The UK's modern development
approach, July 2026
Details
This policy paper sets out how the UK is modernising its approach
to international development.
The world has changed dramatically in the last 3 decades. Crises
in one part of our increasingly interconnected world affect us
all. The UK public, and our partners around the world, need a new
approach to international development.
International development remains a central part of UK foreign
policy. It reflects both our values and our national interest.
Significant progress has been made on international development
this century. But the world has changed, and so must we:
- one in 10 of the world's population are living in extreme
poverty, unable to access basic health, education, water and
sanitation, and facing devastating climate impacts
- too many countries are stuck in a vicious cycle of debt,
paying more in interest payments than on health and education
- data suggests the world has passed peak aid'. Power is
shifting in the global development system as the roles of
traditional and emerging partners change, and private and
philanthropic partners step up
- nearly half the world's extreme poor live in fragile and
conflict affected states. Wars that rage unresolved do not just
cause untold harm to civilians;
they radiate instability, undermine the security of
neighbouring states, and lead migrants to embark on dangerous
journeys
A clear, effective and modern development policy is urgent: to
reconnect with our international partners, to drive reform of the
multilateral system and to promote local leadership.
