Today, Explained
DOGE-y behavior
Feb 11, 2025
Andrew Natsios, a former USAID administrator and professor, and Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent at Vox.com, delve into the issues surrounding the potential dismantling of USAID. They discuss the geopolitical repercussions of reduced funding, highlighting how it could weaken U.S. influence and empower rivals like China. The conversation also tackles the humanitarian crisis stemming from funding cuts, international aid challenges, and the evolution of political support for foreign aid, emphasizing the dangers of a strategy to undermine crucial agencies like USAID.
27:24
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The dismantling of USAID drastically reduces international humanitarian response capacity, increasing risks of starvation and mass displacement globally.
- Targeting USAID reflects a broader political strategy that undermines U.S. influence in the developing world, allowing other nations like China to step in.
Deep dives
Impact of Dismantling USAID
The dismantling of USAID has severe implications for international humanitarian efforts, as the agency plays a critical role in responding to global crises. Historically, USAID has been responsible for 40% of the international humanitarian response, providing essential assistance during famines, civil wars, and natural disasters. With the agency's shutdown, the response capacity for emergencies has significantly decreased, putting vulnerable populations at risk. This has led to predictions of increased starvation and displacement, resulting in mass movements toward already strained borders in Europe and the United States.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
