France’s proposed cuts to overseas aid come at a time when global crises are escalating, from conflicts to natural disasters. Millions of people depend on this aid for basic needs like food, water, and healthcare. With an 18% cut planned for 2024 (after a 13% cut last year), these decisions will have real-life consequences, putting vulnerable lives at greater risk. France has always been a leader in global humanitarian efforts, but these cuts could undermine that leadership when it's needed most.
What’s even more frustrating is that these cuts are completely avoidable. France’s aid budget is partly funded by the Financial Transaction Tax (FTT), a small 0.3% tax on share transactions. There are loopholes in this tax that, if closed, could raise billions without touching life-saving aid. It’s a simple solution that protects France’s contributions to global development while avoiding further harm to the world’s poorest.
We need to act now. Join us in tweeting Emmanuel Macron and urging him to rethink these catastrophic cuts. France is the fourth-largest donor globally—cutting aid now would send the wrong message. Let’s demand better from our leaders and show that we stand with the world’s most vulnerable. Use your voice, tweet today.