A Blueprint for America to Win in the World10 Practical Ideas to Ensure U.S. International Assistance Delivers for the American People ^^ As global threats intensify and geopolitical rivals grow more aggressive, this Blueprint outlines ten actionable ideas to ensure U.S. international assistance protects American interests, strengthens our security, and promotes prosperity at home and abroad. From economic diplomacy to humanitarian leadership, it’s time for a strategy that maximizes our values and delivers results for the American people.U.S. Global Leadership CoalitionUSGLC_6b6a1dec-fd6c-11e6-a68b-f5da7ee62fe8Our values are maximized and results are delivered for the American people._af2b1cd4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea00To outline actionable ideas to ensure U.S. international assistance protects American interests, strengthens our security, and promotes prosperity at home and abroad_af2b1efa-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea00SecuritySelf-RelianceAccountabilityTransparencyCoordinationCooperationResilienceEfficiencyReligious FreedomWomen's Economic EmpowermentDemocracyFreedomProsperityPrivate Sector & American BusinessesUnleash the private sector and support American businesses_af2b218e-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea001The Private SectorAmerican BusinessesUnleash the Private Sector: Support American Businesses ^^ One of America's greatest strengths is the talent, agility, and innovation of our nation's business community. It's time to ensure the private sector has a meaningful seat at the table, alongside government, to drive economic growth globally that benefits America and helps us compete with China and other rivals. This means more effectively leveraging U.S. tax dollars, tapping into U.S. capital markets and engaging the private sector to scale their boldest, most transformative ideas.Government-Led ProgramsStrengthen U.S. government-led programs that de-risk private investment and create markets, promote the rule of law, combat corruption, reduce poverty, and pursue conflict resolution._af2b21d4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea001.1These efforts stabilize tumultuous regions and prevent rivals from gaining footholds, while building confidence among private investors that their capital is secure and impactful.Public-Private Co-CreationBring to scale public-private sector co-creation_af2b2292-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea001.2Bring to scale public-private sector co-creation, which was effective during President Trump’s first Administration. To achieve this, agencies leading international assistance need a single connection point with effective and capable U.S. personnel with private sector experience to drive enhanced collaboration.Diplomatic PostsEnsure U.S. diplomatic posts have the expert capacity to integrate economic statecraft and commercial diplomacy with U.S. international assistance to support U.S. business and economic interests abroad._af2b22d8-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea001.3U.S. Diplomatic PostsFinancingExpand America's development financing tools, debt swaps, and smartly leverage World Bank Group financing._af2b230a-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea001.4World BankInternational Development Association (IDA) As an example of a strong return on U.S. investment: by leveraging the capital markets as well as contributions from other sovereign donors and philanthropies, U.S. contributions to World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) generates $4 for every $1.Burden Sharing & Self-RelianceEnsure burden sharing and pathways to self-reliance_af2b2346-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea002Burden sharing with our allied donors ensures every U.S. dollar is maximized and delivers the greatest return for American taxpayers -- all while reinforcing America's leadership on the global stage. ^^ Winning Ideas:Donor CommitmentsUrge donor countries -- from Europe to the Gulf to regional players that have graduated from aid -- to increase their commitments alongside U.S. investments in overseas development assistance, global health, and humanitarian response._af2b238c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea002.1ReplenishmentsUse upcoming multilateral replenishments as high leverage moments to invest in these impactful programs, while pressing for greater burden sharing from fellow donors. _af2b23c8-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea002.2Development BanksLeverage the multilateral development banks, pressing other countries to also step up their contributions, while preserving U.S. influence in these critical platforms._af2b24d6-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea002.3Development BanksStrategic AlignmentAlign U.S. international assistance with strategic interests_af2b251c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003As reported by the U.S. intelligence community, Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea are increasingly and collectively challenging U.S. interests at home and abroad. At this pivotal moment, it is critical U.S. international assistance is aligned with U.S. foreign policy priorities to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous. ^^ Winning Ideas:Critical PrioritiesFocus U.S. international assistance on critical strategic priorities, including competing with rivals, securing access to critical minerals, fortifying supply chains, including global health, promoting energy solutions, and saving lives._af2b2562-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003.1SecurityLeverage U.S. international assistance to bolster security cooperation and partnerships with key countries, including connections to security assistance, narcotics control, and law enforcement._af2b25a8-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003.2U.S. PrioritiesBolster longstanding U.S. priorities -- including international religious freedom, women's economic empowerment, and democratic values and freedom -- alongside emerging strategic interests._af2b25ee-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003.3Agency AlignmentAlign the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, Millennium Challenge Corporation, U.S. Trade and Development Agency, Export-Import Bank of the U.S., and other investment tools to fully leverage each agency's unique assets and deliver even greater impact for U.S. national interests._af2b263e-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003.4U.S. International Development Finance CorporationMillennium Challenge CorporationU.S. Trade and Development AgencyExport-Import BankBarriers & RulesRemove technical barriers and adjust budget rules to treat equity investment as assets to ensure our investments are strategically