Sudanese refugees in Chad, primarily women and children, face severe hardships after U.S. foreign aid cuts. HIAS, which provided essential support, had to suspend operations temporarily. Schools supporting over 32,000 students have also faced closures. The Trump administration’s cuts to U.S. aid programs total tens of billions, exacerbating the crisis for refugees reliant on this assistance.
In the Aboutengue Camp in Chad, Sudanese refugees, predominantly women and children, urgently seek assistance following recent drastic reductions in U.S. foreign aid. Fatehiyya Mohamed Adam, a refugee who escaped war in 2023, has lost everything due to a fire in the camp. Previously supported by HIAS, a refugee advocacy organization, her access to emergency services was severely hampered after the U.S. government announced significant funding cuts in January.
With a sizable refugee population relying heavily on foreign aid, the temporary suspension of HIAS’s operations raised concerns. While their support was reinstated in March, uncertainty remains regarding the continuation and funding of specific programs. A woman, who preferred to remain anonymous for safety, recounted how HIAS provided support during a domestic violence incident, but services like family counseling are now on hold due to budget constraints.
Additionally, the closure of schools run by Jesuit Refugee Services has severely impacted over 32,000 students, including Kawsar Mahamat Yakub. Despite some teachers returning to volunteer, many students have dropped out, and the school’s future is uncertain. Furthermore, the Trump administration has slashed U.S.A.I.D. programs by 83% and State Department grants by 40%, attributing cuts to perceived inefficiencies and claims that they do not advance U.S. interests. The total reductions represent tens of billions in assistance globally.
The situation of Sudanese refugees in Chad exemplifies the dire consequences of substantial cuts in U.S. foreign aid. With essential services suspended and educational institutions closing, the well-being of thousands hangs in the balance. The uncertainty surrounding the future of support programs emphasizes the critical need for sustainable foreign assistance.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
