BEC is grateful to the 111 House Representatives who showcased their support for international basic education by signing on to the FY26 dear colleague letter, led by Reps. Quigley and Fitzpatrick.
These champions understand that access to quality education reduces poverty, supports future trade partners, improves the global economy, bolsters peace and security, and strengthens public health.
They also highlight that international basic education directly aligns with the Administration’s priorities, as outlined below.
Safer: Research shows that increasing access to education reduces political violence and conflict. Doubling the percentage of youth with secondary education can cut the risk of conflict in half, and secondary education can reduce the likelihood of young people supporting political violence by 48%.
Stronger: Support for education programs strengthens U.S. reputation abroad, particularly in areas with large populations of children and youth. Africa has the youngest and fastest-growing population in the world. American engagement on the continent is critical to ensure that future generations look to America as the global leader, not China, Russia, or other adversaries. As American foreign assistance programs end, China and others are already filling the gaps, aligning future generations with their policies and priorities and securing China’s access to critical natural resources.
More prosperous: Education programs have approximately a 10% return on investment. For every additional year of schooling, hourly wages in adulthood increase by 9%. Every $1 invested in girls’ education generates as much as $2.80 in return, equating to billions of dollars in additional GDP growth. A stronger global economy creates markets for U.S. exports and builds strong trade partners. Eleven out of 15 of America’s top trading partners were once recipients of foreign aid.
Read the complete letter below for more on this important issue for consideration during the FY26 appropriations process.