Image Source: Newsweek.
When President Donald Trump took office, he signed an executive order that suspended many USAID (United States Agency for International Development) foreign aid programs. The only exceptions were programs that benefit Israel and Egypt.
This 90-day freeze affected many initiatives in Latin America, forcing organizations that depend on USAID funding to lay off workers and halt projects. To address this, Trump appointed Marco Rubio as the acting administrator of USAID, stirring concern across Latin America.
Why is USAID important in Latin America?
USAID, created in 1961 during John F. Kennedy’s presidency, has about 10,000 employees and operates in 60 missions worldwide. In 2023, it allocated around $43.4 billion for international assistance. This funding supports various partners, including NGOs, universities, and governments, not just in Latin America but across the globe. Programs focusing on governance received the largest share, followed by humanitarian aid and health initiatives.
Countries like Colombia ($389.4 million), Haiti ($316 million), and Venezuela ($205 million) particularly depend on this support, as does Ecuador, which received $46.5 million in 2023.
USAID’s Role in Ecuador
USAID has significantly boosted Ecuador’s development since its establishment. It has collaborated with the Ecuadorian government on issues like health, education, and the environment. In fact, many environmental NGOs in the country rely heavily on USAID funding, which makes up a large portion of their budgets.
One recent initiative funded by USAID focuses on environmental education in the Galapagos Islands, developed in partnership with the United Nations. In 2025, several new projects are already in the planning stages.
USAID also prioritizes environmental protection in Ecuador. It supports conservation efforts and sustainable resource-management projects. These initiatives help safeguard important ecosystems, like mangroves and the Amazon Rainforest, and promote disaster preparedness and sustainable agriculture.
With its rich biodiversity, Ecuador benefits greatly from USAID’s conservation efforts. The agency aids in protecting habitats for endangered species and Indigenous communities, while also fostering alternative livelihoods like ecotourism.
What happens if funding is frozen?
Freezing USAID funds could harm the quality of life for many in developing countries. Numerous jobs depend on this financial support, which is vital for local communities. Without these programs, communities might face environmental degradation and limited economic opportunities, potentially pushing young people toward crime.
Ecuador faces a security crisis and governance challenges. Reduced aid could impact civil society organizations that provide critical services and support that the government struggles to fulfill.
Conclusion
USAID’s work in Ecuador spans health, education, governance, and environmental initiatives, playing a crucial role in the country’s development. A freeze on funds threatens to destabilize these efforts. While the goal may be to align aid with new policies, the loss of these programs could undermine the U.S.’s global leadership and influence. Countries like China are already making significant investments in Ecuador, and this could shift the balance of power in foreign aid.
As the world navigates uncertainties, it’s essential to strengthen organizations like USAID that represent U.S. values in global development.
Verónica Arias is a Senior Fellow at Global Americans and has over 20 years of experience in environmental law and management. She earned her master’s degree in International Environmental Law from American University.
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Ecuador,U.S.,USAID