Our response to DFID and FCO merger

We are saddened and disappointed about today’s announcement of the merger of the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign Office. 

DFID has been a world leader in delivering expert aid to lift children, including girls, out of poverty through providing vital support such as healthcare and education to those most in need. In the last five years, at least 10 million women and girls have received humanitarian assistance, and over 14 million children have been able to access quality education. UK aid saves and transforms lives. 

As we respond to a global pandemic, it is more important than ever to ensure high quality aid continues to reach the people who need it most. It is crucial that the UK aid budget retains its key focus on reaching the world’s poorest people and is not diverted towards other areas like security or border controls. 

We will continue to monitor the details of this merger closely over the coming weeks and months, and will work to ensure that the UK’s future development agenda puts the rights and needs of adolescent girls at its heart.