The United Nations Foundation and the Better World Campaign recently released the results of a poll conducted by Public Opinion Strategies and Hart Research Associates.
Voters were asked a series of questions regarding their attitudes on the United Nations and various international issues. The makeup of the respondents came from both major political parties -- Democratic and Republican - as well as Independents.
The findings of the poll revealed more than 8 in 10 voters polled wanted the United States to continue to have a strong relationship with the U.N. Moreover, 64 percent of respondents questioned indicated their desire for the U.S. to pay its dues to the U.N. in full and on time.
U.N. Funding Continues To Remain Front and Center
The issue of U.N. funding is vitally important if the global institution is to continue performing its critical work around the world.
However, a number of members on Capitol Hill seem to be ignoring their constituents' wishes.
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations recently passed the fiscal year 2013 State and Foreign Appropriations bill. Regrettably, the measure does not provide full funding to the U.N.; therefore, the U.S. cannot meet its commitment to the global body.
As Peter Yeo, Executive Director of the Better World Campaign noted when discussing this piece of legislation for the hill.com ""the support that the U.S. receives from the U.N. is vital to our national security objectives and we cannot afford to diminish it--
This bill is in complete contrast to what voters revealed in their responses.
Specifically, some of the important aspects of the poll to highlight are:
* 93% believe the U.S. should maintain membership in the World Health Organization (WHO).
* 89% feel the U.S. should support the programs of the world body in the areas of health care, education, livelihood, and rights for women and girls.
* 75% support continued funding for U.N. peacekeeping.
What is interesting to note from these polling numbers is that three-quarters of the survey participants favor U.S. funding for U.N. peacekeeping operations; however, a review of the Foreign Appropriations bill sees significantly less monies allocated than what the Better World Campaign recommended.
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