What first? Aid or defence?
Discussion statement | This is for ages 10 to 13
Should countries reduce foreign aid to spend more on things like defence?
Governments have limited money to spend. Sometimes they choose to spend more on defence (protecting themselves or fighting with others) instead of foreign aid (helping others in need). What's the right thing to do?
Tell us what you think
You might want to structure your answer like this:
I think [your opinion] is most important because [the reason for your opinion]. I believe this because [a piece of evidence].
Make sure you read the comments from other Topical Talkers to see whether you agree or disagree with them.
Comments (206)
I think that countries should not decrease aid money given to other countries just to increase defence expenditure. Defence makes a nation safe from current threats, but aid prevents the formation of the initial problems that become defence concerns later on.
Forgetting about poor standards of living, poor levels of education, and poor government might cause wars to emerge and affect all countries in the globe regardless of their location.
Those who want to adopt a policy of increasing defence expenditure also believe that governments should think about their own people, particularly during difficult times. This is not an unreasonable position to take, but history has again and again revealed that power and military might alone are not sufficient to bring lasting peace and harmony. Today, many wars are being triggered by social and economic instability in various regions, which international aid directly prevents.
Foreign aid can also be used to build diplomatic relationships. For instance, two countries can forge strong diplomatic relationships if they helped each other during challenging times, such as disaster strikes or financial crunches.
Ultimately, defence and foreign aid must work together. Defence responds to immediate dangers, while foreign aid reduces long-term risks. A balanced approach protects not just a nation’s present, but its future stability as well.
I mostly agree, but sending aid money from a country to prevent a military conflict doesn’t form a good strategy most of the time. All conflicts nowadays wouldn’t have been avoided by foreign aid payments. A conflict nowadays is mostly caused by a regime or a dictator which exploits its people. If aid money is sent, most of it wouldn’t reach the people in need. As we saw in Somalia from 1992 to 1995 when a massive aid package was sent to stop the famine in Somalias population, an radical islamistic group seized the aid package and caused a military operation by the us, where dozens of Americans and hundreds of Somalis died.
I’m not saying, that we should stop providing aid for countries, who are stuck in times of crisis. We should rather think about who we really give our money to and if our money really serves its purpose in the place that it was sent to. In the end we and by we I mean all countries should be more critical about sending aid to other countries. And by aid I mean every payment that is made. Even payments for bycicle lanes in Peru. Aid is necessary to live in a healthy world but its not something that should be given around the world blindly.
You actually changed my opinion on this topic, my original stance was that a leader is responsible for their citizens first and this is true, but as you said diplomatic relations, might actually benefit them more than just defense, it would open up space for trade, sharing intelligence and helping develop each others nations, giving mutual benefits to both parties, and not helping those nations when they are in need might actually lead to conflicts in the future, because when that country finally finds it's ground again they will break ties with your nation.
Countries shouldn't, in my own opinion, cut back on foreign aid in order to boost defence expenditures. While aid helps prevent social and economic issues that eventually become security threats, defence is crucial for dealing with immediate threats. Ignoring unstable government, inadequate educational systems and subpar living conditions can lead to conflict that eventually impacts the entire world.
Although it makes sense for governments to put their own citizens first, particularly during trying times, history demonstrates that military by itself cannot bring about enduring peace. Building diplomatic ties between countries is another benefit of foreign aid. In the end, cooperation between defence and aid is necessary to safeguard both immediate and long-term international stability.
I agree because aid is very useful for everyone especially for those people in need and for the hospitals who really need it right now.
I think there is no clear answer for this question.The problem is that the argument her is putting us on the horns of dilemma. Each country has the right to defend its own people.Charity begins at home. You can't be spending money on other countries where your own country is needy and your people are suffering or are liable to be in danger. On the other hand,these poor countries need aid so badly so that they can survive. i believe that since we are livig in the age of globalization,we need to think globally.Whatever happens in one place affects the whole world.So giving aid is a way of defense as well. There should be world treaties oblidging all counties to allocate a part of its income to the poorer countries.May be asa a form of taxes .It should be agreed worldwide that poverty is a threat to the whole world that needs global and radical solutions.Setting a balance between the two options is a must that requires a lot of wisedom.
I think foreign aid should be given equal or even greater importance than defence because preventing problems is better than reacting to them with force. I believe this because many global threats, such as conflict, terrorism, disease, and mass migration, often begin in places affected by poverty, weak governments, or natural disasters. Foreign aid helps address these root causes before they turn into larger security problems that may require military action.
For example, when countries invest in foreign aid by supporting education, healthcare, clean water, and disaster relief, they help create stability in vulnerable regions. Stable countries are less likely to experience conflict or become safe spaces for extremist groups. This means there is less risk of violence spreading across borders, which directly benefits the security of wealthier nations. In this way, foreign aid can act as a form of long-term defence without the need for weapons or conflict.
However, defence spending is still necessary to protect a country from immediate threats. Governments have a duty to keep their citizens safe, especially in a world where tensions between nations are high. The problem arises when defence budgets grow at the expense of helping others, as this can increase global inequality and resentment.
Overall, while defence is important, reducing foreign aid too much is short-sighted. A balanced approach that maintains strong defence while continuing meaningful foreign aid is the most responsible and effective choice for long-term global security.
i agree it is better if there is aid in case people are alive but need serious help because there hurt.
I agree with you; independent musician.
Could you elaborate on why you agree?
I agree with this comment very much indeed
Could you elaborate on why you think so?
I agree as well strong queen. :) (: :P {: }:
I agree with this comment very much indeed .
Could you elaborate on why you think so?
I agree with you because foreign aid is important same with defense and if we reduced foreign aid most countries that need foreign aid but only get defense it would be a problem. We are expected to be donors and countries that need foreign aid had leaders that stole the countries money. A balanced approach that maintains strong defense while continuing meaningful foreign aid is better that just choosing one in particular it is the most responsible and effective choice for long-term global security.
In addition to foreign aid, I think donor countries should have planned programs that ultimately lift receiving countries from poverty such they too can donate to other countries. This will set up cycle that will help to drastically reduce poverty especially in Africa and other third world countries.
I think I agree with you on this. Giving out aid to underdeveloped countries helps better than building defence.
An example is the United State's "Marshall Plan" , after the World War 2, Europe was broke and hungry, the US gave massive grants to rebuild their cities and factories. This turned former enemies like West Germany into solid allies against the Soviet Union.
Good historical reference! You make a strong point that aid can be strategic and act as a form of defense. In your opinion, what are the reasons developed countries today can not replicate the success Western Europe achieved under the Marshall plan and become economically independent afterward?
I agree with your opinion. Aid should definetly be given equal and greater importance than defence.
I believe that aid to another country is more important than defence. Usually if you help someone when they need it, they will help you if you need help. If you aid another country, you can ally with them and you can be more powerful instead of being alone. For example, In World War II The Axis Powers had Germany, Italy and Japan. Why did countries in World War 2 have allies? They need to be stronger than the opponent to win the war.
I agree with you, giving foreign aid to me is a smart power strategy, it goes beyond simply giving handouts. Foreign aid can inspire a country to cooperate, when life saving assistance is given during pandemics, natural disasters liking flooding or even wars, countries begin to build soft powers and authority. This brings about loyalty, countries who will stand by the countries who have given foreign aids especially during international disputes, this i believe is even more important than any weapons systemt. Foreign is an like an investment in future market, helping a developing country become more stable economically is creating a new trading partner which is a win win for all involved as it is easier to support a struggling nation today than send a strong army to deal with a collapsed country tomorrow.
Hi, we see eye to eye that aid is crucial for a country and even it can be more important than defence. Giving aid to others who need it will beneficiate the country in a future, maybe in return of aid when is needed or also defence. Helping others could provide to the country support from others with defence, for instance, in war situations. Despite the fact that each country is different from each other, with this helps we little by little could start to join together as a world and help each other whenever it's needed.
Hello, innovative cheetah
I strongly agree with your point as being two countries in a war supporting each other will help a lot. Poor countries have a low level of education, a small amount of war tools like guns, weapons, airplanes and "advanced" tools like technology.
In school, I learned that some people who has the control over social media can control what's being shared and for who, so these people can be biased; they might share misinformation about a government or a country policies. This would confuse people and make them doubt that their country is weak or unfair.
Foreign aid is something really kind and gives a sense of safety and peace instead of feeling alone and unsupported. It makes them feel that they aren't alone and that others are there any time to provide support.
It is like a tree or a plant, can a plant grow without water, nutrients or light? Of course, no, it will die. It is very similar to poor countries; they have poverty, drought, less access to education, weak tools of defending their country.
Another example is the war between Palestine and Isreal. The war stayed for too long until Egypt decided to make a peace deal between them, returning peace to Palestine.
Overall, foreign aid is important as all countries are on the same planet. However, some money should be kept to solve problems in OUR OWN countries. Simply, these must be a balance between both,
I think, to give aid is more important than to defence, because preventing problems is better than reacting by force. And when you help another country, when they need help, they can help your country too.
I agree with you because supplying aid for another country can help them by saving a lot of lives, global health development and enhanced security and stability. By helping them, they will want to always help you during struggles in a country. It is more like gaining a very strong relationship, another reason I agree with you is because people who defend the country might get shot and will need foreign aid for their treatment.
I agree because if you help a country that is in a very hard situation either with money, food supply,and other services, they could also help you if you are in a critical situation.
If you help a country in need you can keep good relationships based on trust, cooperation and maybe you can be very good friends and help each other.
In conclusion I agreed with you because with the help of two countries you could also cooperate with each other with AID
THANK YOU 🙏🙏🏿
I strongly agree with you because when you help a country that is going through hard times and you give it an aid, in the future if you are going through hard times they can do the same to you. For example if there is a war the two of you can become allies and fight for your countries and if possible you can win the war. So Aid is better than defense.
I do not agree with you because if the persons country needs help what will the person do if he does not have money to defend his country what will he do? I think you should choose defense over aid because you can defend your country from any bad group, it will not only help your country it will help you to. Tell your leaders do not give aid to another country help your country and defend your country.
In my opinion, defense should definitely come first before aid. Defense prevents crises from happening, and aid only responds to them. Strong defense can stop invasions, terrorism, and tense wars before they destroy lives. Aid helps after the damage is done. In fact, without any defense and security, aid can’t even reach people who need it. In conflict zones or wars, people who provide help to communities are often blocked or attacked by the opposing army. Aid can’t reach people without security because violence will break every step of the delivery. For example, country A and country B are in a war. Although humanitarian workers are neutral, working for both A and B—their lives are at risk. They work in a dangerous environment. Without defense and security, they could come upon unstable routes (destroyed bridges, roads, etc). Aside from that, defense could stop aid from being weaponized. In some areas, armed groups often steal humanitarian aid like food and medicine, then use them to supply fighters, sell them to fund weapons, and even use it as a tool of war, making conflict last longer and increase suffering. Defense can prevent extortion and ensure aid reaches the ones who need it most, not armed groups.
In conclusion, I think that defense is the most important because it provides stability, safety, and control—while aid only works when those exist. Let me know what you guys think!
I agree because in my opinion defense is more important than aid because you need to protect yourself from attacks in order to do other things. This is because if you don't defend yourself you might get killed, and if you are dead you can not give or receive aids. If people don't defend themselves they might get killed which might lead to lose of lives and properties which can bring up crises.
