Nearly two years ago, Russia invaded Ukraine, sparking the first major European war in decades. A few months ago, war broke out between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas. These conflicts have raised challenging questions for U.S. policymakers over what our role should be in global affairs concerning foreign wars. 

 Those who argue that the United States should increase foreign aid to countries fighting in foreign wars argue that it is in our geopolitical interest to do so. They may say that the United States needs to be involved in world affairs in order to maintain status as a global superpower. Finally, they may argue that the United States has a moral imperative to assist countries who require assistance when fighting against aggression. 

Those who argue that the United States should not increase foreign aid to countries fighting in foreign wars argue that there is not enough of a compelling interest for the United States to justify sending money to them. They may argue that the U.S. has done enough for many countries in the world, and that the government has an obligation to its citizens to focus its resources on them rather than people in other nations. They may also claim that the United States used to have a tradition of not becoming involved in foreign wars, and that it should work to return to that. 

So, what do you think? Should the United States Increase Foreign Aid to Countries Like Ukraine and Israel? Students can argue Yes, it should; No, it should not; or a nuanced answer in-between! Be sure to submit your answer by February 1 to be considered for this week’s contest. 

 

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:      

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner     
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers      
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors      
• They address counterarguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner      
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly   

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP! 

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag. 

This question will run from 1/18/24 to 2/1/24, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes! 

(For rules/regulations click HERE)