Does America Fumble International Development?

An infographic from the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition compares U.S. development and aid spending to the annual Super Bowl splurge on ads, food, and security.

1 minute read

February 3, 2013, 1:00 PM PST

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj


Olga Khazan posts the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition's infographic, which is meant to "build awareness among Americans about the important role global development plays in our security, economy, and values,” said Richard Parker, USGLC's communications director. "Granted," writes Khazan, "it’s up for dispute whether more spending on development and diplomacy would be a 'touchdown for America.' And we can’t exactly ship 100 million pounds of chicken wings to Africa. Still, it’s an interesting look at how our international programs compare to one of our national pastimes."

Among the compelling statistics:

  • For the cost of one 30-second super bowl ad, 800,000 mosquito bed nets could be purchased.
  • The estimated 8,000 volunteers for the Super Bowl is roughly the same as the number of Peace Corps volunteers and trainees globally.
  • Security costs to the NFL for the game could secure seven American diplomatic missions.

Saturday, February 2, 2013 in The Washington Post

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