I don't totally agree because not all wars are preventable, from my research most wars needs to actually occur for example world war 1 this resulted in new countries such as Poland, Latvia, and even the re-emergence of Finland, so wars are a natural thing and the best precautional measure to be considered are towards the people and citizens of that country, "AID" is important for the general wellbeing of a country and I don't think that innocent peoples life are worth the risk, imagine yourself in that persons shoes how would you feel if your very wellbeing was being sacrificed just for a little advancement in a country's defense. But on the other hand you are right when this aids are distributed proper measures should be taken to prevent any crimes regarding aid such as theft.
In conclusion aid is a right that every citizens holds and this right shouldn't be taken for granted just because the citizens of a country don't come to ask or request for aids.
I agree with you because if they choose aid over defense their country has problems with what is happening in his or her country will the person give aid to another country when his or her country needs help? No I say that they should choose defense over aid because it will help their country become a better place. All the bad groups will be reducing and all of them will be killed. Take Nigeria for example we need help with insecurity in our country.
I agree with what Mindful_road wrote. Defense should come before aid. For example, in the civil war in my country Nigeria between a country called Biafra trying to leave Nigeria and be a separate country, i read in a book "There was a country" by Chinua Achebe that Biafra could not get any aid from other countries because of how the Nigerian government kept collecting them before they even landed. If there was defense, it would not have been like that. A lot happened but my point is, defense should definitely accompany or even come before aid. Thank you.
In my opinion, I think countries should spend money to defend themselves rather than helping in foreign aid. To emphasis more, defense spending is a necessary thing that enables any state to deter threat whenever a war happens or any other threat( like war threat or a communication shutdown in the state.
While foreign aid may also cause other problems like some countries would rely much more on aid rather than developing their country. Although money aid would be wasted or used against aider.
Hi! I understand your point of view on defense, and it´s true that a country needs to protect itself and be well-prepared for threats. However, I believe that international aid is very important because it helps improve the situations of vulnerable people and reduces poverty.
Investing in aid doesn´t have to mean ignoring defense. Helping other countries can even benefit the security of those who provide assistance. We should stop considering ourselves separate from other countries, because in the end, we are all part of the world and should contribute to making it a better place.
I agree with you because before you give aid you must ensure that your country is secured. For examples Ukraine have invested in defence prior to the war with Russia, if they had not invested in defense, Russia would have overun them by now. Yes, it is true that thye got some aid fro the USA but they are to keep fighting because of their inestestment arms.
That said, it is not out of place for poor third world countries to seek for foreign support instead of aid because it takes the full and satisfied to invest inn arms.
I agree with you because, if war comes they will need money to buy weapons to protect themselves, imagine if the money had been spent on aid? They need to focus more on defense because if crisis, war or any threat enters their country the military will be able to defend their country and fight for the country. Defense focuses on fighting and protecting the country while aid is the care given to other countries who may not really need it or will spend it the wrong way. if they focus on defense they will be able to fight off invasions, terrorism and many other threat against their country.
For instance country A and country B are having a crisis and country B wants to invade country A, if country A focuses on aid a lot of people will loose their lives in its home country though it is helping other countries. At the end of the day country B will defeat country A, leaving it distabilised, and those countries who received aid from them may not be able to help them out of their problems.
I think you should put aid first because if you give help to them they will give help to you, if you defend you might get criticised for not helping them and it might turn into war or something bad
you should defend first and then worry about aid.
Why do you think so?
I agree because we have to help the people in danger.
On the other hand, we also have to help our own people to have more for generations.
Why do you think both of these are the case?
I think aid is more important because say if you get shot you are going to need medical attention so therefore it is more important than defence.In defence you are just going to waste there money on your guns and the guns are very expensive meanwhile with the medical stuff it is actually useful because it can save lives.
I think that we should send aid to people so they can defend themselves but if i was in an emergency i would save myself then my family then other people. If me and my family are safe I will try to save other people because i am kind.
I think aid is most important because we need aid so we can survive then we are all alive and then we can build defence and the countries will be safe and live and not die.
So you might have heard of the shooting in Australia
Hi - why do you think the shooting in Australia is relevant here? Please do explain.
I think there have been smaller shootings and violent incidents, such as spree shootings in Lake Cargelligo earlier in 2026 (UNRELATED to terrorism) where several people in what police are investigating as a domestic incident rather than a political attack. ( This shooting was because extremist-motivated ).
I think that people should help a bit less so they can save themselves. On the other hand, you should help others before yourself. I personally think that you should spend money on your army, then the rest leftover can be spent on others. On the other other hand, if you was on a plane, it says '' Help yourself before helping others''.
I believe defence should go first as aid can be important and can help but defending yourself is way better than relying on someone else
i learnt that the options that i thought could get a lot of points didn't so i know i need to think deeper. Countries should bring aid so in case anyone gets hurt,people are ready to treat them in time.It is safer and it makes sure everyone is ok when fighting.
I think we should defence
Why do you think this is the case?
I think that we should aid to other countries so they could protect themselves but i also think we should protect our country first because if we just give aid to other countries and don't care about about us, we would be harming our citizens in our country too. I think we should defend ourselves but also help other countries. This shows that there is no clear answer for this question and that we should just protect as many countries as we can but also protecting ourselves the most so we don't harm our people here in the UK. This is just my opinion, if you don't agree then i understand but this is what i think.
Hi neat_duck, I have given you a star for when you said "there is no clear answer" to this very complex question! Well done for considering how difficult these decisions and problems are, and for being brave to say that they are very challenging.
Personally, I think that defence should be put first. I think this because when your in a aeroplane and their telling you the safety checks, they tell you to put on your mask before you help any body else so this tells me you should put defence before aid. When you want to help struggling country in war you have to protect yourself so you don't get stuck in war you didn't start in. Also sometimes you have to know who to help because if you give money or supplies to somebody who doesn't, it can lead to corruption or incorrect use.
I think that aid should be first.Aid should be first because although its good to defence, aid should be first because you need to help yourself before you help any body else.
Helping other people is good and kind but you need to help yourself because you want to make sure your okay until you help other people.
We need to understand that helping yourself first is not selfish! If you want to help yourself first,don't think your selfish.
i agree helping others before your self is not selfish but if you can you should help other counties.
I agree because it is good not to be selfish and rude
I think we should spend money on our country but we also need to help other counties. We need to send aid to the middle east and other counties in war. It is also important to make sure everyone in our country is safe and have the right aid. It is important that we make sure our country is safe but other people around need aid and help. If we spend money on uk and there is no money to help people that are in need of aid people can donate. In conclusion i think the uk should spend money on aid for uk but we should make sure people from other counties are safe and have aid.
i think it's more important to defend first because if the county has sent aid but got invaded the county who recived the aid may not be able to help because they are still recovering and the county remains defencless but if the county defence it self first then the conty can support it's self and the other county after wards and both countries remain safe.
no,because we need to look after our own contry like if we had a flood or somethink wre will die will no help and we need to keep some money so we will stay safe and prepared,on the other hand we need to givce help to others so they dont get upset and think we are just trying to protect ourself and them but we need to look after ourself and then we can look after the others so yes i have 2 resons fir this qwueston:)
I think foreign aid is more important than spending more money on defence because supporting other countries in need helps create a safer and more stable world in the long run.
I believe this because foreign aid improves access to education, healthcare, and basic resources, which can reduce poverty, conflict, and instability.
For example, when countries invest in aid programmes such as schools, medical services, and clean water projects, it helps communities become stronger and more independent, reducing the chances of future global crises.
I believe the UK government should focus on giving aid because of our natural defences like the English channel
I think aid is more important because if people are in danger you can help, also if people are starving you can provide them food and medical assistance to help people in need. Defence is least important because you are only caring about your own country and not helping people who need it most. Aid also provides help to other countries and some countries won’t loose so many citizens. But defence won’t care about the poor and people in the world.
I agree with you because Aid is more important than defense. if you only defend your own country, other countries will be in danger and will need medical assistance and other necessities. so, other countries need aid so that they can survive. Defense is important but caring about other countries with major humanitarian challenges is more important in my opinion. in these countries it is mostly women and children that suffer most, because they make up a larger part of the population. If help does not come it will lead to lose of lives.
Is your claim about women and children based on evidence?
I agree with you because aid is important because it saves lives, provides food, medical assistance, education and infrastructure in a country. Defense is also important in a country to help block attacks from another countries but defense will reduce the population of a particular country while aids will help people across country. Aid gives other countries who are not able to feed themselves, treat themselves or even survive on their own country. But other countries can help another country with aids (which is called Foriegn Aid) for example, USA sent Aid to Ukraine.
I think aid is important because you would be more respected for your support in the country because government should care for others first, then their own for people can be poor on stuff like education, food, money, ETC.
How do you think someone living in the country and paying their taxes would feel about that?
They would feel pretty annoyed for paying taxes for other country’s survival
but foreign aid would be worth doing for they shall help the country too if in bad shape in return but governments should also focus on there own defence because say you are in a war, you don’t have any defence nor have aid they would be invaded immediately and may cause country population could decrease.
A country's leader is first dedicated to their country's citizens and then others, so I feel like defending the lives of your own citizens should take priority over other countries, and think about the taxpayers in those nations, imagine how you would feel if you paid for your country to take care of you and your fellow citizens, and instead of developing your country, they spend all their budget helping a separate country, while allowing you to suffer, and grow poor, someone who isn't paying for it is enjoying the fruits of your labor.
I think aid over defence because if they get defence first and then the country could be dying out and while you defend the country until eventually nobody will even use the defence as there could be a drop in population leading in weak army’s by the time you send aid.
I think that foreign aid is the most important because it helps in long term problems. I believe this because helping others will improve alliances and will give you more security if something bad happens to our country. Even though I think foreign aid is more important, defence if still very important if something happens out of the blue. For example, if a powerful country came on us like Spain or France we would have the defence to help us. But, foreign aid would also help us as well because any country that we supported might help us to.
I think aid is more important than defence because you should put other people first. I believe that aid is more important so other countries can see how much you support them.
I think aid is more important because then your country would give an good example and if we think defence is more important we are more likely to build dangerous things e.g bombs, that could of been stolen by different countries so that would be the start to another war
I think that country’s should keep on sending aid because a country only needs a certain amount of aid and if they don’t share it then people will die.
In addition, if the country’s government didn't send it and instead took the money and put it into the army and defences, they would have more enemies than friends and eventually they would takeover the country. Also the aid would be barely be any use to them
Thanks for your comment. Be careful when making sweeping statements... "if they don't share it people will die". Is this true? Can you support it with evidence? "Eventually they would take over the country" - again, is this true and based in evidence?
It should be aid because it's like helping other people when their needed when something goes wrong and it's really important if something bad happens and defence should be 50 per-sent because you won't know what's going to happen and you need to be ready at what terrible stuff is happening and you would be capable at what you are doing in some specific if someones aid is needed, and you don't help them they would be in danger.
I think defence is more important because if you can't protect yourself you will need more and more aid. Others may disagree because everybody needs food, water and many other things to survive.
I think that defence is key first because if you chose aid first then the other country might keep on attacking and you will run out of resources and aid so they can just keep launching attacks bombs and sending people to attack.Some evidence to back my answer was when USA sent aid to Ukraine which was only helpful for a couple of weeks.
I see where you are trying to get but I´m not totally conviced about what you are saying, as you, I beleive that each country needs to have their own defense. However as far as I´m concerned, giving aid supplies to countries that really need them can be essencial to that country although is little and it doesn´t last to much time, is a support for the community and it creates hope among the citizens.
