The American Agency for global improvement (USAID) has been seen for years as a tool for promoting global “progressivity”. Supporting not only humanitarian aid but besides LGBTQ lobby initiatives, feminism, abortion or left-wing organizations, USAID has become a key player in global social policy. However, the decisions made by the Donald Trump administration shook this model of action by introducing a frost on abroad aid and reviewing its addressees. What does this mean for NGOs and activists around the world?
USAID: from “progressiveism” to budget cuts
The USID, managing a budget of $42.8 billion, accounted for as much as 42% of global humanitarian aid. However, in fresh years her actions have been increasingly criticised by conservative environments in the US, which have accused agencies of backing controversial social projects. president Trump's decision to frost abroad aid for 90 days and carry out a spending audit has caused a real shock to NGOs, which have been dependent on US funds for years.
Mass redundancies in USAID
On February 23, the USAID announced dismissals of around 1,600 employees in the United States, as well as sending on administrative leave all another employees straight employed by the agency worldwide. In total, the USAID employed more than 10,000 people. Only those who are liable for "the basic functions of maintaining the mission, central management or participate in specially designated programmes" are the exception. For many observers, however, this decision is good news, which means limiting the impact of the "progressive" agenda on global policy.
Trump's decision: controversy and consequences
It all started on 20 January erstwhile president Trump signed an executive order ordering the freezing of American abroad aid. Despite attempts to block this decision by judges appointed by erstwhile Democratic Presidents, the Trump administration has consistently implemented its plans. The last effort to block the Regulation was rejected last Friday, meaning that the freezing of the aid remains in force.
American media speculates that the number of USAID employees can be reduced to almost zero. For now, the agency has announced that it will shortly inform the "designated essential staff" to stay on duty. In the meantime, the USAID will cover the costs of repatriation of personnel sent abroad, and until they return to the United States, diplomatic missions will take care of them.
What happens to abroad aid?
Trump's administration's decisions caused concern among activists and non-governmental organizations who have utilized US funds for years. At the same time, for many conservative environments, this is simply a step towards reducing the impact of the "progressive" agenda on global policy. Is freezing of abroad aid the beginning of a fresh era in American abroad policy, or just a temporary change? Time will tell.
USAID employees are leaving jobs. Trump's administration treats them highly mildly. pic.twitter.com/NNoN4wLjhH
— Magda M (@modliszka30) February 23, 2025
Continued here:
A process of mass layoffs is underway in the USAID Left Agency
