Supporting Democracies during Covid-19 2020-07-15
2020-07-15
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Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The UK is supporting Hong Kong and implementing Magnitsky-style sanctions. The health and economic responses include support for governance, transparency and freedom of speech.
Richard Graham asks about steps taken by the Department to support democracies during the pandemic, highlighting challenges and opportunities in 2021 when the UK chairs major international organisations like G7, Commonwealth, and COP26. He seeks more work from the Westminster Foundation for Democracy under DFID.
DFID and FCO are strong supporters of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy's work. Nigel Adams thanks Richard Graham for his commitment as chair of WFD. In 2019-20, £3.3 million from FCO and £3.9 million from DFID was allocated. Constraints on ODA due to covid-19 are expected over the next few months. The integrated review will examine options for enhancing democracy support. The merger presents an opportunity to strengthen UK's support for democracy.
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Response accuracy