USAID could slash staff to hundreds after placing most on leave

The United States Agency for International Development, commonly known as USAID, is facing significant changes that could drastically reduce its workforce. Under the Trump administration, plans are underway to cut the number of employees from approximately 10,000 to fewer than 300. This decision has raised alarms about the future of foreign aid and the impact on global humanitarian efforts. Starting Friday night, most of the staff, especially those working overseas, will be placed on administrative leave, with only a small number of essential personnel remaining. An online announcement has indicated that preparations are being made for the return of these employees and the termination of contracts for non-essential workers. A union representing USAID employees has reported that only 294 staff members have been classified as essential, which has led to a legal challenge against the proposed cuts. The cuts to USAID are part of a broader initiative by President Trump to reduce federal spending. His administration has been vocal about its belief that USAID has been misusing taxpayer money and not aligning with the 'America First' policy. Polls have shown that many Americans, particularly Republicans, are skeptical about foreign aid, with a recent survey indicating that up to 90% of Republicans believe the country is overspending in this area. This has resulted in numerous programs being frozen in various countries, leaving many in need without the support they rely on. Former leaders of USAID have expressed their concerns regarding the proposed cuts. Gayle Smith, a former administrator, emphasized the importance of USAID's role in responding to humanitarian crises. She stated, 'When you pull all of that out, you send some very dangerous messages. ' Smith believes that the cuts signal a lack of concern for the lives of people in need and undermine the United States' reputation as a reliable partner in global aid efforts. The American Foreign Service Association, along with the American Federation of Government Employees, has filed a lawsuit against the administration, arguing that the president is violating the Constitution and federal law by attempting to dismantle the agency without congressional approval. The lawsuit seeks to appoint an independent acting director for USAID, reopen its offices, restore its website, and reinstate grants and contracts that have been halted. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democrat from Illinois, has also criticized the cuts, calling them 'horrible news for global public health. ' He believes that there are more effective ways to reform USAID without harming its mission. The impact of these cuts is already being felt in countries that rely on USAID for support. Nelson Otwoma, a leader of a non-governmental organization in Kenya that addresses HIV, reported that the freeze on funding has led to significant job losses and increased anxiety among those who depend on the services provided by USAID. He stated, 'We don't know what tomorrow brings. things have ground to a halt. ' Additionally, there are discussions about merging USAID with the state department, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio now acting as the head of USAID. Rubio has defended the administration's actions, assuring agency workers that the U. S. will continue to provide foreign aid, but it must align with American priorities. He stated, 'The United States is not walking away from foreign aid. ' However, he emphasized that the programs must be justifiable and defensible to ensure their continuation. The situation at USAID remains uncertain, and many are left wondering how these changes will affect the vital assistance provided to those in need around the world.