Swamp Notes The real cost of gutting USAID
Aug 9, 2025
In this discussion, George Ingram, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute, and David Pilling, Africa editor at the Financial Times, delve into the fallout from the reduction of USAID funding. They highlight the alarming consequences for global health and agriculture, with vulnerable populations facing increased risks. The conversation also touches on how decreased U.S. aid is shifting diplomatic dynamics, pushing countries to embrace trade over aid. Finally, they explore the need for a reimagined approach to global assistance that fosters independence and innovation.
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USAID Was The Central U.S. Aid Agency
- USAID consolidated most U.S. foreign aid and drove strategy for decades.
- George Ingram says it represented about 60% of U.S. assistance until six months ago.
Shutdown Caused Immediate Panic
- The shutdown triggered stop-work orders and widespread panic among implementers.
- David Pilling recounts people told to 'cease to work now' even mid-projects.
Clinical Trials Were Forced To Halt
- Clinical trials were interrupted and staff were forbidden from contacting patients.
- David Pilling describes this as a major immediate harm to ongoing research.
