The Future of UK Development Policy

The UK was once seen as a leader in international development, but amid a series of crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and spikes in energy and food prices triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it has stepped back in recent years, with major aid cuts, a reduced focus on the poorest countries, and over a quarter of its aid budget being now spent in the UK. Where should the UK development policy go from here? 

CGD has elevated leading voices across the political spectrum in a series of conversations, including with the current Minister of State for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell and former Shadow Secretary of State for International Development Preet Gill, to set out their vision for the UK’s role on a global stage. 

CGD colleagues are also presenting proposals and recommendations for what the UK’s future role in international development should be. Explore our work—from innovative policy proposals, to recent events, as well as more in depth research, below: 

More from the Series

Feb

21

2024

VIRTUAL
6:00—7:30 AM EDT | 11.00am – 12:30pm GMT

The UK Role in Global Health: Present Challenges and Future Directions

January 23, 2024
2024 marks a crucially important year for the world’s health, shaped by an economic and social polycrisis and recovery from COVID-19. Collective efforts, development assistance, and global solidarity are more important than ever. The UK once enjoyed a strong reputation in global health, but this has...
POLICY PAPER

What Could the UK’s Future Development Structure Look Like?

January 25, 2024
Reform of the UK development structure is necessary to restore the effectiveness of the UK’s development function. How reforms are implemented will determine their success.
Blog Post

What Is the UK’s International Development White Paper For?

December 07, 2023
A couple of weeks ago, the UK’s Minister for International Development, Andrew Mitchell, presented the first new White Paper on International Development for almost fifteen years to Parliament. Its release has prompted much comment. My own opinion leans towards measured praise. But so far, none of t...
CGD NOTE

How the UK Can Make the Best Use of the Multilateral Development Finance System

December 06, 2023
This note argues that the United Kingdom (UK), working within old and new coalitions, should take a more strategic approach to the aims and funding of a leading cluster of major multilateral funding institutions. It sets out the UK’s role within multilaterals, the key reform issues and how to treat ...