IO Podcast | Episode 56
Olav Dirkmaat, who holds a PhD in economics from Rey Juan Carlos University, joins the Impunity Observer podcast to discuss his latest research on the ideological influence of foreign aid. His study, “Foreign Aid: An Ideological Hobby,” published by Francisco Marroquín University’s Public Policy Analysis Center (CADEP), examines how taxpayer dollars from the United States and Europe are shaping public policy and public opinion in Guatemala.
Dirkmaat explains that the foreign-aid tax burden is widely dispersed across constituents in developed nations, which likely explains the minimal oversight. However, in developing countries, such funds can be used to influence public perception and implement projects that do not align with local conditions or needs. Originally from the Netherlands, Dirkmaat has observed this phenomenon firsthand in Guatemala, where a network of 450 organizations receive funding from foreign governments.
Through this academic effort, Dirkmaat seeks to clarify how foreign funding has shaped culture, political narratives, policies, and even electoral outcomes. He encourages readers to critically examine his findings and remain skeptical of the media narratives surrounding Guatemala.
He also warns that USAID is just one component of a broader global strategy to shape public opinion. European countries are also involved. However, he observes a recent rise of conservative-leaning politicians winning elections. That suggests rising awareness and a pushback against foreign aid due to its politicization and spread of a progressive agenda.
Recommended Links
- Follow Olav Dirkmaat on X.
- Follow CADEP on X.
- “Foreign Aid’s Self-Interest Is Out of the Closet,” Impunity Observer.
- “A Tale of Two Agencies: USAID versus the Alliance for Progress,” Impunity Observer
- “What a Donald Trump Policy Means for Guatemala,” Impunity Observer.
