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KQED's Forum
USAID Closure Puts “Millions of Lives at Risk,” Humanitarian Groups Warn
Feb 10, 2025
In this discussion, Jeremy Konyndyk, President of Refugees International and former USAID official, joins Joia Mukherjee, Chief Medical Officer of Partners In Health, and reporter Elissa Miolene from Devex. They explore the imminent threats posed by the proposed closure of USAID, highlighting its critical role in global health, including vital programs like PEPFAR. The guests detail the dire consequences for millions relying on humanitarian aid, as funding cuts disrupt essential services and deepen crises in vulnerable communities worldwide.
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Quick takeaways
- The potential closure of USAID threatens essential humanitarian programs critical for children's health, disaster relief, and HIV treatment globally.
- Internal conflicts and external pressures have created operational barriers for USAID employees, jeopardizing their ability to effectively provide aid.
Deep dives
Impact of USAID Cuts on Global Health Programs
The cuts to USAID threaten significant humanitarian aid across the globe, impacting critical programs in children's health, disaster relief, and HIV treatment. Losing USAID support can result in diminished healthcare access for some of the world's most vulnerable populations, with programs essential for preventing and treating diseases like HIV being jeopardized. For example, the suspension of funding can directly disrupt the distribution of life-saving medications and resources that rely heavily on USAID's support. As personnel on the ground are pulled back and funding freezes take hold, the immediate effects can lead to an increase in health crises, especially in regions already overwhelmed by challenges.
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