I think that defence is more important because you don't want your country getting invaded but I also think aid is important because other countries are struggling more than us and we want to have allies so we're not a target to lots of other countries.I believe that if we are kind to other countries they will eventually be kind to us.
I agree with you, security is the foundation of life so I believe countries should first of all think of protecting their citizens before thinking of foreign aid. In a war or conflict it is important to have right equipment like advance weapons, body armour etc. A nation should be well secured and have the right to exist and govern itself, a strong military can very well prevent a war before it starts, when countries know that you can defend yourself they are less likely to attack. With what has been happening around the world, relying on other nations to protect you is very risky. I know someone might say helping a country with foreign aid like building a hospital or farm makes them your ally and this helps improves their economic growth which also makes them your trading partners. As good as these points are, i believe peace is a required for any meaningful trade to take place and it is only in an environment of peace that the workforce of any country can thrive.
I think that defence is more important because you don't want your country getting invaded but I also think aid is important because other countries are struggling more than us and we want to have allies so we're not a target to lots of other countries.I believe that if we are kind to other countries they will eventually be kind to us.
I think both aid and defence is most important because when you are hurt in war or injured , you can get aid to heal you then after you can get healed . Then after you get healed , you will already have defence with you such as weapons, shields and lots more. I believe this because when Ukraine got bombed by Russia , they got defence and came back to them. Both of these really are important.
I think that they should spend money for people and not only on there self because other people matter to but I would say that they should not spend too much money because if you are at a age were you are going to University you need to spend money on what your job is going to be.
i think aid is more important because defence is when you just defend your self but aid is when you help people and give them money, food , drink and maybe a home or some were to stay . My friend that does not go to my school l her mum on christmas when to a kitchen and cooked roast dinner for the people that dont have someone to celibrate with or that is poor so i think aid because you can help lots of people like my friend mum that is why i choose aid .
Thanks for sharing. This is an example of charity giving on smaller scale. Do you think it's the same when it's whole countries giving millions of pounds from their government's budget?
I think defence is the most important because if a country comes and raid you and they don't tell you but you have a equipment to help because what if the other country doesn't have as much defence as you , have weapons but they don't have as much . I believe this because they might just be doing this because they don't have as much it's like stealing from a country.
I think they should spend very little money because otherwise if they spend too much then they might not have enough money for future threats or conferences.But at the same time they should spend quite a lot of money so that they can have hygienic and healthy resources so maybe they should have a spend limit on the account they use to spend money.
I think defence is most important because if there is no defence you would have less protection and you will have less time to plan important things to save your contry
I think giving money to other countries is important because if you don't and the country suffers then you could be heavily criticised by other countries that have supported them throughout their times in war. I believe this because when the UK stopped giving resources they were heavily criticised.
I think that countries should try to send aid and build their defence at the same time because they could send out loads of aid to several countries, but by the time they have finished sending out aid, they would no more money for their own country to help themselves. I believe this even though I don't have any evidence because it has probably happened before , it is probably something that might happen in the next few years. Countries can be generous, but sometimes they might be too generous they might be too generous and not leave anything for themselves as a country. Therefore , I think countries should continue to send aid , but not too much.
Thanks for your comment. Is it wise to believe things without evidence? Can you do some research to support your point of view?
I think helping others in need because if you help, other people will help you back and maybe that country might be struggling and they will need a lot of support. I believe this because America helped Ukraine since Russia was invading them and now Ukraine has better resources because America spent billions of pounds on them and supported them. That shows that we can all help and make a big, good change.
Aid is the most important because someone could be in danger and they might end up losing their lives and some could be capable of surviving. Defence is kind of important because you might not know what your capable of and it's important to be safe in what your doing.
I believe that aid is more important than defence because people need food,water,houses.I believe this because sending aid is more important than caring about yourself. Also you should send aid to other people because they probably need it really much and you probably do not really need it so I would advise people to send aid to other countries because you might not need it as much as they do.
I said this because in class today we were learning about sending aid to other countries and for the first one,flooding, I picked A because sending aid to a countries that has a flood and needs homes is a good thing. I would love to send aid that have very bad disasters.😀
i think defence is most important because that if there is a surprise attack there is a defence already waiting to be prepared for war.there is also a 90 percent chance that you can win the war if you fight back instead of healing than going you might spy to see their plan for battle and to see their pick of battle field of obstacles and to train for it.i believe this because defence is a very good and there is not just guns and pistols to defend there is also walls and types of shield.
Hi! I understand your point of view, and I also think that defence is very important for future issues, but I believe that giving aid and helping other countries is really important and should come first. This could help reduce poverty, build stronger relationships with other countries, and save lives by providing necessary things such as food or medical care.
Finally, defence is really necessary, but not everything is about guns and weapons, protecting human lives is equally important, because a country that cares for people is much stronger both morally and strategically.
Hi, topical talkers.
In my opinion, a choice between foreign aid and defense depends on the situation of the country at that point in time. For instance, a country at war may rely more on foreign aid than defense, not because defense is unimportant, but during that period, such a country needs all available resources to survive and sustain essential operations. On the other hand, during times of peace and ongoing development, I feel it will be of better advantage for a government to invest in strengthening the defense of the country preparing for any future challenges as much as we hope that such threats never arise. In conclusion, I'll say defense is the foundation, and foreign aid is the reinforcement when threat presents itself.
As someone from India, I have seen why this debate between foreign aid and defense spending is not simple. Growing up, I remember news about floods in Kerala and cyclones on the eastern coast, where government aid and international support were crucial for rebuilding homes and other important places. At the same time India also faces security challenges on its borders, which shows why defense spending cannot be ignored either.
India currently spends around 2.4% of its GDP on defense, while foreign aid and humanitarian assistance form a smaller share on the national budget. This reflects a global pattern: according to the world bank, most countries spend over ten times more on defense than on foreign aid. Supporters of defense argue that without national security, economic growth and stability are impossible. for example, border tensions in recent years have pushed India to modernize its military to protect its sovereignty.
However, reducing foreign aid can have serious consequences. The OECD reports that over 700 million people worldwide still live in extreme poverty and aid plays a serious role in providing health care and education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, India both received and provided medical assistance showing how international cooperation can save lives.
I think the real solution is balance. Governments should not choose between aid and defense as if it must replace each other.
signing off: Fair minded elephant
I think aid needs more attention as if you spent more money on defending yourself, it might not work and people would get injured and not be attended to properly. Which in my opinion would be very bad because if everyone gets injured or killed you would be in a horrible position. It’s hard to think that we have to make a decision between the two as they are equally important for it’s what we need for protection and to live. If I had to choose I would be stuck as I would need to make a decision to save lives but I wouldn’t know which one would do it as if I choose wrong a lot of people may die.
But on the other hand, we need protection from stuff that could kill us for we don’t die from what the other countries might send in our way like bombs or tanks. We also need to fight against the enemy so they can’t attack us as they are to weak to fight against us. And if we protect then there might not be any poor living conditions, barely any education and everyone scared to go outside or just leave their homes if they have one. As being in those situations would be horrible for anyone and everyone, you might be homeless or injured because there wasn’t enough protection.
In conclusion, it would be hard to choose between them but I think after writing this I would go protection and attack because know one should feel unsafe and in danger. I would rather be protected and make sure who we’re fighting doesn’t have to go through that. So let them give up and both be safe. So protecting is the best thing for me but what about you, what do you think is the best way to solve this?
My personal opinion is that when a country spends money on aid for other countries with limited resources to help them live better and In a way that guarantees people a decent life, this is much more important than spending money on military defense, because the basis of life on earth is peace , not war , and cooperation between peoples is the highest goal of humanity.
You say "cooperation between peoples is the highest goal of humanity", can you say more on this?
I actually think that the government's money should be split in half each half could buy defenses and aid, so, if there are any citizens that are hurt they can be healed and the country could be strong enough with their defenses and weapons in case there is a conflict between them and another country or for example war, they can be ready enough to fight a little.
However, some countries might think that they should spend on defenses more than medical use or the other way around so in this paragraph I'm going to talk about what will happen if the government's spent more on defenses. At the government spent more on defenses the death rate in their country is going to most likely start to get higher because medical uses and AIDS are not enough for the injured citizens and hospitals everyday, because yes, they are going to most likely win every fight and be ready for any war but what will be the point of soldiers are fighting for their citizens and the citizens are already dying.
In this paragraph I'm going to talk about the government spend more on medical uses then defenses. If the government spent more medical uses, they are going to most likely and maybe even certainly lose every fight and their country will be like a toy for other countries because it's going to be known that it's weak and yes it's going to be barely any citizen to die because they have a good amount of medical aid but you actually never know maybe they're just meant to be dead by that time, and no medical uses going to help them. Anyway, I'd like to say that it should be split in half to be fair.
Bye!
International aid or defense? Actually, that is a significant question that does not have a stable answer. Spending more on aids or defense depends on the circumstances in every country. Every country is different like some countries use their money to spend on the military defense and others use it to provide other countries with help or aids like with education and healthcare.
If a country is full of wars and terrorist people, it is their right to upgrade their military yet if another country is living peacefully (without tension), it can provide others with support. Consequently, both of them are efficient. For example, in 1994, in Rwanda, there were a lot of conflicts between Hutu and Tutsi ethnic groups also there was a civil war between the government forces and Tutsi-led rebels. This led to mass killing (over 800,000 people were killed over 100 days in Rwanda). This war started on April 6, 1994, and stopped in July 1994. (100 days in between). During this duration, Rwanda was spending their money on the military besides countries like USA, European countries and China were providing Rwanda with development, technical support and aids such as food, medical and shelter aids. Rwanda recovered from this war and became supporting other countries with aids specially in Africa.
To conclude, if countries are in a horrible situation, they cannot manage to provide others with aid, but they will work on upgrading their military yet if a country is in peace, it can support others. Therefore, it depends.
What do you think? Does it depend on the circumstances in countries?
Can you cite where you found your evidence?
I think the government should use the money on foreign aid because if we help other people in different places or countries we could form an alliance so if we helped them, they would help us in return when we need it.It could also help in wars as the more allies countries have together, the more people they can trust and rely on for defence.This could also make an impact on people as it would bring everybody together and boost people's morales because when people get what they need, they would feel happy just like we would if we got what we needed.However, if you give a place something they haven't got that they need, they could not have anything too give in return back too the country that gave something, maybe because they don't have enough to give but sometimes those countries may favour your country on international stages.
I think that it depends whether a country spends its money on itself or other countries. I believe that a country with a lot of wealth and power should give to others as they should be sophisticated enough to take care of themselves. However, if the country doesn’t have that power or wealth they should keep the money they earn as they will need it.
Although this could be a good solution I would think that many countries would keep money for themselves due to greed. So another solution could be that they can give a portion of their wealth to other countries as they will be doing a good deed and they get to keep some for themselves. Also, if many countries contribute then it will also bring them together leading to less conflict.
I think that if countries can only pick one or the other it should be helping others as it could lead to countries becoming allies and friends so they won’t want to cause conflict. As well as that, if there is no fighting then countries can spend more on others as they won’t need to spend their wealth on defence.
It is reasonable to question foreign aid for countries that spend more on military power than on the well-being of their people.
Foreign assistance is meant to support development, reduce poverty, and improve living standards. If a government choose to invest heavily in weapons instead of education, healthcare and basic services, it shows misplaced priorities.
When a nation has limited funds but still increases its defense budget while depending on international aid,it creates an unfair situation. In such cases,reducing foreign assistance can encourage governments to redirect their spending toward peace and social development.
