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The Freeze on US Foreign Aid to Mexico

Foreign Aid to MexicoThe U.S. freeze on humanitarian aid has left many of Mexico’s private humanitarian organizations defunded. In Tijuana, Baja California, centers for migrants, low-income and houseless folk are experiencing trouble. A Mexican city so close to the U.S. is experiencing such a different reality than the U.S. city of San Diego. These organizations provided help with job search, medical care, psychological care, food, childcare and shelter. According to a report from inewsource, the freeze severely cut funding to dozens of programs that aided Mexico’s vulnerable population.

The Bigger Picture

Though the U.S. may only spend 1% of its federal budget on foreign aid, the impact is still strong. By withdrawing foreign aid to Mexico, the U.S. has hurt a lot of Mexico’s humanitarian organizations, ultimately hurting the people that are most in need. Some more examples of Mexican organizations affected by the freeze in foreign aid are Casa Frida, Comunidad AVES, Peace Oasis of the Holy Spirit Amparito shelter, Asylum Access Mexico and the Federal Mission Commission for Refugee Assistance. All of these organizations help asylum seekers and refugees with ranges of services.

Conversely, remittances from the U.S. to Mexico continue and are a strong source of foreign aid to Mexico. Remittances often work by Mexican immigrants working in the U.S. and sending the money they earn to their families back at home for a better means of life. Normal workers are leading this cash flow into Mexico, not the government, and they are not suitable for institutional humanitarian programs.

The Importance of Foreign Aid

Inequality threatens national security. According to the American Foreign Service Association, strategic foreign assistance can prevent instability, reduce the need for costly military interventions and strengthen global partnerships. It is never good to have one nation struggling so much, as it can lead to a potential uprising. Foreign aid has been a proven form of violence prevention.

One-third of Mexico’s population (or 36.3%) lived in poverty in 2022 and an additional 7.1% of Mexico’s population lived in extreme poverty. This is more than 40% of the population.

Given Mexico’s large population in poverty, foreign aid to Mexico is incredibly useful for the country. Mexico has used foreign aid in sectors like security and justice, economic development, humanitarian assistance and border security. An example of how foreign aid was used is in the Merida Initiative. This initiative fell under the security and justice sector and now La Merida is one of the safest places in Mexico. Foreign aid is important to Mexico.

Mexico’s Foreign Aid Outlook

Political analysts suggest that under their new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico may start investing more in regional humanitarian efforts, further positioning itself as a regional leader in Central America. Oxford Analytica reports that this shift could lead to increased support for international aid programs. Though the U.S. may not be sending foreign aid to Mexico for the time being, other countries are still offering their support like France, Japan, Uruguay, Chile and Spain.

The freeze on U.S. foreign aid to Mexico has led to widespread funding cuts for humanitarian organizations that support vulnerable populations. While remittances and other nations continue to provide support, the absence of the structured assistance that U.S. aid once offered is felt. With poverty affecting over 40% of Mexico’s population, the lack of foreign aid to Mexico hurts people in need. As Mexico navigates this change, the long-term effects of reduced U.S. support remain to be seen.

– Andrea Roji

Andrea is based in Chula Vista, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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USAID Programs in Belarus: Civil Society and Economic Resilience

USAID Programs in Belarus: Strengthening Civil Society and Economic ResilienceRecent years have seen tight restrictions on foreign aid programs in Belarus, but the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) still promotes targeted programs that make it to Belarus through regional partnerships. Indeed, such initiatives, on a smaller scale, concentrate on civil society assistance, public health and modest economic development. For a state undergoing political repression and economic uncertainty, even modest international programs can potentially enhance the quality of life and preserve access to provisions that are frequently unavailable through state systems.

Supporting Civil Society Under Pressure

Belarus is one of the least hospitable places for independent organizations in Eastern Europe. Independent groups are under legal pressure, state surveillance and have little ability to raise funds. Despite the obstacles, USAID works with international organizations and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) based in neighboring Lithuania and Poland to engage Belarusian activists, educators and community leaders.

Through these partnerships, USAID facilitates online legal livelihood education, digital safety training and capacity-building workshops for NGOs and independent media. Other programs concentrate on training Belarusian organizations to function safely, navigate legal risks or move their operation and work in exile. Other organizations offer training for journalists and youth leaders who focus on local development projects or social advocacy campaigns. These programs might be small in scale, but they are helping to maintain a store of civic knowledge that is under abundant pressure in the country, where independent institutions find themselves under increasing threat.

HIV/AIDS Prevention and Access

In the health field, USAID has long concentrated on the prevention and care for those with HIV/AIDS. Belarus continues to be included among countries in regional health programs prepared by international organizations, such as UNAIDS and the World Health Organization (WHO). USAID supports these efforts by underwriting outreach, training of health workers and community-based testing and education.

These projects are at the forefront of spreading the best global practices of care and nondiscriminatory treatment to Belarusian clinics and health care workers. This is especially vital in rural and underserved areas where stigma, ignorance and funding challenges impede efforts to combat the disease. While health programming does have to operate within state-approved spaces, it is one of the few spaces where international cooperation actually remains possible.

Basic Economic and Digital Skills Training

Belarus has faced increasing economic pressure in recent years, with rising unemployment, low wages and brain drain among young professionals. USAID-funded training programs, delivered online or through regional hubs, help fill this gap by teaching financial literacy, digital skills and basic entrepreneurship.

