Farewell to USAID: Key Insights on the Agency President Trump Reformed and Its Impact

The Closure of USAID: A Major Shift In Global Aid

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), once a beacon of global humanitarian support, has officially shut down. Established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID aimed to promote global stability through aid and development. However, under the Trump administration, it faced significant budget cuts, program cancellations, and massive staff layoffs.

By July 1, 2025, this historic agency will be fully absorbed into the State Department, leaving behind a troubling legacy of lost opportunities in international aid. Former USAID leaders have voiced concerns about the implications of this transition, worrying that important humanitarian efforts will falter without a dedicated agency to oversee them.

Expert Opinions on the Shift

Atul Gawande, a former leader of global health at USAID, described the situation as “heartbreaking.” He highlighted the agency’s role in saving countless lives through disease prevention and disaster response. Andrew Natsios, another former administrator, explained that the state does not have the infrastructure to manage global aid programs effectively. "This is madness," he said, pointing to growing humanitarian crises that require dedicated attention.

Statistics show a grim future. The Famine Early Warning Systems Network, historically supported by USAID, predicts an increase in hunger as aid programs dissolve. Natsios warned that famine-related migration may surge, putting further pressure on borders that the previous administration sought to secure.

The Historical Context of USAID’s Work

For decades, USAID made significant strides in reducing global poverty and improving health outcomes. The agency was pivotal in combating diseases like smallpox and HIV, averting millions of deaths. Child mortality rates fell by more than half since 1990, largely due to USAID-funded programs. However, many of these advancements are now at risk.

Since the closure announcements began, 94% of USAID’s 13,000 staff have been laid off. Experts warn that the remaining programs will not sustain the impact that USAID once had. Karlan, a former chief economist at USAID, noted that 83% of programs have already been terminated.

Possible Outcomes and Future Implications

While the reorganization might facilitate smoother negotiations across different government departments, experts express skepticism about its effectiveness. The unique culture and expertise required for impactful aid work differ vastly from the priorities of a diplomatic agency. Many experts believe that without a dedicated institution, humanitarian efforts will take a back seat to political considerations.

Despite this bleak outlook, some former officials remain hopeful. They argue that the resilience of the international aid community won’t vanish overnight. Gawande believes that although USAID might not return as it once was, the work of aiding communities will eventually resume. “Humanity has been pursuing this work for centuries,” he said.

Conclusion

The dismantling of USAID represents a significant shift in how the U.S. engages with global humanitarian efforts. The potential for increased suffering due to famine and conflict looms large. As we navigate these changes, the lessons learned from USAID’s legacy may pave the way for future improvements in global aid.

For more information on the historical context and implications of this transition, you can read more at CDC’s Global Health History.

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