African Aid

Part of Obama's message is most assuredly that US assistance, heretofore strong and, at times, unquestioning, may in the future be linked to a compelling proof of democracy, openness and good governance.

We know that when the G8 chooses to act it can make a real impact on child deaths. But this summit's failure on aid for Africa suggests a real low point.

Italy has only done 3% of what Prime Minister Berlusconi personally and nationally promised to Africa in 2005. So it is quite proper to ask -- what legitimacy does Italy have to run the G8 this year?

The argument that aid isn't working is gathering global momentum. But we should be wary of the analysis offered in Dambisa Moyo's influential new book, Dead Aid.

Between 1970 and 1998, while aid flows were at their peak, poverty in Africa actually rose from 11% to 66%. Instead of extending credit lines and throwing celebrity rock concerts, perhaps it is time to re-examine what has worked.

Chinese President Hu Jintao Thursday vowed to increase aid to African countries, cancel part of their debts, and expand trade with and investment in t...