The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has officially closed after six decades of operation, marking a significant shift in US foreign aid policy.
The Trump administration terminated the agency as part of its broader efforts to curb the federal government, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that USAID’s high costs and limited impact justified its closure.
USAID was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy to collaborate with countries globally to combat extreme poverty and foster resilient, democratic societies.
Throughout its history, the agency’s support has been instrumental in significant global achievements, including .
– Agricultural Development: USAID’s contributions were vital to agriculture’s Green Revolution, saving an estimated 1 billion lives worldwide.
– Global Health: The agency played a crucial role in strengthening health systems globally, contributing to a 69% reduction in deaths among children under five since 1990.
Consequences of Closure
The closure of USAID is expected to have severe consequences, including ² ¹ ³:
– Increased Mortality: A study estimates that the dismantling of USAID could result in more than 14 million additional deaths by 2030, including 4.5 million deaths among children younger than 5 years.
– Disruption to Humanitarian Assistance: The agency’s closure will disrupt life-saving humanitarian assistance programs, including emergency food assistance, medical supplies, and infrastructure support.
– Impact on NGOs and Civil Society: The closure will force NGOs to seek alternative funding sources, potentially leading to downsizing or closure of many organizations.
Reaction to Closure
The decision to close USAID has sparked international concern, with.
– Former Presidents Speak Out: Barack Obama and George W. Bush condemned the decision, calling it a “moral failure” that damages America’s reputation and influence.
– Global Health Leaders Warn: Experts estimate millions of deaths could result from Trump-era USAID funding cuts, with programs combating HIV/AIDS, malaria, and child malnutrition already shutting down in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
