Maybe not.
A debate held by several journalists and experts over the issue of aid in Africa resulted in some intriguing, and perhaps disturbing, conclusion: giving aid to Africa is doing more harm than good. In the face of overwhelming issues, and entrenched corruption at all levels of government and society, it seems that sending money and aid is not bringing any quick, or lasting, change to the war-torn and impoverished continent. In fact, it seems to only add more complexity and insecurity to a very involved situation.
So, where do we go from here?
Gaudium et Spes tells us that it is the responsibility of developed nations to provide for the needs of developing nations, and to some degree, the United States has done so. However, perhaps it is time to redefine aid; assistance to a struggling country cannot simply turn sovereign nations into charity cases, without addressing systemic issues. Dialogue, cooperation, and long-term, professional planning are all key to effectively following through on the successful building of a country. In any event, the broad terms of Gaudium et Spes might need to be narrowed in on in our 21st century world. A greater sense of foreign affairs and a more accurate international economics model requires revisions that more specifically address the needs of certain countries, giving impetus and guidance to more constructive, beneficial intervention in the developing world.
When it comes to helping our brothers and sisters, it will take more than simply money. It will require our combined intellectual and ideological power, in tandem with a true sense of purpose when addressing these matters. We will need to involve the totality of ourselves, and perhaps even the totality of our societies, to lift up struggling countries. In this sense, reconciliation is needed: we must put our relationship and connection to others above our own personal needs in order to secure lasting prosperity in these struggling countries. In Gaudium et Spes the Church was focused on constructing fair economic systems, yet the real emphasis lies more in the sense of involvement that we must take. It is more than rebuilding economies; the focus is placed on working slowly on a nation to develop its resources, taking the time, effort, and energy to solve these issues.
In an age when personal and private opportunities for service have exploded, the Church by extension calls upon the gifts of young men and women to not only become educated about such issues, but also involve themselves totally in the mission to help the poor in other countries. With information technology and various advocacy groups, we are made well aware of the struggles of our neighbors across the globe. Just as nations are supposed to pour out themselves and seek fuller relationships with other countries, so should we as individual citizens of a global society.
Money may not be able to by happiness on any scale. Yet perhaps we can earn happiness for all by recognizing the common humanity we all share, and then acting upon it.
When it comes to helping our brothers and sisters, it will take more than simply money. It will require our combined intellectual and ideological power, in tandem with a true sense of purpose when addressing these matters. We will need to involve the totality of ourselves, and perhaps even the totality of our societies, to lift up struggling countries. In this sense, reconciliation is needed: we must put our relationship and connection to others above our own personal needs in order to secure lasting prosperity in these struggling countries. In Gaudium et Spes the Church was focused on constructing fair economic systems, yet the real emphasis lies more in the sense of involvement that we must take. It is more than rebuilding economies; the focus is placed on working slowly on a nation to develop its resources, taking the time, effort, and energy to solve these issues.
In an age when personal and private opportunities for service have exploded, the Church by extension calls upon the gifts of young men and women to not only become educated about such issues, but also involve themselves totally in the mission to help the poor in other countries. With information technology and various advocacy groups, we are made well aware of the struggles of our neighbors across the globe. Just as nations are supposed to pour out themselves and seek fuller relationships with other countries, so should we as individual citizens of a global society.
Money may not be able to by happiness on any scale. Yet perhaps we can earn happiness for all by recognizing the common humanity we all share, and then acting upon it.
Sources: http://www.npr.org/2007/12/12/17095866/is-aid-to-africa-doing-more-harm-than-good
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