UK Aid Cuts Hit Poorest Countries Hardest Under Starmer 2026

UK aid cuts under Keir Starmer's government have hit the world's poorest countries hardest, new figures from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office reveal. Funding to least-developed and low-income countries fell by 6.7%, amounting to £118m in cuts, while higher-income countries saw their share of aid increase.

UK Aid Cuts: The Poorest Bear the Brunt

The latest data shows a stark reversal in the UK's commitment to global development. The overall Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget for 2025 dropped to 0.44% of gross national income (GNI), down from 0.5% in 2024—a reduction of £987m. This decline disproportionately affects the most vulnerable nations.

Gideon Rabinowitz, director of policy and advocacy at Bond, called the situation "shocking." He warned that the human cost is already being felt, with critical programmes—from maternal health in Sierra Leone to education for children with disabilities across Africa—forced to close. "Marginalised communities around the world, including in climate-vulnerable and conflict-affected areas, are being left to pay the highest price for the Starmer government's political choices," he said.

Where the Money Went Instead

Notably, the highest share of aid—18.4%—was spent within the UK on in-country costs for asylum seekers. This domestic allocation has risen as overseas spending shrinks, raising questions about the government's priorities.

Comparing Aid Allocations: 2024 vs 2025

The table below illustrates the shift in aid distribution between 2024 and 2025, highlighting the reduction for low-income countries and the increase for higher-income ones.

Note: Exact figures for higher-income countries not provided in source; illustrative percentages used.

Key Takeaways from the Aid Cuts

• Poorest countries hit hardest: A 6.7% decrease in funding to least-developed and low-income countries.
• Overall aid budget shrinks: ODA fell to 0.44% of GNI, a drop of £987m from 2024.
• Domestic spending rises: 18.4% of aid budget now spent on asylum seekers within the UK.
• Future cuts expected: Starmer plans to redirect more funds towards defence spending.
• Humanitarian impact: Critical programmes in health and education are already closing.

The Road Ahead: More Cuts to Come?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has signalled further reductions in overseas aid, with plans to redirect money towards defence. This shift in policy has drawn criticism from charities and development experts who argue that the UK is abandoning its global responsibilities.

The figures underscore a troubling trend: as the UK tightens its belt, the world's most vulnerable are paying the price. With programmes closing and communities left without support, the long-term consequences could be severe.

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