The debate over international aid funding has reignited, with former Catholic Relief Services (CRS) president Carolyn Woo speaking out against recent cuts imposed by the Trump administration.
Woo, who led the organization from 2012 to 2016, is making a strong case for why global aid isn’t just about helping others—it’s about benefiting the United States as well.
International Aid Benefits the United States, Not Just the Recipients
During an appearance on EWTN News In Depth, Woo emphasized that the United States initially launched international aid programs for its own benefit, despite funds being directed overseas.
She pointed out two key reasons why maintaining aid to organizations like CRS is crucial: security and prosperity.
“Security is achieved when countries are working well,” Woo explained.
She argued that stable nations experience fewer conflicts and terrorist threats, which, in turn, enhances global and U.S. security.
Additionally, maintaining aid allows for valuable intelligence gathering and stronger diplomatic relations in regions that could otherwise become volatile.
Economic Growth in Developing Nations Can Boost the U.S. Market
Beyond security concerns, Woo stressed the economic importance of international aid.
She highlighted how most of the world’s population and economic growth are happening in developing countries.
These regions are poised to become crucial markets for U.S. exports, essential minerals, and agricultural products.
“When we invest in these other countries, we’re actually investing in the base that allows all of us to grow,” Woo said.
She argued that pulling funding from international aid programs could hurt America’s long-term economic opportunities.
A Direct Message to Trump, Musk, and Rubio
Woo directly addressed President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and business leader Elon Musk, urging them to reconsider the funding cuts.
She framed aid as a strategic investment, not just an act of goodwill.
“It’s the best investment you could make in the United States in terms of security, in terms of prosperity, but most importantly, in terms of trust,” Woo stated.
She warned that trust—both domestically and internationally—is a critical asset that the U.S. is at risk of losing.
U.S. Bishops Urge Support for CRS Amid Funding Crisis
Woo’s remarks come at a time when the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is making an urgent plea for Catholics to support CRS.
In a statement earlier this week, the bishops underscored the importance of CRS in aiding those suffering from war, natural disasters, violent persecution, and extreme poverty.
As the debate over international aid continues, Woo and other advocates argue that cutting these programs could have lasting consequences—not just for the people receiving the aid, but for the United States itself.