In brief
As part of the Trump administration's cost-cutting measures, USAID could see its workforce shrink from around 10,000 to fewer than 300. Thousands are expected to be placed on administrative leave, leading to a significant disruption in global aid efforts.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is facing a potential staff reduction that could slash its employees from approximately 10,000 to below 300 due to major budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration. Starting Friday night, nearly all staff, except for a few deemed essential, will be placed on administrative leave. This move has sparked protests and legal challenges, as many employees representing unions are fighting against the proposed plan, which they label as "outrageous." Former USAID chief Brian Atwood has expressed concern that such cuts could jeopardize an agency responsible for saving millions of lives globally. Public opinion appears to be divided, with a recent poll showing most Republicans believing the U.S. overspends on foreign aid. Currently, the U.S. plays a leading role in providing humanitarian assistance worldwide, operating across over 60 countries. In light of these developments, unions have filed a lawsuit challenging the abrupt cuts, arguing that the president's actions are unconstitutional without congressional authorization. The lawsuit insists on the necessity for a new acting director of USAID, the reopening of its offices, and the reinstatement of various grants and contracts. Despite the fears of aid disruption, U.S. officials maintain that foreign aid will not cease but will be realigned to meet U.S. priorities. As uncertainty looms, thousands of aid workers prepare for administrative leave, resulting in a potential humanitarian crisis caused by the sudden halt of USAID programs.
