Oxfam America

Aid Reform

US foreign aid has saved millions of lives and helped millions more overcome poverty. Yet foreign aid is still under-performing and often fails to reach the people who need it most. Oxfam America is seeking reform of US foreign aid to make it more efficient, more modern, and more focused on ending global poverty.

What Oxfam is Doing

Oxfam America is working to increase the effectiveness of US foreign aid by placing the voices and priorities of poor people at the center of aid policy and practice. Through analytical and field research, we will bring out the hopes and concerns of intended beneficiaries, implementing partners, aid professionals, other donors, and host governments. Through political advocacy, we will ensure that these voices are heard by policy makers who have the power to make US foreign aid more effective in the fight against global poverty. more »

What You Can Do

Video

Oxfam America president Raymond C. Offenheiser discusses how 21st century sustainable security requires working together across borders for joint solutions to global challenges.


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Smart Development in Practice

The Humanitarian Response Index: Where we stand
The Humanitarian Response Index: Where we stand
Just how effective is US humanitarian aid?
Measuring the right results: The real strength of the Millennium Challenge Corporation
Measuring the right results: The real strength of the Millennium Challenge Corporation
Senate appropriators are recommending severe cuts in funding for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). Yet since 2004, the MCC has a clear record of delivering tangible results by rewarding countries that make reforms to fight poverty and promote economic growth.
From Mozambique, lessons on how PEPFAR can be integrated into a country’s own health system
From Mozambique, lessons on how PEPFAR can be integrated into a country’s own health system
PEPFAR’s evolving role in Mozambique is a model for countries that have only just begun to hold donors accountable to their national health priorities.
Dispatch from the Field: Diogo Milagre, Mozambique
Dispatch from the Field: Diogo Milagre, Mozambique
"The donors tell us they want to listen. Is this true or is it just rhetoric?"
Aid transparency: When developing countries lead, will the US follow?
Aid transparency: When developing countries lead, will the US follow?
A new Web site in Mozambique is attempting to address the problem of donor transparency.
In El Salvador, USAID program grows a new generation of rural entrepreneurs
In El Salvador, USAID program grows a new generation of rural entrepreneurs
By building on local knowledge—and adapting to local conditions—USAID and Fintrac help farming communities overcome poverty.
Building on Strength in Afghanistan
Building on Strength in Afghanistan
Far from hopeless, the Afghan people are determined to build a peaceful future—and US foreign aid can help.
Q&A on Aid in Afghanistan
Q&A on Aid in Afghanistan
Oxfam’s policy advisor, Matt Waldman, talks about how we can make aid more effective in Afghanistan.
Listening and Learning to Improve Aid
Listening and Learning to Improve Aid
As part of the Listening Project, Oxfam America talks to community members about their experiences with international aid—and gains some valuable insights.
From Poverty to Power

From Poverty to Power »

For the US to become a global leader in smart development, it should focus on strengthening responsible and effective states and helping active citizens to foster equitable economic growth through their own efforts.