I think they are both important because it is essential that a country is able to protect themselves against threats of war. Some of the defence money is also spent helping others when they are in need. For example, the UK sent money and equipment to Ukraine to help them in their war against Russia. Although this is defence money, not aid , it is still helping others.
But it is also important to help others when you can, and when natural disasters happen they need lots of help very quickly so they would not be able to do that alone. Which is why they need other countries around the world to help them, that is when aid money would be important.
I think it is okay to reduce some aid money in the budget as long as there is enough to help others when really needed, for example war, famine, drought and tsumanis.
I think that the countries dosnt have the righ of remove aid of the people that dosnt have any food for example .
Could you elaborate on your point?
Countries give aids for various reasons, including reducing poverty and suffering, promoting economic growth and development, enhancing global stability and security, fostering relations and advancing national and interests. Aid can also be used to address global challenges like climate change, pandemics and inequalities.
Seeing all of these, I would suggest that government spend more on aid because it keeps displaced family members going, gives hopes and also help the victims find their feet.
Defence is important too, but I believe the government could find a balance between building defence and giving out aids to improve people's standards of living.
I think I choose defence over aid. Defence is more important because if defence is given the proper attention, the issue of insecurity presently affecting most countries especially in Africa will be contained. No matter the amount of aid you give a country, without security it will not make any impact. For example in Nigeria, since the issue of insecurity started, there has been a lot of foreign aid that has been received to help the people that have been displaced due to bandits and terrorists attacks. These bandits and terrorists find their ways into the country because of poor defence. Any country that cannot defend its territory, is bound to face serious consequences which include insecurity. So, defense must be given its rightful place rather than neglecting it and concentrate on aid which is needed as a result of crisis and these crisis is a product of poor defence.
I think aid should not be something we should be talking about because it has a negative impact on countries which has made some countries so lazy that they rely solely on foreign aid to survive. Instead of these countries to look inward to see how they can develop their resources for the benefit of their citizens, they neglect these resources because they know they are going to get foreign aid. Aid has done more harm than good, because some of these aid organizations have been accused of sponsoring terrorism in countries. So, I will choose defence over and over again against aid. With defence, you are sure of the safety of your lives and properties.
I think countries should care more about foreign aid than defence, because helping people early can stop bigger problems later. I believe this because when countries are very poor or unsafe, problems like war, hunger and sickness can spread and affect everyone, not just one place.
For example, in Geography we learn that when people don’t have clean water, food, or safe homes, life becomes really hard. Aid can help build schools, hospitals and water pipes. This is happening in places like Palestine, where many children don’t feel safe and struggle to get basic things. Giving aid there doesn’t just help one country; it helps children grow up healthier and more hopeful instead of scared or angry.
If governments only spend money on defence, it’s like putting on armour but ignoring people who are hurt. Defence protects borders, but aid protects lives. Also, if countries fail because they don’t get help, more fighting can start, which means even more money will be spent on defence later. So helping first is actually smarter, not weaker.
I understand why defence is important, because countries want to feel safe. But I think the best safety comes from a world where fewer people are desperate. Helping others can reduce conflict, which means there’s less need for defence in the future.
So I think foreign aid is more important, because when we help other countries stand up, the whole world becomes stronger; not just the richest ones.
I do not believe that countries should offer foreign aid if they cannot sustain it. Of course, things such as sudden wars or economic crashes cannot be predicted but if a country has been providing foreign aid then they shouldn't just let go of their obligation unless there's a very valid reason. Cutting from foreign aid and spending it on the military might seem like a good plan initially but cutting aid from a donor country can lead to sudden inflation and poverty which leads to extremist groups rising which could REALLY cause a national threat (this is exactly what happened with the Treaty of Versailles in World War I). I do not believe any country is obligated to provide aid to another country unless there's an alliance of some sorts or a contract, etc. If the world was perfect, foreign aid wouldn't be needed but the world isn't perfect which means that, unfortunately, some compromises have to be made.
In conclusion, I believe that no country has an obligation to provide aid to another country unless there's a reason and if foreign aid is given then it shouldn't be suddenly cut since that causes more instability and can lead to more national security threats popping up which extend far beyond the reach of simple terrorism or militia groups and devolve into actual armed conflicts.
I think countries should not reduce foreign aid just to spend more on defence because helping people in need is very important. Governments should protect their own country, but they should also support countries that are suffering from war, poverty, or natural disasters.
I believe this because BBC News has reported that foreign aid provides food, clean water, and medical care to people in crisis. Without this help, many families would struggle to survive.
Some people argue that defence should come first because keeping citizens safe is the government’s main job. However, I think there should be a balance. Helping other countries can also create peace and make the world safer in the long term.
I think helping people who are suffering should always come before weapons and defence. There are people all over the world suffering from war and famine, and if governments can help them, then shouldn't they do everything in their power? We should be spending money on aid that could save people, not on weapons that could kill people. Governments need to think more about how their decisions are going to impact people, and show empathy. While they're sitting in office buildings doing paper work, people are dying.
You may think that governments need to spend a lot of money on defence, to help protect people, but do they? Should they? Shouldn't all disagreements be resolved by peaceful debate instead of violence? I know that this is idealistic, and most likely not achievable, but I still think it is what we should aim for.
Also, if governments spend money on technology such as nuclear weapons, then people would be able to kill millions, or even destroy the entire world if they wanted to. No one should have that kind of power.
Governments have limited money, so choosing between defence and foreign aid is challenging. In my view, the right decision depends on a country’s level of security and stability.
Defence spending is important because every nation must protect its citizens and borders. If a country faces real external threats or regional conflict, prioritising defence is reasonable. A government’s first duty is to keep its people safe. However, not all countries face the same dangers. If a country is politically stable, has strong alliances, and is relatively safe from outside threats, it does not need to keep increasing military spending.
Once a country already has a strong and well-developed defence system, extra spending brings fewer benefits. In that situation, investing more in foreign aid makes greater sense. Aid helps improve health, education and infrastructure in poorer nations. Besides, it can prevent crises such as hunger, disease and conflict. By supporting stability abroad, foreign aid can actually reduce global tensions and make the donor country safer in the long term.
Cutting aid completely to fund defence is short-sighted. Military power deals with problems after they appear, while aid helps address the causes of instability. Therefore, countries that are secure should focus more on helping others, while those facing genuine threats may need to spend more on defence.
The best approach is balance. True security comes not only from strong armies, but also from supporting peace and development around the world.
Hello topical Talkers,
I think aid is the most important because it helps people who are poor, hungry or living through disasters or wars. Some countries do not have enough money to give food, clean water, schools or hospitals to their people. I believe this because aid can save lives and give people hope for a better future. As long as there is aid that helps countries work together, There is no need for fights or wars. Defence is also important to protect people but helping others through aid should come first to make the world safer and more peaceful. 🕊️
I think defence comes in because, you have to know how to defend yourself before defending other people, so that you understand the concept of how you will defend other people. I believe this because for example, you do not know how to ride a bike and another person also doesn't know how to ride a bike too and you want to teach that person, it won't make sense, you do not know how to ride a bike and you want to teach another person, so as to defending, if you want to defend and give aid another country, you must have a stable foundation. On contrary I also think giving aid to other countries(Humanitarian Aid) is important because, when a country is facing hardships because of war or anything else, they need immediate attention because an attack can happen anywhere, anytime. You can give aid if you notice your country is not facing any challenges and others are. So I go for both defense and aid because if you are able to balance the amount of money you will use to defend your country and give aid to other countries, there will be no problem at all.
I think both is as important as each other but aid a bit more as you could use defence to be prepared for any upcoming wars or attacks.As people might not attack knowing you have defence and you would win.But investing in aid can also help protect as if you aid another country you can allie and they can help you if in need.Aid would also be help full as if some one got shot they would need medical attention straight away where as buying defence like guns is expensive and will not be used as much a aid would be used; aid could also sae so many peoples lives.
Thanks for reading kind_cheetah.
I think both aid and defense are important because if half of a country is being under attack by another country you will need to help your self before you help others in other countries . If you don't protect your self and your country and you send aid to other countries how would you save your self and your people that is why aid is important . Defense is important too because it helps in stability and it protects your people. It is used to stop domestic and other peoples policies with the force of threats that is why both aid and defense are important.
In my opinion,to give aid is more important than to defend, because when you help another country when they need it , they might help your country when they need it too . Foreign aid can also build diplomatic relationships to help one another.Two country can forget strong diplomatic relations if they didn't help each other during challenging times. So I believe to give aid is better than to defend.
Thank you.
Aid should come first because the lives and welfare of the people in those countries receiving aid are very important. Donor countries should remember what the universal declaration of human right said about the sufferings of people, a pack which they also signed. they should put aside their interest for the greater good of humanity. once the AID has relieved the suffering people then, they can take care of defense.
In my opinion, defense comes first because the security and protection of a country is very vital. Without defense, a country may be open to external threats endangering the lives of the citizens, and if anything eventually happens to the citizens, the need for aids will no longer be necessary because the people that make up the country are no longer there, and even if it comes it will not reach its intended aims.
Also, it is the fundamental responsibility of the country to protect the citizens. With great defense, a country will be able to maintain stability and order within its borders because the mind of the people are at rest which is also critical for economic growth, social development, and allows for negotiation from a point of strength.
Although aid is important in a country, it is secondary to the primary goal of putting in security.
I think aid is more important because if someone is in pain they need aid to stay good and stay healthy.I think that defence is helpful because if you need to be safe for a war you can build a defence and stay safe but aid is more important.
I agree because I think that aid is more important than awareness because people who are ill and are suffering need aid because they need help to survive. They don't need to be aware that they are sick, they need food, medications, etc to cure the illnesses. For instance, in the cases of natural disasters or calamities, spreading awareness isn't mandatory in saving people's lives. However, other forms of aid such as medical assistance, food, shelter and care save lives.
I agree because I think that aid is more important than awareness because people who are ill and are suffering need aid because they need help to survive. They don't need to be aware that they are sick, they need food, medications, etc to cure the illnesses. For instance, in the cases of natural disasters or calamities, spreading awareness isn't mandatory in saving people's lives. However, other forms of aid such as medical assistance, food, shelter and care save lives.
I think that some richer governments should help poorer countries with education , food , health and housing because in some countries they are having floods and wars so they won’t really be able to supply/afford thing that will keep them safe and secure. I also think that if a certain country had a war and they were a poor country I would try not to get involved in the war but I would also want to help them with food and education during the war .
I think foreign aid is the most important because if other people are suffering you could save their lives but if say like a earthquake happened in the country you are in then you would want defence to save your life.🌎
I think defence is important but aid from foreign countries giving aid is more important than defence so I think aid from foreign country’s is more crucial. In addition, the army would be wounded if they haven’t got foreign aid to help and they wouldn’t survive long even with defence. Enemies would overcome there defence forces.
Also, there defence forces will probably go down quickly if the enemy had foreign aid.
Foreign Aid is incredibly important because it supports communities facing instability or communicable disease. When communities are at risk, vital resources can be depleted rapidly, placing a significant burden on governments to provide investment or assistance to their citizens. Mismanagement of funds can lead to numerous adverse outcomes, highlighting the critical role foreign aid plays in safeguarding lives and well-being. Meanwhile, governments with limited money to spend should prioritise defense spending as a robust defense is essential to prevent dire consequences and avoid significant economic repercussions, such as loss of infrastructure. While developing global alliances to assist others is a noble goal, it should not come at the expense of a nation's fundamental security.
