By Gwurld4026 
USAID Program Cuts: What It Means for Global Aid
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced the completion of a significant reduction in the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programs, with 83% of the agency’s activities being terminated. The remaining 18% of programs are being integrated into the State Department.
Background:
- Executive Order 14169: Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14169, titled “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid.” This order mandated a 90-day pause on all U.S. foreign development assistance programs to reassess their alignment with American interests and values.
- Program Terminations: Following this review, approximately 5,200 out of 6,200 USAID contracts were canceled. The remaining programs, deemed essential, are being consolidated under the State Department to streamline operations.
Implications:
- Global Impact: The abrupt termination of numerous programs has led to the loss of jobs for tens of thousands of individuals and has disrupted services worldwide, including critical health initiatives combating diseases like HIV and malaria.
- Strategic Concerns: There are growing apprehensions that these cuts may create a vacuum that could be exploited by other nations, notably China, potentially expanding their influence in regions previously supported by U.S. aid.
This restructuring marks a profound shift in U.S. foreign aid policy, emphasizing a focus on national interests while raising questions about the future role of the United States in global development and humanitarian efforts.