Aid Cuts Threatened by US Over War Crimes Tribunal

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UNITED NATIONS -- The US government is quietly threatening to withhold hundreds of millions of dollars of foreign aid aimed at combating terrorism, resolving conflicts, and building democracy unless countries agree to shield Americans from prosecution at the UN permanent war crimes tribunal.

Since 2002, the US government has withheld military aid from countries that refused to sign such a bilateral agreement. But the new amendment in this year's budget bill goes a step further, revoking other nonmilitary assistance to governments. The amendment targets an economic support fund designed to foster democracy and human rights around the world, as well as promote the rule of law in Muslim countries to bolster counterterrorism efforts.

Jordan would be hit hardest. It stands to lose $250 million in a two-year old program to foster pluralism and secular education, potentially undermining the Bush administration's declared goal of spreading democracy in the Mideast.

Cyprus, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Venezuela, and South Africa also could lose millions if the bill passes as expected Wednesday and is signed by President Bush. The bill also threatens to cut $11 million in aid to eight African democracies meant to break up terrorist funding networks, improve airport security, and upgrade judiciaries. The fate of $22 million in aid meant to heal divisions in Northern Ireland is also unclear.

Boston Globe