I think that people should send aid before defence, it will help them be more prepared for war. For example if a stronger country was attacking, we would have the right to defend ,ourselves and we could cure the people in need.
I think aid is more important because if anyone gets hurt in the world they will have the medical aid that they need. Defence will protect your country but you only are protecting yourself you are not protecting the whole world.
I think aid is not always needed first as if there is a country that is under attack but has the aid to survive it would be better to make defence and a little aid just in case there population growth increases drastically and food water and medicine becomes a problem without the aid they could eat to much and with no food or water. There could be a whole empty country and another big country could expand there territory and have more space to make weapons.
I think aid is more important than defence because if you give aid to countries in need then you will make allies and they will help your countries
I think that countries should spend more money on foreign aid because if they spend money to help others in other countries, those countries that they helped greatly, will then, as a sort of giving back, help defend this country that helped them. I could understand why some people might think that defence should always be put first because you cannot aid people when you can't defend your own country. But, I still believe that aid should always be put first because aiding others (as well as making you feel good) helps you to make 'friends' with other countries, so if there suddenly was a war, you would know that there was always a country that would 'have your back' if you needed support. Also, if your country suddenly needs aid during a hard time, the country you once aided could always give you a helping hand and a 'push' to help you move forward.
Foreign aid should not be reduced to increase defence spending because foreign aid helps stop problems before they become security threats. Problems like poverty, lack of education, poor living conditions, and bad governance can lead to conflict and war. These problems do not stay in one country, they can affect the whole world.
The military is also important because it protects the country from attacks, but it does not solve the root causes of instability. If foreign aid is reduced, social and economic problems will grow. This can lead to wars, terrorism, and a large number of people migrating to other countries. History shows that strong armies alone cannot create peace. Many modern conflicts happen because of the instability and inequality, which aid helps reduce.
Some people argue that governments should take care of their own citizens first, especially during hard times. This is a fair point. However, foreign aid can protect a country's long-term security. By providing food, healthcare, education, and disaster relief, foreign aid prevents crisises froom becoming bigger problems.
Foreign aid also helps build good relationships between countries. When nation ssupport each other during disasters or economic problems, trust and cooperation increase. Therefore, defence and foreign aid should work together. Defence handles immediate dangers, while foreign aid reduces future threats, helping create a safer and more stable world.
I guess it depends which country the aid is coming from, if I was running a less powerful country with fewer resources I would focus on our own defence over financial aid. I do understand that lives are at stake and that anything does help but I think that you should be selfish in this situation.
If a country if relatively well off and doesn't have any major issues or internal crisis financial aid should be the priority, the amount of lives saved would probably be much more significant than the budget increase.
Hi topical talkers, I think defence is most important because you need defence to help other people stay safe because if you're aiding them where's the defence? The enemy could just come in at any moment and take you hostage.I think if you defend first you won’t need to aid as much.I believe this because you won't need to aid if you defend because of cause and effect.The cause is you defending your team or group, therefore less people to aid.This is why I think you shall do defence first,then aid.
I think it depends whether you should spend more on aid or defence depending on what is happening in your country. If you are at war you need to spend more money on defending yourself and not on other countries. However, if you are not at war you should help out other countries otherwise they will not help you when you need it most.
I think it is important to spend money on defence too, otherwise you will be in need of more aid when at war as you do not have the facilities to protect your country.
Defense should be first because greedy and selfish Prime Ministers will take aid and defense will help to stop wars and viruses for people. It will save many lives from dying in war and sickness. Defense is guaranteed to make a difference meanwhile aid can go to selfish hearts and rude souls.
I think it is important to give aid money to help help other country because it is the kind thing to do and it helps others. Although countries only have limited money, they should spend some of it on aid. I think they should use some of their money for defence otherwise they will not be able to defend themselves in war. The rest of the money should then be spent on aid, if you help other countries when they need it most then they are more likely to help you out when you need it.
I think countries should be careful about reducing foreign aid to spend more on defence. Defence is important because governments need to keep their people safe, especially if there are real security threats. Without enough defence, a country could be vulnerable to attacks or pressure from other countries.
However, foreign aid is also very important. Aid helps people in poorer or crisis-hit countries get food, healthcare, education, and clean water. Cutting aid can make life much harder for people who already have very little, and it can lead to more poverty and instability in the long run.
Overall, I think it should not be an “either aid or defence” choice. Countries should try to balance both. Spending wisely on defence while still supporting foreign aid can help keep a country safe and also help create a more stable and fair world.
I think that countries shouldn't reduce foreign aid because if they do when they have a flood or a war and need help the other countries won't help them also the other countries will think they're generous,kind and helpful.
Around the world, governments face a difficult decision when allocating limited resources. Defence usually are spending focuses on protecting a nation from external threats, maintaining military strength, and ensuring national security. On the other hand, aid aims to improve living conditions, reduce poverty, respond to humanitarian crises, and promote global stability. For me, both are important, but when the budgets are limited, governments must decide which should come first. Defence is necessary to protect national sovereignty, and aid should be prioritized in most circumstances because it addresses the root causes of insecurity, promote long term stability, and creates a safer world. Honestly, aid refers to financial, technical, and humanitarian assistance that are provided to countries and or communities in need. This includes emergency aid during natural disasters, development aid for education and healthcare. Aid can be given by the governments, international organizations, or non governmental organizations.
personaly if counterys are doneating to other counterys i think we could stop and spend on ourselfs for a bit beacause the other countrerys are still giving aid money so thats a reason but if other counterys wernt if we we goinbg to go to war i would focus on our countery then we we have supposedly won the war we would start donating again
I think that countries should reduce foreign aid because if you're spending on them you will run out of money for yourself and kids. Also you need that money to get you and your kids some food and water. Also it means that if a country went to war we have enough resources to protect and defend our country.
I think aid is most important because it can help us .I believe this because people it can save other countries that need saving. And it can save a lot of people's lives if there is a war going on in their county and if there are people that are hurt they will need a person that can help them. And people would need lots of food and water-aid is not just about sending help it really helps a lot of people that need it. More people every day get really hurt people need aid a lot and people need good helpers so when they are really hurt they can treat them and get lots of help.
I think that defence is most important because if you do not have good you might have more aid . I believe this because the British leaders have cut aid by 0.2% which is not a lot but it could really help a country in need of aid because of war so defence is important.
I think that countries should reduce foreign aid because if you're spending on them you will run out of money for yourself and kids. Also you need that money to get you and your kids some food and water. Also it means that if a country went to war we have enough resources to protect and defend our country.
I think aid is the most important because it helps other countries in need. Also, if you were to go to war, then the other countries are more likely to help you and provide aid as you helped them when they needed it. Aid helps provide food, water, money and medical supplies to help reduce the amount of deaths and help the country out, I think this is very important because it can save other countries as well as your own.
Although it is important to spend money on defence so you can protect yourself against a war, I still think aid is more important as it helps people who are in need now.
I think aid is definitely more important because defence shows violence but aid shows care and respect for other people.Forgetting about aid,education, poor or sick can mean wars and influence people to do bad things and that is why we should be careful and not spend it all on things like defence.Aid help fix these problems and make eveyone care for eveything.Aid could also be used for friendship and that means that people do not have to be brutal or anything and they can just learn to be caring and loving.
I think aid is definitely more important because defence shows violence but aid shows care and respect for other people.Forgetting about aid,education, poor or sick can mean wars and influence people to do bad things and that is why we should be careful and not spend it all on things like defence.Aid help fix these problems and make eveyone care for eveything.Aid could also be used for friendship and that means that people do not have to be brutal or anything and they can just learn to be caring and loving.
I think aid is the most important because it helps other countries in need. Also, if you were to go to war, then the other countries are more likely to help you and provide aid as you helped them when they needed it. Aid helps provide food, water, money and medical supplies to help reduce the amount of deaths and help the country out, I think this is very important because it can save other countries as well as your own.
Although it is important to spend money on defence so you can protect yourself against a war, I still think aid is more important as it helps people who are in need now.
I think financial aid is the most important use of government money because it helps people who really need it and can fix problems that affect their lives and the world.Many countries face hunger, sickness, poverty and disaster and they don't have enough money to handle this problem alone. I believe this because in 2022, financial aid helped give vaccines to over 90 million childrens in developing countries which stopped deadly diseases and saved many lives and also I have seen on news that children had vaccines and where able to go to school for the first time because of financial aid. Financial aid also provide food, clean water, medical help, schools and emergency support which solves urgent problem and help community to get back on their feet faster. When basic needs are met people can go to school, work and live safely which also reduce fights and make countries more stable and I know Defence is important too but spending more money on it doesn't solve problems like hunger or sickness right? people first can stop small problems from becoming big ones and That's why I believe government should focus on financial aid while still keeping enough money for defence, Do you think my opinion is right or not? Thank You!
Aid is more important because someone could be needed when their in danger during a war and they might end up losing their lives and defence is 50 per-sent important because you might not know what's coming at you and it's really important to protect your teammates just inncase they die in any specific danger.
I think that we should not reduce foreign aid because if there was a flood we could send them food,water,medicine,doctors,teachers and shelter and we would send the right things at the right time. They would think we are kind and respectful also they would help,as if we needed help from another country they would help us because we were kind to them.
I think aid should come first because it is important to help others. Also if you are injured you will need aid to then be able to help the rest of your country.
Aid can provide a country in need with water, food, medical supplies and shelter for those in need. This can help save many peoples lives. Also if you help other countries by providing aid then they are more likely to help you when you need it most.
I believe this because of topical talk lessons which gave me evidence .
I think that aid should not be reduced because the country providing aid might need to keep providing if the receiving country struggles by itself .
The country providing the aid might also be able to provide for its own military taking from the taxes, even if the military only
receives a tiny percentage.
I believe some countries may only send aid to benefit them or make their own country look good and stand out to other countries to increase their popularity or how they look in different views of different people.
I believe this because of evidence I have found out in topical talk lessons.
I agree with independent musician as he has fair reasons.
Hi quiet_argument, that's an interesting point! Can you tell us more about what you've learned in Topical Talk lessons or elsewhere that leads you to believe that?
I think that countries could team up but I would recommend to get the Aid first to help the people that are injured then send the defense after to keep them safe after so they might win the war so nobody is hurt anymore. They can now all send Aid when ever they want.
I think that countries should reduce aid because some countries could get dependent on the other countries to help even if the prime minster could steal the cash and not give it to the countries. so I think defense goes first.
Aid is very important because it could save a lot of people and many people are in wars. So lots of people need aid at the time. People need food water and helpers so if they ever get hurt. The can get help from people and people need to get food for there family's so if there is no one there to work the people will not get food.
I think foreign aid because if we send aid to another country they would probably help us because we helped them.Also after they all are helped they'll probably send guns,tanks,etc.I know this because Norway is consistently rank highest in foreign aid per Capita,often dedicating 1% of its GNI to aid.Giving aid is better than to try to defend by force.
I think countries should not reduce foreign aid to spend more on things like defence because if one country aids another country when they are down or defenceless, the country that gave the aid could gain an allie, and the allie could help fight in a war to repay the country that helped them.
I think that aid is most important because if your going to defend yourself your going to need aid so you should get aid first so you wont bleed out or get an infection ect. one piece of evidence is"Addressing Global Threat: Foreign aid directly manages threats like pandemic diseases." this supports my claim because how can you defend you and the people you're fighting for when you have a disease that makes you vulnerable and will end up killing you anyway.
