The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has issued termination notices for numerous aid projects, causing disruptions to critical services for millions worldwide.
The cuts follow a policy review ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump in January, which aimed to assess the alignment of foreign aid with his “America First” agenda. Despite initial assurances of waivers for essential services, a February 25 court document revealed that the administration had decided to terminate more than 90% of USAID programs, including those initially granted waivers.
This decision raises concerns about the long-term impact on vulnerable populations, particularly those reliant on programs addressing HIV, tuberculosis, and other health concerns. The cuts have sent shockwaves through the global aid community, affecting lifesaving initiatives in countries such as Sudan and South Africa.
The termination notices issued by USAID have impacted major United Nations health initiatives, including UNAIDS, the Stop TB Partnership, and Scaling Up Nutrition, as well as projects supporting millions of forcibly displaced people.
The Stop TB Partnership, for example, will be forced to terminate contracts with 140 partner organizations, jeopardizing the crucial role these partners play in diagnosing and treating TB patients. A global non-profit with projects focusing on malaria and newborn health has also reported that the majority of its contracts have been canceled.
The widespread cuts have raised concerns about the future of global health initiatives, with experts warning that millions of people who rely on these services may face severe health consequences.
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