Introduction

This post is part of a series on common myths and misconceptions about charity. Taking time to learn the facts will help prevent the spread of misinformation and inspire more people to use their resources effectively to improve the world.

Does corruption in recipient governments interfere with foreign aid?

A common criticism of giving aid to low-income countries is that the money gets siphoned off by corrupt local officials before it can do any good.

Corruption can interfere with aid. However, by donating through reliable and effective charities, it is possible to make a big difference through charitable giving, even in areas where corruption is widespread.

No one can deny that corruption has sometimes prevented aid money from achieving its intended goal. But the solution is not giving less, but giving "smarter."

One way to reduce the danger of corruption is to donate to programs which do not deal in valuable goods which officials could divert. Another is to give to charities that reliably monitor the impact of their programs, ensuring that their work is actually improving lives, rather than lining a few pockets. For example, the Against Malaria Foundation (AMF) is particularly careful to avoid and discourage corruption while carrying out its distributions. You can learn more about AMF and similarly reliable charities through charity evaluators like GiveWell.

Even many governmental aid programs, which have historically attracted significant criticism for corruption and fraud, now have measures in place to ensure that aid money goes where it is most needed. Done right, foreign aid can actually be used to encourage local institutions to become less corrupt and serve their communities more effectively. Instead of pressuring governments to cut foreign aid spending, we should pressure them to be more transparent about their activities and impact, so that funds are directed to the most effective programs.

By giving to effective charities, we can make a positive impact in low- and middle-income countries. Take the Giving Pledge today and join a worldwide community dedicated to solving the key challenges of our time.

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