A Way on Closing the Gaps between Countries

In the process of unveiling the backstory of political science as a significant contributor to global progress, we may notice that some countries are well developed and some are not. Children in one country may be playing with their toys, while on the other side of the world, children may be battling for survival. In bridging these inequality gaps we understand the importance of cooperation, equality, social justice and helping others, particularly how foreign aid plays a role in the development of the world. To address this, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) initiated by the United Nations that aim to end poverty, safeguard the environment and ensure people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030 must be followed as a framework of solution.

Foreign aid in political science is important since it allows countries in need to receive support in the form of financial flows, technical assistance and many more. Goal 8 of the SDG also aims to increase trade support for developing and underdeveloped nations. The aim of the aid is to assist with economic growth and infrastructure development in these countries to ensure that no countries are left behind. Developed countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom have contributed in meeting this objective. In today’s example, the COVID-19 pandemic has left many countries affected. We have seen many countries assisting each other by sending supplies such as medical equipment to other countries in order to combat the epidemic. China has provided medical equipment such as face masks and ventilators to countries such as Malaysia. Moreover, Malaysia has received vaccines from a number of countries including the United Kingdom to aid the fight against Covid-19. As a result of foreign aid, the relations between countries are strengthened and on a larger scale, it can improve the livelihood of the people in the country.

In a smaller context, the value of helping each other can be seen through the white flag campaign happening in Malaysia during the pandemic of Covid-19. Whenever a white flag is raised in a house compound, this will signal neighbors or passersby that the residents of the house require assistance. Immediate voluntary assistance or material donation will then be given. This amplifies the importance in the value of helping each other as this may improve the quality of one’s life and promote the spirit of togetherness that extends beyond borders. . By practicing these values, we can ensure that everyone can experience the same quality of life without leaving anyone behind.

Written by:

Farah Nisa binti Sa’adon & Aisyah Farhana binti Mohd Fisal