House of Representatives Vote Passing the Global Fragility and Violence Reduction Act Signals Bipartisan U.S. Commitment to Preventing Global Violence

Statement from Neal Keny-Guyer, Mercy Corps Chief Executive Officer

WASHINGTON — Mercy Corps applauds yesterday's passage of the Global Fragility and Violence Reduction Act (H.R. 5273) by the U.S. House of Representatives. This important bipartisan legislation invests in international peace by strengthening the U.S. government's efforts to reduce violence and prevent conflict worldwide. It will advance U.S. leadership in securing a safer, more secure and prosperous world.

The House vote reflects Congress’ recognition that diplomatic and foreign assistance tools are critical to conflict prevention. The world is now experiencing a 25-year peak in violence rates, with complex crises devastating communities from Yemen to South Sudan to Afghanistan. An unprecedented 68.5 million are on the run, forcibly displaced from their homes.

The Global Fragility and Violence Reduction Act will align foreign assistance resources to prevent and mitigate crises – potentially avoiding the need to respond once conflict breaks out. The legislation would improve the efficacy of foreign assistance programs in reducing violence in the most fragile countries, thereby protecting Americans at home and abroad. Mercy Corps urges Senate passage of the bipartisan Senate version of the bill (S.3368).