Washington: The Trump administration's decision to freeze USAID funding has led to significant disruptions across global humanitarian efforts, raising concerns among international organizations. The US Agency for International Development (USAID), the world's largest donor of humanitarian aid, is under political scrutiny as the administration contemplates merging it with the State Department to streamline federal operations.
According to Anadolu Agency, the freeze, announced on January 20, halted USAID's budget for a 90-day review to ensure it aligns with President Trump's "America First" policy. The White House has expressed concerns that USAID's initiatives sometimes do not align with American interests and may destabilize global peace. As a result, USAID announced that most direct-hire personnel would be placed on leave, with overseas staff set to be repatriated within 30 days.
Founded in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID operates in over 130 countries, employing over 10,000 staff. In Fiscal Year 2023, USAID managed over $40 billion, focusing on governance, humanitarian assistance, and health. Notably, Ukraine was the top beneficiary, receiving $16 billion, followed by Ethiopia and Jordan.
The funding freeze has significantly impacted critical programs worldwide. In Ukraine, infrastructure rebuilding and agricultural support have been hit, while NGOs countering Russian disinformation face funding challenges. The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) is also affected, with disruptions anticipated in HIV services in countries like South Africa and Ethiopia.
In Latin America, humanitarian operations in Colombia, Brazil, and Central America have been suspended, affecting thousands displaced by violence and Venezuelan migrants. In South Asia, the freeze jeopardizes health services for millions in Pakistan and Bangladesh, with significant risks to maternal and reproductive health care.
President Trump and his administration have criticized USAID for funding projects they deem controversial or wasteful, including diversity initiatives in Serbia, electric vehicle funding in Vietnam, and LGBTQ+ advocacy globally. The administration argues these examples signify waste and misuse of funds, prompting the funding freeze.
Despite these criticisms, USAID has supported LGBTQ+ advocacy groups worldwide, allocating funds to organizations in Guatemala, South Africa, and Serbia. However, the funding freeze has halted support for many of these initiatives, cutting off expected funding through the end of FY 2025.