I think aids are most important because it's an investment in peace and stability. It leads to fewer conflicts, less poverty and global instability, creating allies and keeping us all safe in the process of it. It could also impact a country's economy. Aid fosters growth through investments and infrastructure, health, and education. This helps build capacity for long term development. However, aid won't always help. Its effectiveness varies, sometimes leading to debt. I think one piece of evidence is Cato.org, which explains how foreign aid has helped develop countries economic growth due to aid, and shows how it had a significant impact.
Foreign aid is an important part of a country's economy, helping to support that country. Therefore, I think governments should consider spending more money on aid.
I think that countries should not decrease aid money given to other countries because they will keep their money to themselves, but if they increase their money and be kind then when they need aid money they might get some money for being kind . If you give money you can be kind and if you need help sometime you can get a reward back .
I think that aid should come much more ahead than defense as it is not just the unharmed that matter in a country, it is aiding to the poor and sick. But, if defensive lines are weakening then there still wont be enough money to aid to the defenseless. Also defense can cost a lot of money regardless of foreign or local places giving them support . Then again,closing borders will maybe attract more conflicts and arguments, resulting in wars.
I think that they should reduce their foreign aid to other countries but keep some of it. For example if their was a war and you are a leader of a country right next to the country in war, then they ask for some resources to help with the battle then you would want to help. However, your country might be invaded next since your country is right next door, so you would need to save some resources incase your country is next to be in war with them.
I don't think that either should be put forward as aid helps you to team and be owed with other countries. However defence makes a difference with wars and other things but the effectiveness of both is great. I feel that it should have an even split when using money. If we aid other countries they will aid back and hopefully there could be a truce and a friendship between countries and therefore giving aid does make a massive difference.
I think that if a government has a budget they could split it in half so for example if you had 500000 you could give 250000 to poorer countries so that it is fair for everyone- so you're still in budget but splitting it up fairly. Because it is your money you could give them 200000 and just make it absolutely fair for everyone and not have judgmental and biased opinions made about your country. Aid can become power and anyone who welcomes aid will take the aid for someone else and AID MUST LAST. This is because if you're giving hundreds of thousand of pounds to a country to support them with aid, then it has to last, it can't just be useful for a couple of weeks, it has to be used responsibly with donor countries and they shouldn't get their aid at random times. They need it at the right times when they're struggling- they don't only need things like food they also need medicine. Of course they need food but everyone thinks it all about food food food, but if they get food poisoning they will need medicine so if you help with aid and help them with your money they will help you in the future when you need it.
I think spending more on defence before giving foreign aid is most important because a country must be safe in order to help others. I believe this because governments must protect their citizens and resources first, especially since rich countries can become targets. Globally, defence spending is over 2 trillion US dollars a year, and many nations spend 2–4% of GDP on defence, showing that security comes before international support.
However, foreign aid is still essential because it helps poorer and unstable countries move towards stability and development. Most developed countries spend under 0.5% of GDP on foreign aid, yet this small amount supports healthcare, education, and development for hundreds of millions of people. Research shows that development aid improves stability and help these countries become reliable partners and allies instead of future threats.
In conclusion, a country must protect itself first, but supporting others also protects the future. True security comes from strong defence and smart foreign aid working together.
I think that not reducing foreign aid is most important because I think it is better to help others in need by sending food, water and shelter instead of sending defence. I believe this because food, water and shelter is more important at first and is needed immediately after a problem and then you send in weapons and defence its not just about sending things its about sending the right things at the right time.
personally I think the money should be split equally between foreign aid and defense as I believe they are both very important things for helping us and other countries
From my point of view, countries should not reduce international aid to spend more on defense. Defense is, without a doubt, very important for protecting a country from potential threats, but I believe that international aid plays a fundamental role in the development of our world, as it can improve living conditions, support the most vulnerable populations, and even reduce poverty.
International aid can also help prevent future conflicts because it aims to improve stability in poorer countries. This shows that international aid is not only a moral duty but also contributes to the security of countries.
In conclusion, I believe that international aid is essential for creating a fairer and safer world. Therefore, governments should maintain a balance between the two areas.
I think they should balance it between when a serious war approaches for example (if a country believes they have a threatening outbreak of a war. They should make it so that the enemy and the person who started defending their country than supplying aid like sustainability infrastructure and essential resources like water food and allergy friendly because sometimes aid is key but in a deadly crisis of maybe bankruptcy or near country extinction country defense should BE ABSOLUTE ALWAYS PRIORITY.
I think that countries should not keep sending aid because some countries can be taking all the aid from people in need like people in war and many more. This is called corruption. However it is not all the countries that do this, but there are many countries that do it. Also, if we give all of our money to other countries then we will have very little left for us- we could go bankrupt or we could not afford to protect and look after our country and our people.
Can you tell me which countries do this?
I think giving to people in need is important because people need money, food and shelter. if we give aid then population may rise. this can be a good thing and a bad thing because the country could get over populated but could also have more farmland to make aid for other countries.
I think countries should keep aid because if you don't have aid you wont have food and clean water . Also if you provide aid the countries think you are kind so you don't have to put up defences because they wont attack you and you can be friends. Then the poor also cant get any food. They should also think about the citizens more than the countries defence .
i think aid because then if you do war fist what is the point if there already almost dead from a sickness
I think countries should not spend all of their money on aid in stead we should spend it on defending all of ur countries to make it safer so we can have a better world and we should spend a bit of money on aid to help the world if something goes wrong all of us can help the country to make a better world so they can stop wars and help everyone in the world to make a better future and stop being rude so we can all work as a team in the world for a better future a world
I think defence should come first because we need to be aware in case another country attacks us but I still think we should give money to the NHS the English National Health Service it’s been running for a long time but I still think defence should come first
I don’t think that countries should just spend money on defence and not care about other people, I think that is just caring for themselves and not care for other people.That means that if a country is in a war, they will have a great chance of not surviving it. That means people would not get any health care even if they have an injury and that is going to cause people to struggle
I don’t think that countries should just spend money on defence and not care about other people, I think that is just caring for themselves and not care for other people.That means that if a country is in a war, they will have a great chance of not surviving it. That means people would not get any health care even if they have an injury and that is going to cause people to struggle
I think aid is more important because aid Is giving countries food ,water and shelter where defence if just fighting with an army while leaving the people who are victims of a war left to starve or get hit by a bomb
Aid also includes defence so it is basically paying for more when you get less. Also the country you are sending the aid to most likely has defence but not food and water . Aid also helps people who are defending the country by giving them shelter food ,water and shelter .aid also helps out the country financially and academically and carry’s on helping them after they win the war ,while defence just helps them while the war then leaves them in a mess
So overall my opinion is they aid is better .while defence is still a fantastic way to help out a country I think aid is better.
I think that aid is a good option because it helps other countries, builds friendships and we will have less war coming to our country, but if we want to defend ourselves, we need to use the money on us and think: do we want to help others and risk our lives, or help ourselves?
I think aid is more important if there is a war going on in another country then you can help by sending paramedics, doctors, food or clothes. Also if the other county try and invade you then hopefully they will have your back and will help you.
Then if you get invaded you will have the defence to protect your country and the help from others.
I think countries should do what they think is best for them, where as smaller countries may do what bigger countries and allied countries do, both matters are very important as aid can obviously help many people with diseases so they can get the support they need, where defences can protect countries from enemy fire and wars.
First of all, aid is very important and influential because aid can save lives and can increase population of countries which can help with climate change as more people can increase global warming and climate change.
I honestly think that aid and defence are both important because it both affects the country at large but of I were to pick I would say defence because if a country can defend it self well it will reduce the amount of casualty in the country and will use less aid. But should not forget about those who are homeless in their country due to war and try to support them in what ever way they can. And with treaties the war can be ended and they can live in peace.
Hi, topical talkers.
Speaking from my point of view, I feel it is necessary to prioritize defense over aid, because if every country has a form of defense, the need for aid will be minimal, as defense protects a nations people, infrastructure and countless others; while aid only responds when damage has already been caused. In conclusion, if defense is placed at the forefront, countries can limit the conditions that create the need for aid in the first place.
Thank you!!!
As a group, we asked the question:
would you rather help those in need or invest into greater weapons?
As a collective we decided on helping those in need because if we were in that position we would want others to help us.
This lead to our discussion resulting in the conclusion that we think that aid is most important, for a variety of reasons. The first one being aid will not just support a country, we are helping the people who live there for example water and houses are necessities that everyone needs and has a human right to receive. If people who live in these countries, that need aid, are not fit, healthy and safe they will struggle to provide a strong and passionate defence for the country. Struggling lives need help, they should be a priority.
If we take the current conflict with Ukraine and Russia as an example, Ukraine are not as strong and powerful as Russia, if they have more support they have a better chance of being on equal terms with Russia, making this a fair fight. We can give them support by providing them with money and supplies.
Hello! I am Illuminated Owl and today I am going to discuss if it is more important defence or giving aids.
Defence is essential in case of wars or attacks and all countries must have it to protect their population. This protection must be the best, with really prepared soldiers and with the best weapons, so that the danger to the citizens is minimum.
However, in many cases, this military aid is provided by other countries during times of war; as well as food, medicines and many other supplies; even doctors or other specialized ones to take care of the people. As well as defence, international aids are very important. This can be seen by countries that, despite living a bad situation ( wars, food shortages, an illness affecting its population...), still send support to other areas.
In my opinion, international aid shows generosity between other countries and helps during the worst situations, giving hope to the inhabitants of the area with basic supplies that make them to live as normal during these moments. From my point of view, international aid is much important than defence, because they can be needed in any moment, not only due to conflicts; and because they help to the local people rather than to the protection of the area. However, this changes depending on the situation. In many cases, international aid is needed for more than during wars, but if there is a conflict, defence is also very important, and in some cases, defence is more required tha international aid, for example, in countries that are near war terrains but that are not in the conflict.
In my opininion defence should became first than aid because for example if we don't have any defence we could suffer a crisis meanwhile we are helping other countries with aid that is the step after you have no any defence.Also I think that part of the aid they give to other countries a part need to be back if you are in any crisis period.It is more important that you invest money in your countries defence than in give aid to countries which these doesn't mean that you don't give aid to other countries but it mean that is better to invest in your countries defence.
From my point of view, countries should not reduce the amount of money that they spend on foreign aid due to the fact that helping each other is the key point of humanity and is a crucial step to achive a peaceful and safe world. Moreover, give a hand to other countries means strengthen bonds and form alliances that if whether long or short term future the country have political or warlike issue those countries will help the nation.
In think it's more important to defend your country than to help other, but this depends on the situation, if your country is wealthy or it can maintain without defending it, then I would prefer for my country to help others, but if my country has received an attack, or it sufffers a big problem, then I would chose defend it over helping others. I believe this because since we were children, the mayority of the people told us to help others, but no one told us to care about us, and now, that I am older I think about it and prefer to be in peace with my self and healthy than help other people who maybe wouldnt want to give me a hand if a was in their situation. So this is my opinion but I understand others views.
I think, helping others in needs is more important than spending more money on defence, because you can stop wars, but you can't stop the lack of food or illnesies because of the unconmfortable conditions such as the poor hygiene or as I have said before because of the lack of food.
So I think the money to provide them food, water, and all the necessities they need is more necessary than spending the money on defence for wars, which is not compulsory to made it.
