Why are we still propping up dictators? Time to end foreign aid to absolute monarchies.

So, why do we send millions of pounds to countries ruled by absolute monarchs who lock up anyone who disagrees with them? It’s basically paying off despots to keep their own people in line while lining their pockets. We're supposed to be a democracy, right? So, how can we justify supporting regimes that couldn’t care less about human rights or basic freedoms? It’s a moral and political blind spot that needs fixing.

My proposal is simple: stop all direct government-to-government foreign aid to absolute monarchies. This isn't about cutting off all help to people in those countries. We can and should still support NGOs and international organisations working on the ground, focusing on things like education, healthcare, and independent media. But the direct cash flow to the ruling families needs to stop. They’ve got enough oil money, they don’t need ours too.