The Trump administration’s 90-day freeze on foreign aid disrupted vital humanitarian programs globally. USAID serves as the principal supporter for vulnerable populations, with many countries reliant on its assistance. The economic fallout was significant, affecting healthcare services and undermining public health initiatives worldwide.
The Trump administration’s decision to impose a 90-day freeze on foreign aid resulted in significant consequences, disrupting crucial humanitarian programs on a global scale. As the primary donor agency for international aid, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is vital in providing support to vulnerable populations across various nations.
If USAID funding were halted for an extended period, the economic repercussions would surpass 1% of Gross National Income (GNI) in 23 nations, with eight of those experiencing declines of 3% or greater. Among the 26 poorest countries, eight—South Sudan, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia, Afghanistan, Sudan, Uganda, and Ethiopia—depend on USAID for more than 20% of their overall assistance, leaving them struggling to maintain essential programs and services.
Within a week of the funding freeze, Secretary of State Marco Rubio authorized a waiver for lifesaving humanitarian aid and essential medications. However, the negative consequences had already commenced, with the administration also initiating the closure of USAID offices and programs worldwide, which severely impacted initiatives aimed at combating diseases such as HIV, polio, mpox, and bird flu.
The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that this freeze on tens of billions of dollars in foreign aid hindered HIV treatments and healthcare services in over 50 countries. Clinics shut down, and healthcare workers faced furloughs, leading to a substantial decline in service availability. The repercussions of the aid suspension have extended globally, threatening lives, livelihoods, and advancement in public health and education.
In summary, the Trump administration’s freeze on foreign aid had extensive and detrimental effects on numerous humanitarian efforts worldwide. With substantial reliance on USAID for essential support, many vulnerable countries struggled to maintain critical services. The temporary pause not only affected funding but also led to program closures and reduced health services, ultimately jeopardizing public health and educational progress across various nations.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