I think aid is most important because most countries need help or support to help make or build a defence. So I think aid from foreign countries can help bring materials to build and protect the country in need. I believe this because part of defence is materials. What if the country doesn't have what they need to build a defence? Then aid is there to help! With aid, materials, help, and money it helps that country to build and protect themselves. For example, a country can give and offer another country money and the help they need. With aid, that is the start of a defence. It is more important to have what you need to make a defence. Without help, defence takes longer and a lot of money. That is a problem because the enemy has more time to strike. That is why I think aid is more important than defence.
Hi! I think countries should not cut foreign aid just to spend more on defence because both are important in different ways. Defence is needed to keep the country safe, but foreign aid helps make the world more stable by reducing conflicts and helping with disasters.
As much as aid is truly important, I think defence is also important. For example, (According to my topical talk lesson today) UK spending on aid has dropped from 0.5-0.3% to make room for spending for military. I think that it is a fair reason because as much as aid is a good thing because it gets that country's alliance, we also need to protect this country (Mine being the UK), incase we end up in WW3, which is more likely now than a decade ago. Also, some countries the UK give money to have a corrupt government, which instead of spending money to make their economy and people more better and happier, that PM or President is spending it on more selfish things.
In general, I think HIC (High Income Countries) can still spend money on aid, but they would need to be wise on how much that specific country need, and would it be used wisely. They would also need to still save that money on the side for defense and miltary.
No, I don't think countries should reduce foreign aid to spend more on defence because it could bring lots of backlash. First, if a country spent a lot of money on war instead of aiding foreign countries, and it was shown to the public, they would get hate, not only from social media, but global leaders, too! If it causes a conflict, especially with a strong country, it would most likely not end up well for the country that reduced the aid. Also, many countries are in need, so if you reduced foreign aid to a country in need, it would likely be the most selfish and greedy thing ever. You are putting millions of lives at risk by not helping. They could die from sickness, starvation, or living in nasty spaces. Reducing aid to another country could cause the loss of an ally. However, it could be understandable if the country was running out of money to give away. It's not that you can't cut a little money from the aid, it's just that you can't cut too much. You could maybe take away 10-15% of the money, and it would be completely fine. I noticed that during the activities we did, the correct choices were often the ones that were best for your reputation, not saving for yourself. For example, one of the correct options was to continue to support people and countries in war by giving them money as the number 1 answer, and giving them weapons as the number 2 answer. Therefore, countries can reduce funds toward other countries for some defence, but just not too much, and because it would cause a loss of help in future wars, and possibly cause a war.
In my opinion defence and aid are both equally important. Also at the same time I had to choose one I would pick defence.
Defence is what is going to help you if you are in trouble. Also I think you need defence in order to have aid because back when we were at war with Iraq we needed to be able to defend ourselves. Having the resources to use heavy artillery, fighter jets, and firearms, is very important to protect ourselves when we are being threatened by an enemy. But also aid is needed to be able to help a neighboring country when they are in danger. So yeah like I said defence is always first in my book. When it comes to aid, aid is important because it keeps people safe, healthy, and alive. Aid is very good to keep good relationships with allies and neighbors. I had a very delightful time speaking with you all. GoodByeee🥲
Hello all Topical Talkers, I am tenacious_piccolo! I think both aid and defense are important because both are helpful because if people get injured we can help them but also there will still be defense for the country. Although this can also be bad because if they have more defense that keeps getting injured they might not be able to take care of all of them.They could end up like Sweden and Germany because they slashed aid for budgets to focus on Ukraine and defence spending,not like that's bad or anything! They also lowered defense for Europe and South Korea which means they won't have much defense and if they get into a war they might be severely injured. According to the news app New York Times,it says that the US has cut the aid budget in half. This means the other half went to defense which leaves the people in need and the injured will not have as much support as they used to. Also they might die from poor living expenses and being malnourished! This means that most of the population may not thrive. In conclusion,this is why I think none of Aid or Defense should be cut off for one another.
Farwell, fellow Topical Talkers!
I think foreign aid should come before increased defence spending because supporting people in crisis is one of the most important responsibilities a country has. When nations face disaster, conflict, hunger or disease they often cannot recover without outside help. Aid provides food medicine shelter and education and it can prevent small emergencies from turning into long term instability. I believe this because evidence shows that when countries invest in development and humanitarian support they help create safer and more stable regions. That stability reduces the need for military actions and build stronger international relationships. Defence is necessary but it cannot replace the impact of saving lives, reducing suffering and giving communities the chance to rebuild. Prioritising aid shows that a country values human lives beyond its affects everyone. For me helping other is not a weakness: but it's a strategic and moral strength.
I think that aid should and always be put first rather than defence. I say this because aid can help other countries in need and you could get that aid or money back to you. In our topical talks session it stated that, countries will depend on you if they need financial support or any aid. So, we sometimes did not give any aid to other countries. Those people will think that we will not ever help others out and will believe that we are undependable. Then, we need aid, they will not help us because we weren't there when they needed help. If we give them support and aid however they will be there when we need them. However, others might disagree because countries need defence to survive from attacks and threats. But however, when having other countries on your side when you need them they can give you financial help and aid so that you do not need to buy defence with your own money. Instead you can use the money or aid the countries gave you to help build or make your defences. In conclusion, this is why I think aid should always come first rather than defence. I think that aid should and always be put first than defence. I say this because aid can help other countries in need and you could get that aid or money back to you. In our topical talks session it stated that,
I think that foreign aid is more important than defense because living in peace in my opinion is way more better that living in wars . And that's it.
I think Aid is most important because Aid helps you and its gives you a better understanding.
I basically agree too because, if aid money decreases it might cause more conflicts, and more wars in many places.
I think defense is more important because of it being stronger. With defense it gives you the ability to protect yourself as you get resources. Without defense you are vulnerable while you try to get resources. This means you could be attacked harder than with defense. I know this from," Brookings.edu" where it says that the Venezuelan president was kidnapped when in a vulnerable position after having his country attacked. This shows a case where without defences they are attacked in some way due to being vulnerable. When this happens it can lead to something very bad for the country happening. I can see how others can choose aid instead. Although aid is good and can help someone's side in a war, it isn't as good as defenses are due to the fact that without defenses you can get resources. In conclusion, this is why I believe in defenses over aid.
I think aiding is better than choosing to defend. I believe this, because aiding can make allies rather than making enemies. Defending can make your country lose reputation from defending rather than aiding. Aiding can have many benefits, like making allies, more reputation, no enemies/war, etc. Defending can have many major consequences, such as making less allies, more enemies, and less reputation. Countries will complain about everything for not helping a local country in need. This is why aid is the safest choice, due to people backlashing people for doing nothing. If you aid someone they will help you back instead of making enemies with them. For example France helped the U.S, so later on when they needed help in WW1/WW2 the U.S helped them by providing aid. Defense is kind of useless and money consuming, due to a lot of backlash. Aid can improve countries bonds, but on the other hand Defending can make people look at you selfish.
I think aid is more important than defence because defence is when you only think of your country and ignore the countries in need of help. An example of when countries giving aid is when Ukraine and Russia were in war and America gave billions of dollars to Ukraine to help them. Aid is more important because it helps other countries so they feel safer than when they had no one to help them. But you can only give aid if your country is wealthy because if you gave aid when your country is not wealthy you will be the people needing help. Thank you listening to my comment byeeee 👋
I think countries should not reduce foreign aid to increase defence expenditure.Defence will protect us but,if we spend more money on defence we will go out and fight then a lot of us would get hurt.If a lot of us got hurt, it wouldn't be enough aid for everyone. If it's not a enough aid for everyone some of us would die, then we would go low on soldiers.After we go low on soldiers we would lose the battle, and the country we lose to might take over and try to rule our country.In my opinion aid is more important than defence.Do you agree?
Even though I believe both aid and defence are important, I would have to say aid is more important. The reason I think this is because aid is more helpful for other countries than defence. For example if another country is in war they will need aid for the money to repair the damages and resources for people who might need it. Another example is if a country needs money for restructuring schools and doesn’t have enough they could get aid from other countries to help. Countries that don’t have good healthcare or good educational systems really don’t need defence. They need help with the basics.
In my opinion foreign aid is most important because aid is able to help people that are alive but are really hurt. If the other country needs more help I think our country should give aid to the other country . Even if we spend more on defense what if nothing happens and we could have used some of that money for aid instead of using it on defense. Also when we give aid to other countries when they need it and then we need aid they can maybe give us some since we gave them. In class we had our own country and we were able to decide if we wanted to give aid to other countries. The first time we said no and since we said no we had to move back one. The other groups that did give aid were able to move either 1 step or 2 steps forward.
I believe that the government should pay for defense but still give out aid to foreigners and citizens in need. Once you stop giving out aid, people that live in severe weather conditions need medical attention and nourishment as soon as possible to be sustainable until the weather clears up. Defense is beneficial for Americans because war can harm citizens and the enviornment.
I believe that aid is more important, defense is good, but God has made us to be kind generous human beings so looking after those in desperate need would be the No 1 best thing and then, defense would come in. Since sometimes its not all about you, and you should always look after those less fortunate than you that's the true way God has raised us to be.
''Generosity is love in action - giving where its needed most.''
In my opinion, I'm in the middle because both can be dangerous. First, if we reduce aid and more on defence, the people that get injured in the defence and the injured can't find any aid because there is less aid. On the other hand, if there is more aid and less defence, the defence will be smaller and easier to invade.
Mostly, I agree with my first option although of the consequences conflicts inside of the countries. For instance, the Syrian Civil Wars. People were mad because some children protested with graffiti to the government. This has cause massive tension between people in Syria.
In conclusion, I agree with increasing defence and reducing aid.
I reckon that looking out for other countries rather than your own is crucial , especially when nearby countries are suffering more. As when you give aid and support to a suffering country that's slowly falling apart day by day could earn you assist during difficult times , since then you are gaining a countries trust and respectability which makes them think higher of you and often help you in crucial circumstances. I also believe this since during the 1840s, the Chocotaw nation, despite being themselves in immense pressure and pain, they sent aid to Ireland. Decades later, Ireland has become a great nation, then on a gesture of thankfulness , Ireland organizations have sent and provided aid resources to support Native American communities , including Chocotaw.
What do you think is more crucial during hard times?
I think countries should try to balance defense spending and foreign aid rather than reduce aid too much, because both national security and global stability are important. Governments do have a responsibility to protect their citizens, so defense funding is necessary. However, focusing too heavily on military power alone may not solve the deeper issues that cause conflict in the first place. A balanced approach ensures a country is protected while still contributing to global well-being.
I believe this because foreign aid can play a major role in preventing crises before they escalate. For example, aid that supports food security, healthcare, and education can reduce poverty and political instability in vulnerable regions. This links to topics like conflict prevention and human rights, since improving living conditions can lower the chances of war, forced migration, or extremism. In this way, foreign aid can actually support defense goals indirectly by creating a more peaceful and stable world.
It also connects to economic development and international relations. When countries provide aid, they often build diplomatic trust, stronger alliances and future trade partnerships. These relationships can improve global cooperation on issues like climate change, terrorism and pandemics. While defense protects a nation in the short term, foreign aid can create long-term security by addressing root causes of global problems. For these reasons, reducing aid too much could be harmful, and a balanced investment in both areas is the most responsible approach.
Countries have limited money, so governments must decide how to spend it carefully. Some people believe reducing foreign aid and spending more on defence is necessary to keep the country safe. They argue that without strong security, a nation cannot protect its citizens or remain stable. Defence spending can also help prepare for emergencies and threats.
