April 21, 2017

Rep. Barbara Lee: Congress must address the famine crisis

The famine in South Sudan and the approaching famines in Somalia, Nigeria and Yemen constitute the worst humanitarian crisis since the end of World War II [“Famine looms in Africa,” editorial, April 16]. Millions could starve if Congress fails to act.

Thankfully, members of both parties agree we must do something. I recently circulated a bipartisan letter urging Congress to provide $1 billion in emergency funding to address these famines. When Congress reconvenes at the end of the month, securing this aid should be a top priority.

This is both a moral imperative and in our national security interests. Congressional inaction could further destabilize the affected regions and exacerbate an already unprecedented global refugee crisis. While aid alone would not solve the problems in these regions, it would save millions of lives and avert catastrophe.

To read this article as it originally appeared, click here.


Source: Washington Post