- Omer Khan
The recent decision by President Donald Trump to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is a profound misstep that threatens to undermine America’s role in the world and its ability to promote stability, prosperity, and human rights globally. USAID has long been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, providing essential humanitarian assistance, supporting economic development, and promoting democratic governance in over 100 countries. Shuttering this vital agency not only jeopardizes these efforts but also tarnishes America’s standing as a global leader.
- Establishment and History:
USAID was established on November 3, 1961, by President John F. Kennedy through an executive order. The agency was created as part of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961, which aimed to reorganize U.S. foreign assistance programs and counter Soviet influence during the Cold War. By uniting several existing foreign assistance organizations and programs under one agency, USAID became a central player in U.S. efforts to promote socioeconomic development globally.
- Key Achievements:
Over the decades, USAID has made significant contributions to global development and humanitarian efforts. Some of its notable achievements include:
- Global Health Initiatives:
USAID has been instrumental in combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Through initiatives like the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), USAID has provided treatment to millions and helped reduce new infections. - Education Programs:
The agency has supported programs that have increased access to quality education for millions of children, particularly girls who are often marginalized in many societies.
- Economic Development:
USAID has worked to reduce global poverty by providing economic opportunities and supporting sustainable development. The agency has mobilized private capital and invested in programs that promote climate resilience and protect natural resources.
- Humanitarian Assistance:
In times of crisis, USAID has been a key provider of emergency aid, helping communities recover from natural disasters and conflicts.
- Employment Impact:
USAID’s operations have also created numerous employment opportunities both globally and for U.S. citizens. Globally, USAID funds projects in about 120 countries, creating jobs for healthcare workers, educators, engineers, and other professionals. For U.S. citizens, USAID employs thousands of people, including foreign service officers, civil servants, and contractors. The recent reductions in staff, with many employees placed on leave or furloughed, have raised concerns about job losses and the impact on U.S. foreign aid programs.
- Impact on Developing Countries:
The decision to dismantle USAID has profound implications for developing countries that have long relied on its support. The sudden cessation of USAID programs leaves vulnerable communities without access to critical services and resources. Here are some specific impacts:
- Healthcare:
Developing countries that depended on USAID-funded health initiatives may experience setbacks in their fight against infectious diseases, maternal and child health programs, and efforts to strengthen local health systems.
- Education:
Programs that provided access to quality education, especially for girls and marginalized groups, may face disruptions, hindering progress towards educational equity and improved literacy rates.
- Economic Development:
The withdrawal of USAID support for small businesses and agricultural projects could stall economic growth, exacerbate poverty, and reduce job opportunities in these regions.
- Humanitarian Aid:
Communities affected by conflicts, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises may find themselves without the necessary aid and support to recover and rebuild, leading to prolonged suffering and instability.
- Environmental Conservation:
Initiatives aimed at promoting climate resilience and sustainable practices may be abandoned, leaving countries ill-equipped to address environmental challenges and protect natural resources.
- USAID’s Work in Pakistan:
Since its establishment in 1961, USAID has been actively involved in various development projects across Pakistan. The agency’s efforts have spanned multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, economic development, humanitarian assistance, environmental conservation, and governance:
- Healthcare:
USAID has supported initiatives to combat infectious diseases, improve maternal and child health, and enhance access to quality healthcare services. These efforts have led to significant improvements in health outcomes for millions of Pakistanis.
- Education:
The agency has promoted access to quality education, particularly for girls and marginalized communities. USAID’s programs have focused on enhancing teacher training, developing educational infrastructure, and increasing enrollment rates.
- Economic Development:
USAID has worked to stimulate economic growth by supporting small businesses, promoting entrepreneurship, and enhancing agricultural productivity. These efforts have created jobs, boosted local economies, and reduced poverty.
- Humanitarian Assistance:
In times of crisis, USAID has provided critical humanitarian assistance to communities affected by natural disasters and conflicts. The agency has supported disaster relief efforts, helped rebuild infrastructure, and provided essential services.
- Environmental Conservation:
USAID has invested in programs that promote climate resilience, improve water management, conserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
- Strengthening Governance:
The agency has worked to improve transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, fostering a more stable and prosperous society.
- The Impact of the Shutdown:
The decision to dismantle USAID has already had far-reaching consequences. Thousands of USAID employees have been placed on administrative leave, disrupting ongoing projects and leaving vulnerable communities without critical support. The sudden withdrawal of aid and expertise from conflict zones, disaster-stricken areas, and fragile states exacerbates humanitarian crises and undermines efforts to build resilient societies.
Moreover, the legal challenges and resistance from labor unions and lawmakers underscore the constitutional and ethical concerns surrounding this decision. The federal court’s temporary restraining order blocking the administrative leave of USAID employees highlights the questionable legality of Trump’s actions. The dismantling of USAID raises fundamental questions about the balance of power between the executive branch and Congress, as well as the ethical responsibility of the U.S. to support global development.
- The Future of USAID:
The international community is also watching closely, with many countries expressing concern about the potential vacuum left by USAID’s absence. America’s foreign aid has been a tool for fostering goodwill, building alliances, and promoting global stability. With the agency’s closure, other nations may step in to fill the void, shifting the balance of influence and potentially undermining U.S. interests abroad.
In a time when global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and geopolitical instability require coordinated international efforts, dismantling USAID is a step backward. It sends a message that the U.S. is retreating from its commitment to global development and humanitarianism.
Instead of dismantling USAID, the administration should focus on reforming and strengthening the agency to ensure greater transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Cutting off aid and withdrawing support is not the answer. Rather, we should invest in building a more effective and impactful foreign aid system that reflects our values and commitments as a global leader.
The future of USAID and America’s role in the world hangs in the balance. It is imperative that we recognize the importance of this agency and advocate for its continued existence and improvement. The stakes are too high, and the consequences too severe, to allow this vital institution to be dismantled without a fight.