Trump freezes foreign aid affecting global help

Source: The post Trump freezes foreign aid affecting global help has been created, based on the article “Crippling aid work: The fallout of U.S. foreign assistance freeze will be far-reaching” published in “The Hindu” on 7th February 2025.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations-Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests,

Context: The article discusses U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze foreign aid. It explains that USAID funding is crucial for global aid. The freeze disrupts humanitarian efforts. The move is seen as inward-looking and could harm millions who depend on U.S. assistance.

For detailed information on Trump’s America First Policy and Global Impact read this article here

What is USAID and why is it important?

1. USAID (United States Agency for International Development) was established in 1961 under the Foreign Assistance Act.
2. It provides humanitarian and development aid worldwide. According to USASpending.gov, USAID was allocated $44.2 billion in the 2024 budget.
3. This is 0.4% of the U.S. federal budget, but media reports say USAID provided nearly 42% of UN-tracked humanitarian aid in 2024.

How does USAID help different countries?

1. USAID funds programs in health care, food aid, and policy advocacy.
2. In India, it has supported education, immunization, HIV/TB prevention, polio eradication, and child health since the 1960s. In the latest fiscal year, USAID contributions to India were over $150 million.
3. In conflict-ridden regions, USAID is a lifeline for food and medical aid.

What actions has the Trump administration taken?

1. Foreign Aid Freeze: On his first day in office, President Donald Trump imposed a 90-day freeze on foreign aid.
2. Justification for the Freeze: The administration cited inefficiencies and ideological opposition to USAID as reasons.
3. Criticism of USAID: Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency, called USAID a “viper’s nest of radical-left Marxists.”
4. The government has also:

• Removed content from the USAID website
• Placed USAID personnel on administrative leave
• Ordered the return of overseas USAID staff within 30 days

What are the consequences of this decision?

Withdrawing from foreign aid will disrupt global humanitarian structures. Millions of people will lose access to food, healthcare, and critical resources. This decision shows an inward-looking approach and weakens U.S. leadership in global development.

Question for practice:

Evaluate the impact of President Donald Trump’s foreign aid freeze on global humanitarian efforts and U.S. leadership in development.