US will stop funding 'ineffective' UN Middle East relief efforts in favour of faith-based groups, says Mike Pence
Intergovernmental organisations 'often failed to help the most vulnerable communities especially religious minorities', claims Vice President
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The US State Department will reduce funding for "ineffective" United Nations relief efforts in the Middle East and will instead give money to USAID and "faith-based groups", Mike Pence has said.
The Vice President launched a scathing attack on UN agencies at an annual dinner held by a Christian human rights organisation, saying they "often failed to help the most vulnerable communities especially religious minorities".
"We will no longer rely on the United Nations alone to assist persecuted Christians and minorities in the wake of genocide and the atrocities of terrorist groups," Mr Pence told the event, which was organised by the Washington-based non-profit organisation In Defense of Christians.
"The United States will work hand in hand from this day forward with faith-based groups and private [organisations] to help those who are persecuted for their faith. This is the moment, now is the time, and America will support these people in their hour of need," he said.
He did not specify what UN programmes would be cut.
A number of faith-based groups had had their funding requests denied, despite having "proven track records and deep roots in these communities", he said.
He added: "Those days are over. Our fellow Christians and all who are persecuted in the Middle East should not have to rely on multinational institutions when America can help them directly."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments