Mass Layoffs at USAID: Trump Administration Cuts 2,000 Jobs and Puts Thousands on Leave – What It Means for You

On Sunday, the Trump administration announced significant changes at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). They plan to cut about 2,000 positions and put most of the staff on leave, both in the U.S. and around the world.

This decision follows a federal judge’s ruling that allows the administration to proceed with these changes. U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols dismissed a lawsuit from USAID employees who sought to stop the layoffs.

According to the notices sent to employees, effective February 23, 2025, almost all direct hire personnel at USAID will be placed on administrative leave. Only those working on essential functions or special programs will remain active.

The cuts are part of a broader effort by the administration to reduce costs and reorganize USAID. They argue that many aid programs are ineffective and contribute to a liberal agenda. This initiative has already led to the closure of the agency’s headquarters and the suspension of numerous aid projects worldwide.

There are concerns about employees stationed overseas, especially since many have lost access to essential government communications. USAID has stated it is committed to keeping these workers safe and assured them they would retain access to critical systems and resources while abroad.

Employees on leave will also be offered benefits such as voluntary travel back home. Judge Nichols expressed initial concerns about the safety of workers in high-risk areas but was reassured by the administration that safety measures would remain in place. This includes access to two-way radios for emergencies and a phone app with a panic button.

Despite these changes, other legal challenges are affecting USAID’s operations. A different judge has temporarily halted the freeze on foreign assistance, stating that the administration had not followed his order to restore funding to various programs.

The sweeping nature of the notifications, especially for contractors losing their jobs, has raised concerns. Many received letters without specific details about their positions, complicating their ability to apply for unemployment benefits.