President Donald Trump's decision to freeze international aid for 90 days and shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development has had broad impacts on various aid programs around the world, resulting in layoffs, program shutdowns, and negative consequences for global health and security.
Key Points
Trump's decision led to layoffs, program shutdowns, and negative consequences for global health and security
USAID managed around $44 billion in global assistance in the year ending Sept. 20, 2023
PEPFAR, a successful health program, was brought to a halt due to the funding freeze
USAID's dismantling could invite the next pandemic and impact America's security
The freeze on aid funding could lead to the U.S. losing its standing on the global stage
Pros
Provided insight into the repercussions of freezing international aid
Highlighted the importance of aid programs in global health and security
Cons
Resulted in layoffs and program shutdowns
Negatively impacted health programs abroad and at home
Raised concerns about global security and the U.S.'s standing on the global stage