If the major goal of American defense policy is to provide security for U.S. citizens here and abroad, then funding USAID should be an important part of our defense strategy. USAID’s $40 billion investment delivers “soft power” around the globe, and it accounts for less than 5% of the over $850 billion “hard power” budget provided to the Defense Department. USAID supports investments in health care, education, food and other life-saving services for women, children and their families in approximately 130 countries. USAID’s staff are not “radical lunatics,” as the president states, but are committed and dedicated professionals working to save children’s lives, promote literacy and prevent diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS and blindness. The current interruption in funds has not only stopped funds to save people’s lives but also has interrupted bird flu surveillance in 49 countries at a time when there is growing concern about a new pandemic.

There is also no basis for the president’s statement that “$100 million has been spent on condoms to Hamas.” There are, however, small amounts spent on condoms in some countries to prevent HIV/AIDS. Although a review of all USAID programs for improved efficiency in operations is appropriate, the abrupt closing of an agency and the abandonment of U.S. investments in life-saving services in over half of the countries in the world is foolish, cruel and counter-productive. We need to stop this unconstitutional act and restore the USAID staff and programs.

Deborah Walker

Meredith