistance will, quite simply, lead to suffering and death that can be prevented.  Millions of lives will be affected. Peace, security, and stability are at risk.

The life-saving efforts [that foreign assistance funding] empowers are an indispensable part of what defines us as a great nation.

We realize that this week’s proposal is merely the first step in what will be a months-long process toward the final 2018 budget. So, we join our humanitarian partners and millions of our fellow citizens in calling on our leaders and legislators to stand up for foreign assistance funding — the life-saving efforts it empowers are an indispensable part of what defines us as a great nation.