What A Day
What Will Be Left Of USAID?
Feb 7, 2025
Lindsay Branham, a humanitarian filmmaker with two decades of experience in USAID-funded conflict resolution, dives deep into the implications of drastic staff cuts at USAID. She discusses how these reductions threaten aid to millions who rely on it for basic needs. Branham sheds light on the potential fallout for vulnerable populations and examines public perceptions of U.S. foreign aid during these tumultuous changes. The conversation also highlights the intersection of national security, global health, and emerging challenges in humanitarian efforts.
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Quick takeaways
- The Trump administration's drastic reduction of USAID staff from over 10,000 to around 300 threatens critical global humanitarian efforts and projects.
- The funding cuts highlight a significant political struggle over the perception of foreign aid's importance for both international cooperation and national security.
Deep dives
Impacts of USAID Budget Cuts
The Trump administration plans to drastically reduce the staff of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), cutting the number of employees from over 10,000 to around 300. This move is part of a broader effort led by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, which aims to dismantle established federal programs. The consequences of these cuts will halt thousands of critical projects worldwide, including initiatives targeting HIV transmission and child development. Experts assert that the budget for USAID is minimal compared to its global impact, as it supports vital programs that safeguard American interests and employ thousands of workers domestically.
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