The annual appropriations update for the Center for Global Development provides an overview of the current state of play in Congress on the State and Foreign Operations Bill. Currently, the Senate and House versions are $2 billion apart. They diverge on bilateral assistance but are on the same wavelength on the need for aid effectiveness. There is strong support for impact evaluations and increased funding ($50 million) for Development Innovation Ventures.
- There is less support in both chambers for International Financial Institutions, despite requests for additional funding from the Biden administration.
- Congress continues its support for global health, but it may hit a ceiling in U.S. contributions to the Global Fund capped at $1 for every $2 contributed by other donors.
- The House and Senate agree on support for the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to enhance its impact, although the House version has not yet aligned with the Administration’s request and the Senate’s budget figure.
- Congress has been relying on emergency supplements rather than fully funding the Administration’s growing requests for humanitarian assistance in recent years. Note that State’s Migration and Refugee Assistance budget as well as the international food assistance program face House pressures.
Keep in mind that Congress’ priority when they return in September will be a short-term spending bill by October 1st to keep the Government open.