This guest blog post is written by Lucy Owens, a Results campaigner with our Scotland group.

This November, Results UK is calling on the UK government to renew its support for the International Development Association (IDA) by urging the Minister for Development Anneliese Dodds to make a substantial financial commitment. We also seek the Minister’s advocacy for a strong World Bank focus on poverty reduction, which lies at the heart of the IDA’s mission.

Historically, the UK has been a crucial donor to the IDA, consistently contributing to efforts to reduce global poverty. However, in 2021, the UK reduced its IDA funding by a striking 54%, dropping from its position as the largest bilateral donor. This December, the UK has a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm its leadership on the global stage by investing additional resources in the World Bank’s “IDA21” replenishment. Doing so would help drive meaningful change in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.

It’s important to see the tangible impact that UK contributions to the IDA have already made. Here are some powerful examples of IDA-funded projects that have transformed lives, underscoring the value of sustained UK support.

1. Improving access to education in Ethiopia

The IDA has played a critical role in expanding access to education in Ethiopia through the ‘General Education Quality Improvement Program’. This program has significantly improved both the quality of education and the reach of the general education system, with enrolment rising from 7.1 million students in 2000 to 26 million in 2020. The program’s focus on training teachers, providing essential resources, and constructing schools has been transformative, helping break the poverty cycle by equipping the next generation with the skills they need for a brighter future.

2. Expanding access to clean water and sanitation in Bangladesh

Through initiatives like the ‘Bangladesh Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project,‘ IDA funding has dramatically improved access to clean water and sanitation in Bangladesh. This project has provided over 1.7 million people with access to safer water sources, significantly reducing the prevalence of waterborne illnesses and the associated healthcare costs. Improved sanitation and hygiene facilities are essential for public health and provide a foundation for sustainable community development.

3. Reducing maternal and child mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa

The IDA has also been instrumental in reducing maternal and child mortality across Sub-Saharan Africa. Through funding health programs focused on immunisation, maternal care and nutrition, the IDA has helped save countless lives. For instance, in Senegal, IDA-supported interventions helped reduce the under-5 child mortality rate by nearly 50% between 2000 and 2015. These programs address the root causes of poverty tied to health inequities, creating healthier, more resilient communities.

These examples illustrate how IDA funding directly contributes to poverty alleviation and demonstrates why it remains a worthwhile investment for the UK government. Without sustained UK contributions, impactful projects like these may struggle to continue. By investing in the IDA21 replenishment, the UK can help drive progress in education, health and infrastructure, securing a better future for millions.