Foreign Aid Cuts Threaten Vaccine Funding, Raising Death Toll Concerns

Campaigners have expressed concern that Sir Keir Starmer's reductions in foreign aid will significantly decrease overseas vaccine funding, potentially leading to an additional 365,000 deaths by the end of the decade. The cuts are a result of the Prime Minister's decision to reduce the international development budget to finance an increase in defense spending.

The UK's contribution to the Gavi international vaccine alliance has been reduced by a quarter. The ONE Campaign, an aid charity, has stated that these cuts will have a "harsh impact," potentially resulting in almost 400,000 additional deaths, reduced funding for girls' education, and an increase in deadly conflicts globally.

Despite these concerns, the UK has pledged £1.25 billion to Gavi between now and 2030. Officials estimate this will protect up to 500 million children from diseases like meningitis, cholera, and measles. The Foreign Secretary emphasized the importance of the ongoing partnership with Gavi in improving children's lives and protecting against the spread of diseases.

However, the £1.25 billion investment represents a 25% decrease from the amount the UK offered between 2021 and 2025. Campaigners had urged the government to maintain the previous level of funding for the 2026-2030 period. The ONE Campaign's calculations suggest that the £400 million cut could lead to 365,000 extra deaths in the next five years and 23 million fewer children receiving vaccinations.

The ONE Campaign's executive director highlighted the negative consequences of the aid cuts, including reduced funding for education, climate justice, and conflict prevention. A senior Labour MP also expressed disappointment, noting that the funding cut, representing a 25% reduction in cash terms and over 40% in real terms, will inevitably lead to loss of life.

The Prime Minister's decision to reduce development spending from 0.5% of GDP to 0.3%, a reduction of approximately £6 billion, was made to fund plans to increase Britain's defense spending. The significant cut to Gavi funding is the first clear indication of the implications of this reduction.

The Development Minister stated that the UK is adopting a "modern approach to development" and focusing on areas where it can have the greatest impact. The Gavi chief executive acknowledged the UK's long-standing commitment and leadership in global health, expressing delight at the continued support. The UK's support will also create jobs domestically through partnerships with health companies.