However, others think cutting foreign aid is not the right choice. Foreign aid helps poorer countries deal with problems such as hunger, disease, and natural disasters. Supporting other nations can create peace, build friendships, and prevent conflicts in the future. In the long term, helping others may actually make the world safer for everyone.
In my opinion, countries should try to balance both needs. Governments must protect their citizens, but they should not ignore people in need around the world. A fair approach is to spend responsibly on defence while still providing meaningful foreign aid. This way, countries can stay safe and also act with compassion.
I think that countries should spend more on aid as this could benefit the country in the future. Alliances are built by supplying aid which mean you could trade,minerals and food with the country. Also if you have a war the country you gave aid to could help you win the war and rebuild the country. Whereas defence could keep you safe for the near future aid could also help millions of people by providing schools and a better standard if living for a brighter future. Overall I think countries should spend on aid because there are more benefits.
I think that countries should not lower the aid given to other countries to spend it on defence. I think this because if the country giving aid is going into war they might recieve aid in exchange from other countries. Another reason giving aid can also help prevent conflicts between world leaders in the first place. For example when a country is under poor living conditions and needs aid and some countries who may have recieved aid from the country in need before don't give aid and this can cause an outrage.
I think that countries should think of defence in international aid because, if a country was to attack the country using aid the supplier of the aid would probably go straight to defence not only to save the country from invasion or getting taken over but to also keep investing in the industry.
I think they should also focus on the health care and defence at the same time to protect their country and keep their citizens safe and healthy
I believe this because if war broke out they would need their citizens to help them protect the country but if they only focus on their defence the citizens would stave and will be to weak to defend their country against the war?
I think they shouldn’t because they shall run out of supplies to hill people and although
they put defences people inside the defence are still suffering
I think that everyone should have an equal amount of aid money because if they dont have a lot of access to medication or defence, then when you need medication they won’t give it to you.
You would make allies with the other countries , get access to more information about the country and others would count you as loyal. It is worth it if you want partnership with others.
You actually changed my opinion on this topic my original stance was that a leader is responsible for their citizens first and this is true but as you said diplomatic relations might actually benefit them more than just defence
Well done for changing your mind based on listening to someone else's perspective, that shows fantastic listening and critical thinking skills.
I think that we should share all our money because if you are running low on aid (medication) other foreign countries can help you and later you can help that same country when they are running low on medication and we can all be a big community working together and helping you up when you are in need all have peaceful world with harmony also we can have allies and be a helping hand whenever needed other country’s will count you as loyal and a brave hero some children are starving and you are satisfying their hunger and making peace
I think that countries should give aid money only if it’s for a good cause because some countries need it like those at war, experiencing floods or lack of food which means they need support/help they need us not to suffer or die we need to act not to be selfish, God teaches us good not bad to help not be selfish but to be selfless.
i think aid should be first because if you're defending you're gonna go to war and fight.you need to use aid to help get you money to rebuild buildings that got destroyed during war or else civilians homes, farms and local area will be gone meaning civilians can not longer live in the destroyed country.
Firstly I think both of these are important because, Aid gives things we need [blankets,food,water, resources,exd] .But defence is also major for it prepares us for attacks while also keeping us safe.But i think giving Aid to places that are not as fortunate may help them rebuild their country back and could furthermore help them in the future.As much as this could be the same with defence, most places aren't really in conflict right now and could most probably borrow or connect with other countries if anything happens.
Thats all please answer if you have any further debates!
I think aid because we need all the help we can get because if we did not have aid then a lot of people will be poorly 😷. People lives will be at risk and this could make people sad because we don’t have all the equipment we need.
I think aid is in first because if you are in a battle and you get hurt you cant heal yourself but with first aid you will heal in a matter of days but with no weapons you would be...quite useless and weak.
I think no because people should stop spending time making defence and more time to helping people that do not have enough money to survive. Defence is for wars that may or may not happen but there are already people in need who need help urgently right now.
I think that ourselves should come first and we should not send aid to other country's because when we need it we cant have it because we gave it to other country's so I think we should not give aid to other country's because it also put's are life's at risk.
I think aid is more important than defence because if people are hurt you can help them and then if you are hurt they will help you back for an example if two country's are fighting against each other and one country got like a serious injury you can give them aid and help them and be kind, respectful and helpful and then they will help you back .
Yesssss!!!!! because I’m not spending my money on other countries when other people in my country might not even have a house. You could spend it on better things like education and food and healthcare workers wages, I think this because they have one of the most important jobs in the whole world and they don’t get paid enough. I think we could put aside 2-4% of our taxes to pay for those things
Yesterday we did the lesson about this topic and I learnt some things like aid to other countries is important but also defence for your country is key to stay safe. But funding other schools, hospitals, and living standards is very important.
when we did the lesson in class we each got a made up country and everyone had different global credits I had a hundred where as others had thirty and forty. We had to make decisions about if we would give global credits to other people who needed it for hospitals, wars, and schools to fund.
Defence, because as I have mentioned in my earlier post, 40-50% of people receiving aid are people that have been affected by warfare, and if we could do something about this, fewer people would need aid. As I have always made mention of (even if I feel it is being overlooked), the kidnappings in Nigeria: young students are being attacked from their schools, and if there was more security, these kidnappings wouldn't have occurred, and we wouldn't be suffering the losses today.
So I believe that defence should have greater funding than aid because 'prevention is better than cure'.
today in school we did the topical talk and yesterday we all got different countries with other classmates and we had to pick what will the countries help with.
We learned about international aid and how to help other countries with a budget.
I think I would go for investing in aid it would help with damages and helping people who are hurt but defence could prevent further damages.
Still I would go with aid.
Willing starfish
I think protecting your country is most important because as much as it's great to help other countries. I believe this because if you are living in a country you should prioritize helping you citizens before you give support to other countries.
i think aid should come first because the place will need help AND then they will get defense .
I think that countries should spend more on defence than on foreign aid to protect themselves.
I think defense is more important although AID is good to help defense is more important. I believe this because what if your in a situation where you need money or food and you've given it away. Defense is a good resource because if you keep your food and water and DON'T give it away then when you in war or something what are you going to do if you have given away your resources then it's a bit harsh but your going to die. If you haven't had food or water for a few days it's going to happen because you haven't eaten or drank in days. But at the same time AID is good because you have given away and if you give away then you might ask for something and get something else back. This is why I'm partly in the middle but leaning towards defense more.
Thank you for your time.
I would pick aid personally I think it is important to help the whole world so we are all equal in the world not one place poor or one part not we should help and take care of each other because we are all-in this together and one person makes a difference please tell me if you feel the same way and if you are in with me please lets make a difference and bring our beautiful world together.
I think that we should build defense because rivalry is picking up between Iran and America some are worried that world war 3 is near . If 3-2% of our tax is going to defend it should also go to the homeless.
I think countries should help on giving aid on less fortunate nations because they might be in wars or natural disasters such as quakes and floods.
We need aid first because if the person gets hurt you need to get aid first.For the safety of the person and aid for the people and if you choose to do defence if u get hurt you won’t have the aid to help you when you are in need of help
I think buying aid for others is most important because helping others is more important. I believe this because most countries buy aid for other countries.
Hello, I am enchanted camel.
I think that countries should not decrease the aid given to other countries just to improve defense. This is mostly because, although in my opinion, defense is also crucial to win a war and to help local people, I think that aid is more important because it is not just about defending the country, but also about protecting the people, give them food, money and a place where they can rest and be confortable.
Regardless of being in a war, from my perspective, children should have a cozy and warm bed, as well as something to eat and continue being educated.
I believe that self defense is more important than little things which can be forgotten, but in times of crisis, war and suffering, the most crucial thing, in my opinion, is that everyone can have energy enough to fight in the war, and if there is not food enough for everyone, this wouldn't be possible.
I think defence is more important because when a country is under threat who really can help more than there military and defences. Furthermore, it causes economic disruption because of the influxes of many goods like seen in Africa which can destroy local industries.
Defence is important because when a country is under attack because the only way to stop the external or eternal attacks is by having a good defence. So if countries want to stay safe they should focus on defence. If countries keep looking to the future what are they going to do to keep the country safe for now?
The right thing to do is to use foreign aid because the government need to help other countries and people that in need instead of fighting other countries and people . Also why does the government want to go fight other countries , it just going to hurt the United States because if the United States fight other countries , the countries is going to fight back and it will hurt the United States .
I think you should try to balance both equally because defence is very important it keeps you safe. However, aid is equally important because aid is like a transfer of things like resources, food, shelter, and services etc. One example of defence, if a war happens and you have to defend yourself you won't just let them do what they want to do to you you would want to defend yourself and be safe. On the other hand, foreign aid can help too. An example is, seeing someone that is homeless or poor it might make you feel some type of way and you might want to feel generous. Also, most of the time when you do people a favor or if you are nice to them then they may return you a favor. In conclusion I think both defence and foreign aid need to be balanced.
I think spending more on things like defence because spending more on things like defence will actually make a difference. I believe this because defence is more important than foreign aid and you might not know what is in the foreign aid that they get, but when you defend yourself, you will be protected and at the same time fight for others. One example is that people in the army will make sure to have defence so that when it is time to defend themselves, they have defence mechanisms. If you have foreign aid, you will be spending your money on something that is unnecessary and that you might not even need.
In my opinion I think spending more on defence is the most important because when countries have defence it will protect them from other countries and keep them safe during war.I believe this because when war happens if a country doesn't have good enough defence it could cause any type of attack from the war people in the country if they are close enough to the war spot they could get hurt or worse killed which can cause more problems the war already is causing. Also if a country doesn't have enough defence they could lose the war and get evaded by the other country.
I hear your argument grateful_rock, what do you think of the comment that a stronger country should help protect its friends and neighbours if they can't afford to?
I think that countries should not reduce foreign aid just to spend more on defence because tro security actually begins with stability, trust, and humanity. I strongly believe that history shows that helping other nations in times of crisis built strong Global relationship while,focusing only on a single defence create fear and tension instead of peace.
I always remember that times when other countries stood behind us, helped us and supported India during our poorest situations.For example in the 2004 Tsunami, we had got an immense aid that made our population stand strong and our country will always feel grateful for them.
So, International aid shows as the value of a helping hand.
Defence is very crucial and every country has the right to protect their people, but if all the money goes only to army and weapons? what happens to the diplomacy,development and, disaster relief?
I believe that spending money in defence is just about investment, but giving aid is about winning people's heart!
Why countries should reduce foreign aid, for instance, a country that is dependant on external assistance will decrease it's chances of becoming self-reliant. Further more, the situation can worsen if aid is poorly managed leading to corruption and high level of inequality.
- Why countries need to spend more on defence is that the country will be able to deliver the stability that underpins economy growth and will unlock prosperity through new jobs skills and opportunities across the country.
Foreign aid should be discouraged because it increases debt burden and they production cost. It can make countries dependant on donors and interfere in their affairs.
Beyond Physical security, defence forces contributes significantly to national stability, growth, and well being. Looking at safe trade routes, secure energy supplies and the protection and critical infrastructures are all managed by defence tool.
Hello everyone!
I consider confidently that you shouldn't lower all of your money on aid just for defense. I think this because according to my research, in the Vietnam war, North Vietnam got aid by China and the Soviet Region, while South Vietnam got help from the US and other anti-communist allies. Because of it's aid from it's allies, North Vietnam won.
Arguably, you do need defense procedures in place for if your country unexpectedly goes into war pressure. Defense helps massively for if powerful (or weaker) countries declare war.
In conclusion, I think that aid > defense.