World Renowned musician Bob Geldof on Tuesday criticized Europe for doing very little for international development in comparison to the United States. Speaking at the daylong White House Summit on International Development in Washington, DC, Geldof said that as a European himself, his countrymen have done very little for international humanitarian aid. Speaking primarily to the “ethics of dignity,” he urged “do not let Europe hide behind America anymore” when it comes to global commitment to development and aid. Geldof pointed specifically to Italy, saying that they have “slashed its aid levels” significantly, which he said is “pathetic.” While “America is hugely generous,” even though it is far from the continent of Africa, he said that the United Kingdom is “not tolerant of Africa…we ignore it,” he said. The current human atrocities that are being committed because of a lack of international aid from developed to developing countries is “morally repulsive,” and “economically illiterate,” Geldof said. Echoing the message of U.S. President George W. Bush, he also pushed for greater export markets in an effort to increase global economies by their own means.
