,The Impact of FY2008 Funding Options on the MCA: From Saving Face to Saving the Program

The Impact of FY2008 Funding Options on the MCA: From Saving Face to Saving the Program


 

Publication Date: November 2007

Publisher: Center for Global Development; Center for Global Development

Author(s): Sheila Herrling; Sheila Herrling

Research Area: International relations

Type:

Abstract:

Amid a contentious FY2008 budget round between Congress and the White House, foreign assistance -- particularly that for development -- may face cuts during negotiations. The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) -- one of few U.S. foreign aid programs specifically targeted to long-term development objectives -- is especially vulnerable. In a new MCA Monitor Analysis, senior policy analyst Sheila Herrling presents a path forward for Congress and the administration to address the real issues hindering MCA implementation, and argues against an amendment introduced by Senator Lugar to change the MCA's compact funding obligations policy because it erodes key innovations that distinguish the MCA from other aid programs.