impactful._af2b2684-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea003.5Restrictive eligibility rules and outdated statutory constraints prevent our most impactful agencies from operating in strategic countries and at full scale.CompactsExpand usage of negotiated compacts_af2b26d4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea004Expand Winning Model of Negotiated Compacts ^^ Pioneered by a Republican President and bipartisan leaders in Congress, the Millennium Challenge Corporation's negotiated compact model has demonstrated that tying U.S. international assistance to measurable and tangible results is a win for America and partner countries. A compact model empowers our diplomats to ensure every dollar spent delivers tangible outcomes for American interests. ^^ Winning Ideas:StakeholdershipRequire country partners to have "skin-in-the-game" to invest in their own citizens alongside the U.S. through their own resources and/or domestic resource mobilization to drive self-reliance._af2b2724-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea004.1U.S. PrioritiesIncorporate U.S. priorities in country compact negotiations such as anti-corruption, legal and regulatory reforms, and pro-business policies, while tailoring solutions to each country's needs._af2b2774-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea004.2Benchmarks, Metrics & ExitsInclude specific outcome benchmarks, clear accountability metrics, and "sunset" exit strategy planning with an agreed upon compact end date when using the compact model approach._af2b27ce-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea004.3Funding FlexibilityIncorporate greater funding flexibility to respond to emerging threats or opportunities including humanitarian crises or shifting geopolitical conditions._af2b281e-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea004.4Health & BiosecurityReduce redundancy, bolster capacity in global health and biosecurity preparedness_af2b286e-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea005The world has learned the hard way that the deadliest infectious diseases -- such as Ebola -- are only a plane ride away. Global health programs save lives and keep Americans and the world safer. Now is the time to streamline programming, remove bureaucratic and funding stovepipes, and drive smart investments in what’s working to keep us safe. ^^ Winning Ideas:SuccessesBuild on successes by supporting investments that save lives abroad and protect Americans' own health -- including PEPFAR, The Global Fund, Gavi, PMI, and bilateral Global Health Security and infectious disease programs._af2b28fa-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea005.1PEPFARThe Global FundGaviPMIPreparedness, Monitoring & ResponseInvest in strengthening health system preparedness, disease monitoring, and outbreak response to detect, prevent, and help stop biothreats at their source before they reach our shores._af2b2954-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea005.2Coordination & CooperationPress for increased coordination through country-led health sector planning to leverage U.S. investments, promote burden sharing, and enhance cooperation across these financing mechanisms._af2b29ae-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea005.3Humanitarian AssistancePrioritize life-saving humanitarian assistance_af2b2a1c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006At a time of rising global threats, it is critical for America to remain a leading first responder to humanitarian crises around the globe. When the U.S. leads with speed, strength, and generosity, we save lives, advance our national interests, and project the best of American values to the world. Our leadership brings unmatched goodwill and strengthens America's position on the global stage. ^^ Prioritizing humanitarian effectiveness is not just a moral imperative -- it is essential to U.S. national security. Swift, strategic action prevents today’s crises from spiraling into tomorrow’s instability. When America fails to act, adversaries like China and Russia step into the vacuum to expand their influence at our expense, as seen in Burma and beyond. In addition, at a time when food security is national security, the vital work of American farmers helps feed those on the brink of starvation and stabilizes communities, while delivering a return for Americans. ^^ Winning Ideas:Effectiveness & ImpactIncrease the effectiveness and impact of lifesaving efforts by decreasing redundancies and focusing investments on highly cost-effective programs._af2b2a76-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006.1Lifesaving OperationsPrioritize lifesaving humanitarian operations such as food assistance (including food grown by American farmers), clean water and sanitation, shelter, and health responses._af2b2ad0-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006.2CapacityEnsure U.S. humanitarian operations have the capacity to respond to multiple rapid onset disasters simultaneously with expeditionary teams -- supported by highly capable technical staff -- and unhindered by internal bureaucracy._af2b2b3e-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006.3PreventionInclude early, proactive, and preventive efforts in life-saving interventions to reduce long-term costs to the American taxpayer._af2b2ba2-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006.4Resilience must be built into programming so that communities hit by multiple natural and man-made disasters do not require multi-year operations.EfficiencyPush for smart reforms to streamline and improve the efficiency of the global humanitarian system._af2b2c06-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea006.5Instability & ThreatsLeverage international development programs to address major threats to U.S. national security emanating from beyond our borders_af2b2c74-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea007No More Wars: Target Drivers of Instability ^^ As Congress and the Administration advance the Global Fragility Act, U.S. international development programs can be further leveraged to address major threats to U.S. national security emanating from beyond our borders -- including migration, civil unrest, drug trafficking including fentanyl, famine, and lack of economic opportunity. Getting this right can help avoid costly wars and save significant U.S. taxpayer dollars. Studies have found that every $1 invested in conflict prevention can save $16 in response costs. These fundamental investments are the best and most effective way to ensure stronger and more stable communities -- and bolster U.S. security in the long-run. ^^ Winning Ideas:Self-ReliancePrioritize development programs that not only improve the economic outlook in a country but also lay out a path to