Combating Global Poverty: Investing in the Governance and Growth Nexus

Although funding for governance and economic growth is a part of U.S. foreign aid, it remains a relatively low priority in spite of rhetorical pronouncements to the contrary. There is significant reason, however, to reverse this trend and return to a focus on governance to ensure broad-based economic growth across the developing world. In particular, the rise of emerging economies that can increasingly contribute to their own development means the United States could reduce its focus on basic human needs and toward the growth and governance nexus. This will require a shift in how the United States programs its people, time, and money in delivering foreign assistance.