The Dutch pro-business VVD parliamentary party wants to cut three billion euros in development aid, bringing it down to 1.4 billion euros per year.

The proposal was launched by parliamentary party leader Stef Blok and MP Ingrid de Caluwé in Dutch daily de Volkskrant.

In their article, the two conservative politicians argue that the development aid provided over the past few decades has failed. They also say there is no need for the state to absolve people “of their moral obligations towards others.” “Nothing should stop people from making a financial contribution to sound development projects,” they say.  

(cl/ae)

© Radio Netherlands Worldwide