The US DOGE has cancelled over $750 million in foreign aid, including $21 million for voter turnout in India and $29 million for Bangladesh’s political landscape. This decision reflects a critical reassessment of US taxpayer resources used in international electoral processes and various other projects.
The US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has disclosed a significant cancellation of over $750 million of taxpayer funds previously designated for international initiatives, particularly election-related projects in India and Bangladesh. The department’s announcement has raised questions regarding the allocation of these resources in foreign electoral affairs.
Among the notable cuts are $21 million aimed at increasing voter turnout in India and $29 million earmarked for enhancing the political environment in Bangladesh. This has sparked discussions on the appropriateness of utilizing US taxpayer dollars in foreign elections.
In addition to the election expenditures, DOGE has terminated various foreign aid programs across multiple sectors. This includes health-related projects such as a $10 million initiative for voluntary male circumcision in Mozambique, designed to lower HIV transmission rates.
Governance initiatives also faced significant reductions, such as $2.3 million for supporting independent voices in Cambodia and $32 million allocated to the Prague Civil Society Centre. Additionally, $486 million was cut from the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening, which included $22 million designated for Moldova’s electoral process.
Further cancellations impact governance and transparency projects, such as $14 million intended for better public procurement in Serbia and $20 million related to fiscal federalism in Nepal. Other projects cut included $1.5 million for voter confidence initiatives in Liberia and various social programs in other regions.
In summary, the US Department of Government Efficiency has cancelled substantial foreign aid and election-related initiatives, leading to over $750 million in reallocated taxpayer dollars. The decision to eliminate funding for voter turnout in India and political strengthening in Bangladesh has reignited the debate over the effectiveness and ethics of US financial involvement in foreign electoral processes. Moreover, the consolidated cuts across health and governance sectors highlight a broader reconsideration of US foreign aid priorities.
Original Source: www.financialexpress.com
