UK International Development" refers to the United Kingdom’s efforts to support sustainable development and reduce poverty in low- and middle-income countries. These efforts are carried out through financial aid, technical assistance, partnerships, and multilateral contributions. Here are key details:
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO): Created in 2020 by merging the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO). It leads UK international development work.
UK International Development focuses on:
Poverty reduction
Economic development and job creation
Humanitarian response (disaster relief, conflict zones)
Health and education access
Gender equality and inclusion
Climate change mitigation and adaptation
Democracy, governance, and conflict prevention
The UK committed to spending 0.7% of Gross National Income (GNI) on official development assistance (ODA) until 2021.
Since 2021, it has temporarily reduced this to 0.5% of GNI, citing economic pressures from COVID-19.
Most aid is targeted at sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and conflict-affected areas.
Bilateral aid: Given directly to partner countries or programs.
Multilateral aid: Provided through organizations like the UN, World Bank, and GAVI.
NGOs and Civil Society: Funding UK and local charities that implement development projects.
Private sector partnerships: Supporting business-led development and innovation.
Ukraine crisis and humanitarian support
COVID-19 vaccine distribution (COVAX)
Climate finance and COP26 commitments
Girls’ education and women’s rights
Clean energy and infrastructure in Africa and Asia
The Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) assesses the effectiveness of UK aid.
The UK is known for promoting transparency and value for money in its aid programs.
London Headquarters
Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
King Charles Street
London SW1A 2AH
United Kingdom
East Kilbride Office
Abercrombie House
Eaglesham Road
East Kilbride G75 8EA
United Kingdom
General Enquiries: +44 20 7008 5000
Media Enquiries: +44 20 7008 3100
Legalisation and Apostille Services: +44 3700 00 22 44 (Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm UK time)
General Correspondence: fcdo.correspondence@fcdo.gov.uk
Media Enquiries: newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk
Legalisation Services: legalisation@fcdo.gov.uk
Freedom of Information Requests: information.rights@fcdo.gov.uk
Internal Audit & Investigations (for reporting fraud or safeguarding concerns):
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