DHFR

DFID: Department for International Development

The Department for International Development (DFID) was a United Kingdom government department responsible for administering overseas aid. The goal of the department was to promote sustainable development and eliminate world poverty. DFID was established in 1997 and was merged into the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in September 2020.

History

The DFID was created in 1997 by the Labour government under Prime Minister Tony Blair. It was formed from the Overseas Development Administration, which was part of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. The establishment of DFID marked a significant shift in the UK’s approach to international development, emphasizing poverty reduction and sustainable development as primary objectives.

Objectives

DFID's primary objectives were to:

• Promote sustainable development and eliminate poverty.
• Respond to humanitarian emergencies.
• Support economic growth and development in low-income countries.
• Improve health and education outcomes in developing countries.

Key Initiatives

DFID was involved in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at achieving its objectives. Some of the key initiatives included:

• The Global Goals for Sustainable Development: DFID played a crucial role in the development and promotion of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Humanitarian Aid: DFID provided emergency aid in response to natural disasters and conflicts, such as the 2010 Haiti earthquake and the Syrian refugee crisis.
• Health and Education: DFID funded programs to combat diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS and supported educational initiatives to improve literacy and access to education.

Structure

DFID was headed by the Secretary of State for International Development, a Cabinet position. The department had offices in London and East Kilbride, Scotland, and operated in several countries around the world through its overseas offices.

Criticism and Controversy

DFID faced criticism over the years regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of its aid programs. Critics argued that some aid projects did not achieve their intended outcomes or were not aligned with the needs of recipient countries. There were also debates about the proportion of aid spent on administrative costs versus direct aid.

Merger with FCDO

In June 2020, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the merger of DFID with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to form the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). The merger aimed to create a more coherent and unified approach to foreign policy and international development.

Legacy

Despite its dissolution, DFID's legacy continues through the FCDO, which carries forward its mission to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development. DFID's work laid the foundation for many ongoing international development efforts and partnerships.

Also see

• Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
• Overseas Development Administration
• Humanitarian aid