The Trump administration’s cuts to 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts are causing alarm among health groups and NGOs, predicting the collapse of vital humanitarian programs. These budget reductions will impact initiatives aimed at combating hunger and disease, potentially hindering U.S. global influence and stability. Immediate terminations have left vulnerable populations in dire conditions, notably in South Africa’s HIV programs.
The Trump administration’s recent initiative to terminate 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts has stunned health groups and non-governmental organizations worldwide, foreseeing catastrophic impacts on humanitarian programs. This drastic decision followed President Trump’s announcement for a 90-day review of federal spending, resulting in the defunding of critical programs combating hunger and disease that serve millions globally.
InterAction, a coalition of U.S.-based NGOs, expressed profound concern over the implications of these cuts, predicting severe hardships: “Women and children will go hungry, food will rot in warehouses while families starve”. They assert that these actions will not enhance American security but will instead sow instability and desperation among affected populations.
The termination of approximately 10,000 contracts signals a crippling blow to American foreign assistance, as reported by InterAction. Funding withdrawals amounting to $60 billion are said to stem from the administration’s belief that these programs do not serve U.S. interests.
Liz Schrayer, president of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, cautioned that this approach could diminish American influence internationally, allowing countries like China, Russia, and Iran to fill the void. She emphasized the necessity for accountability regarding the repercussions of cutting aid in critical areas.
The impact in South Africa is dire, with health organizations indicating that vital USAID contracts for HIV programs were abruptly terminated, leaving vulnerable populations without support. Although the U.S. funds just 17% of South Africa’s HIV program, significant cuts jeopardize its operation due to reliance on U.S. funding for essential services.
The abrupt cessation of aid is part of a broader strategy by Trump and his advisor Elon Musk, aimed at reducing the federal government’s size. Both have criticized USAID projects as promoting a liberal agenda, deeming these funding efforts wasteful. Letters terminating aid indicated that programs were deemed misaligned with the agency’s priorities.
Despite Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s efforts to implement a waiver program for essential services, many critical programs remain underfunded. The rapid implementation of these cuts was evident from the immediate suspension of aid on Trump’s first day back in office.
In a notable move, thousands of USAID staff faced immediate layoffs or forced leave, signaling a shift in operational focus. These occurrences underscore the dramatic changes occurring within U.S. foreign aid delivered through USAID, which has seen significant alterations under the current administration.
The Trump administration’s decision to slash 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts poses significant risks to essential humanitarian programs globally, threatening food security and health services for millions. The abrupt nature of these cuts, combined with the reduction of staff, further complicates the provision of life-saving aid. Criticism from various organizations indicates that such measures could undermine U.S. global influence and exacerbate instability in affected regions.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
