There is an argument that developed countries should have more responsibility for helping poorer nations. I partially disagree with that view, as even though richer nations can provide assistance to support poorer countries, I believe that poor countries should take greater responsibility for their own development in order to become self-reliant nations.
One of the reasons is reducing dependence. Minimizing foreign support is indispensable for reducing external influence. When poorer nations rely heavily on foreign aid, they may become more vulnerable to external pressure. For instance, a low-income country borrows money from a wealthier nation to stabilize its economy. However, financial assistance often comes with specific requirements. As a result, the developed country may influence government institutions, public officials, or even public policies, potentially undermining the sovereignty of the low-income country.
Another reason is that each donor country has its own problems. Similar to low-income countries, wealthy nations also face difficulties, such as unemployment, crime, low purchasing power, and natural disasters. Such conditions force them to prioritize their fiscal budgets to address their domestic challenges. For instance, during an economic recession, a foreign aid program from a wealthy country may be reduced, delayed, or even stopped, as the wealthy country must redirect its funds to address its internal problems. As a result, the low-income nation, which relies heavily on that aid, may face difficulties.
In conclusion, although high-income countries may have a moral responsibility to support poorer countries, such as financial aid and technology transfer, I believe that low-income nations should become the key drivers of their own progress because dependence on foreign support can place them in a vulnerable position.