Who should have the most say in how aid is used: the countries giving the aid or the communities receiving it?

I think that the communities receiving the aid should have most say.

Firstly, the communities themselves know what they lack the most and how the aid would benefit them. They are the ones that have to live and work in that environment and are able to recognise the areas in which they should spend the aid, rather than letting the donors do it themselves and spend the money randomly. Evidence from a journalist on Newswise supports my point saying: “ listening to communities and allowing them to decide on their priorities avoids inappropriate aid." This emphasises the fact that people's needs should be prioritised to ensure all aid is distributed appropriately.

Another reason is that many poor, underdeveloped countries have corrupt governments, therefore, when aid is sent out, they keep most of it for themselves. This can lead to long-term development goals, like reducing poverty and improving living standards, being obstructed. Furthermore, it can also result in quality of education to suffer when development funds are misappropriated. One example of this was provided in a study published in 2023 which revealed that the management of tertiary education in Nigeria has been negatively impacted by lack of funding as well as the mishandling and misappropriation of funds, with this having the greatest detrimental effect. (Source: developmentaid.org).

My final reason for the communities deciding how aid is used is that it leads them to learning and understanding how to manage development aid in the future and how to use it effectively. It spurs motivation and encourages them to develop new skills on how to handle the finances in the long term rather than relying on external support. This is known as community-led development, which fosters skills in budgeting and project management. (Source: AuditScotland).

A fellow topical talker had a contrasting opinion, stating that countries should decide how aid is used because it is their money and they have every right to decide how to invest it. However, I disagree with them because the external donors with little understanding of these societies, risk embarking on unnecessary, counterproductive programs.

In conclusion, I think that the communities understand their situations better than their donor countries and are more able to spend aid in the best way possible.

The development of the community starts from within and is not imposed by other wealthier, external powers. This way it is more stable, reliable and long lasting.

Community-led aid equals community well paid.

Thank you!