graduation_af2b2ce2-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea007.1Return to the first Trump Administration’s "Journey to Self-Reliance" that required partner country buy-in by prioritizing development programs that not only improve the economic outlook in a country but also lay out a path to graduation.Instability & SafetyPrioritize international development programs that address the causes of instability and make Americans safer_af2b2d46-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea007.2Low-Income CountriesMiddle-Income CountriesPrioritize international development programs that address the causes of instability and make Americans safer, including in fragile and conflict-affected countries. For example, low- and middle-income countries with low levels of food insecurity are three times less likely to be crisis zones with violent conflict.PeacekeepingLeverage U.S. support for UN peacekeeping to avoid costly wars, promote stability in fragile environments, and help keep U.S. servicemembers out of harm's way._af2b2dbe-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea007.3United NationsCapacityStrengthen capacity at the local level_af2b2e2c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea007.4Local OrganizationsStrengthen capacity at the local level by implementing U.S. assistance, when possible, through local organizations in partner countries that can be properly vetted and deliver successfully.Priorities & PartnershipsFocus on strategic regional priorities and partnerships_af2b2e9a-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea008At a time when U.S. resources are increasingly stretched, prioritizing investments through data and evidence can drive meaningful change, strengthen alliances, and counter rivals in critical regions. America needs a coordinated effort in emerging economies and developing countries focused on economic security and prosperity, integrating international assistance, trade, and strategic communications. Critical support in fragile and conflict-affected countries to ensure that young people are not drawn into violence and terrorist-related entities should be prioritized. Special efforts should be implemented in strategic regions where rivals are playing to win and the U.S. cannot afford to cede ground, including Ukraine, Africa, the Indo-Pacific, and our own hemisphere. ^^ Winning Ideas:Western HemisphereReduce migration, strengthen the rule of law, counter drug trafficking, and bolster supply chains_af2b2f1c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea008.1Western HemisphereIn the Western Hemisphere, reducing migration, strengthening the rule of law, countering drug trafficking including fentanyl, and bolstering supply chains will be critical.AfricaStrengthen our programs in Africa_af2b2f94-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea008.2AfricaProsper Africa ProgramPower Africa ProgramIn Africa, as the youth bulge explodes, it is critical to sharpen America's economic focus to counter China, bolster U.S. exports, confront terrorist threats, defend against disease, and secure access to critical minerals essential to U.S. supply chains and national security. Strengthening programs including Prosper Africa, Power Africa, the Lobito Corridor effort, and AGOA (the African Growth and Opportunity Act) will be key.Indo-Pacific RegionCounter China's expansionism, bolster Taiwan's democracy and defense, diversifying supply chains, and protect key security interests_af2b300c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea008.3Indo-Pacific RegionTaiwanChinaIn the Indo-Pacific, countering China’s expansionism, bolstering Taiwan’s democracy and defense, diversifying supply chains, and protecting key security interests will be essential.Accountability & TransparencyDrive accountability and transparency_af2b30d4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea009Up Our Tech Game, Drive Accountability and Transparency ~ As Congress and the Administration work together on the future of U.S. international assistance, strengthening transparency and accountability to ensure continued U.S. leadership and investment abroad is necessary to demonstrate economic and security benefits at home. Harnessing new technology tools will improve our ability to predict crises and respond appropriately. ^^ Winning Ideas:Goals & OutcomesPursue clear goals and rigorous progress tracking with evidence-driven data to ensure cost-effective, strategic outcomes_af2b314c-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea009.1Pursue clear goals and rigorous progress tracking with evidence-driven data to ensure cost-effective, strategic outcomes for the American people. Expanding public accountability mechanisms will highlight successes, expose inefficiencies, and ensure continuous improvement.AI & TechnologyLeverage AI and technology to anticipate and respond quickly to the most intractable global threats_af2b31c4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea009.2Leverage AI and technology to anticipate and respond quickly to the most intractable global threats – including hunger and disaster prediction – and to support program design, including market data and mapping.ProcurementSimplify procurement processes and systems to secure necessary technical expertise, oversight, and in-country capacity_af2b3296-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea009.3Pursue simplified procurement processes and systems to secure necessary technical expertise, oversight, and in-country capacity for successful U.S. programs.CreditClaim credit for our international assistance investments_af2b3322-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea0010One Brand -- "From the American People" ~ For too long, the image and impact of U.S. international assistance projects have been diluted by far too many accompanying logos. In this era of great power competition -- when our rivals do not shy away from taking credit -- the United States can no longer afford to downplay the quality and impact of its investments. No country does more for the world or does it better than America. ^^ Winning Ideas:Identity & LogoBrand U.S. international assistance with one identity and one logo_af2b33a4-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea0010.1Brand U.S. international assistance with one identity and one logo -- the American flag. And we should keep the old tagline from USAID: "From the American People." Where necessary, partner agency logos can be listed on brochures.WaiversContinue the waiver practice for branding exceptions for security reasons_af2b3462-3c0b-11f0-8bd8-dba62283ea0010.2Continue the waiver practice for branding exceptions for security reasons -- in line with past practice -- but, whenever possible, America should get credit.2025-05-28https://www.usglc.org/blueprint2025/OwenAmburOwen.Ambur@verizon.net