Did you hear? USAID, the American agency for international development, has been shut down after six decades of existence! Yes, you read that right. The Trump administration decided to put an end to one of the most important institutions that saved millions of lives worldwide. This agency, founded during John F. Kennedy’s presidency, had a mission to fight extreme poverty and promote resilient, democratic societies. But now? All that is on pause, with many programs shut down or drastically cut.
USAID was a pillar of the Green Revolution in agriculture, credited with saving billions of lives. It also helped strengthen health systems worldwide, contributing to a 69% reduction in child mortality under five years old. But now, thanks to new repressive measures, funding has been cut off. What does this mean? Less aid for the poorest, less support for development and democracy.
This decision is part of a broader trend where the efficiency and independence of institutions are questioned, and controversial billionaire Elon Musk was one of the main critics of USAID. Is this the end of humanitarian aid as we know it? Or just the start of a new era where profit and politics rule?
If you care about the world and the future of aid, it’s time to ask yourself — where do we go from here? And if you have an opinion, don’t be shy to share it. Who knows, maybe your word will spark a change!