Participants — often young adults or individuals from marginalized communities — gain practical tools to start small businesses, improve budgeting or enter new job markets. Some programs focus on the IT sector, while others support craft-based entrepreneurship, agriculture or logistics. While the reach of these programs is modest, they offer opportunities to build resilience and reduce economic dependency on unstable state systems.

USAID Programs in Belarus

Although Belarus is not a major recipient of U.S. foreign assistance, USAID’s indirect engagement continues to provide vital support where it is most impactful. These programs don’t aim to change political systems — they aim to improve access to knowledge, health and opportunity for everyday people navigating life in a restrictive environment.

For the U.S., maintaining these connections is a strategic one. Supporting civil society, health care and economic education — even at a small scale — helps create long-term conditions for stability, dignity and local leadership.

– Polina Makarova

Polina is based in New York, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How USAID Programs in Russia Have Addressed HIV/AIDS and TB

USAID Programs in RussiaAs the U.S. government considers further cuts to international assistance, USAID programs in Russia can show what the U.S. can accomplish when it comes to combating disease and poverty. However, it also can be a cautionary tale of what can happen to a country’s most vulnerable when USAID programs are suddenly cut without an adequate replacement. 

Starting in 1992, after the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union, the United States began a robust program of assistance to the new Russian Federation starting with the Freedom Support Act authorizing USAID to begin work in Russia. USAID programs in Russia included initiatives to assist with democratic reform, market assistance, anti-corruption programs, but mostly important disease eradication.

USAID’s Fight Against TB and HIV/AIDS in Russia

USAID programs in Russia fought both tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. Starting in 1999, USAID began to focus specifically on drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), which had become a major issue in the former Soviet Union, especially in Russia. According to William B. Taylor, coordinator of U.S. assistance to Newly Independent States, in 1999, USAID was critical to coordinating between Russian authorities, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Red Cross to combat TB, starting in three provinces and then the rest of Russia. Additionally, USAID also helped provide more than $200 million in critical medical supplies.

By 1999, the spike of TB incidence finally ended and began to decline through the early 2010s. TB mortality rates also declined and experts attributed much of this progress to early detection and prevention programs in Russia. 

Additionally, USAID was instrumental in fighting HIV/AIDS in Russia on several levels; increasing coordination between Russian and American biomedical researchers, assisting with vaccine development, infection prevention, treatment and increasing awareness among Russian business and civic leaders. In 2010, USAID funded the HIV Prevention for At-Risk Populations in Russia program, which treated thousands in the city of Kazan alone.

The Current Situation

According to former U.S. ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul, “Over the last twenty years, the USAID Mission in Russia has worked with Russian government officials and Russian non-governmental organizations to achieve a remarkable record of success.” However, in 2012, due to rising tensions between the Russian and U.S. governments, Vladimir Putin ordered USAID to cease its operations in Russia.

The Russian government argued that Russian society had moved past the need for external aid. In reality, living conditions in Russia have continued to be extremely difficult. By 2018, Russia became the third-highest country for TB infection, largely due to its inability to follow WHO guidelines.

The Russian Red Cross had to end five different programs dedicated to fighting TB since it received funding from USAID. That being said, thanks to continued funding and cooperation with other international organizations, TB mortality and incidence rate continues to modestly decline, despite setbacks. However, much of the progress in fighting HIV/AIDS in Russia has suffered major reversals. By 2017, Russia had the largest number of HIV-positive individuals in Europe. As of 2024, 30,000 Russians annually are estimated to have died from HIV/AIDS.

Looking Ahead

The history of USAID programs in Russia highlights the danger of suddenly turning off humanitarian aid. In 2025, freezes of USAID funding in places like Ukraine have threatened HIV treatment, endangering more than 116,000 people. However, that history also serves as an encouragement of what is possible with U.S. support.

– Joseph Laughon

Joseph is based in Sacramento, CA, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikipedia Commons

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USAID Programs in Thailand and Myanmar After Earthquake

USAID Programs in ThailandDisplaced persons seeking refuge in Thailand following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar in March are amongst those facing dwindling American assistance after the United States federal government initiated drastic reductions to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) programs in Thailand, Myanmar and other countries in need of humanitarian aid. While non-government organizations (NGOs) are working diligently to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the second-largest recorded earthquake in Southeast Asia and its hundreds of aftershocks, USAID’s absence is noticeable in the region. 

USAID Cuts Coincide With Devastation in Asia

Myanmar state media reported that, as of April 19, the earthquake killed more than 3,700 people and injured 5,100 in the country, with 114 residents still missing. Thai newspaper Khaosod reported that, as of April 29, 66 people had died, 28 people were missing and nine people were injured.

Refugees from the ongoing civil war in Myanmar have relied on humanitarian assistance and medical care in neighboring Thailand for decades. USAID programs in Thailand bolstered the assistance Thai hospitals could provide those in need. Before the earthquake in Myanmar occurred, the Border Consortium aid group reported that many Thai hospitals helping around 100,000 refugees from Myanmar had to close following cuts to USAID in late February.

On March 28, the region experienced “a level of devastation that has not been seen in over a century in Asia,” according to Marie Manrique, the acting head of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Myanmar. The same day, The U.S. State Department formally notified Congress that it was moving to dissolve USAID.

The Results of USAID Cuts

The earthquake’s epicenter was in Myanmar’s second-largest city, Mandalay; however, 600 miles away, in the Thai capital city of Bangkok, residents felt widespread shaking and saw significant damage to infrastructure, including a skyscraper that collapsed when it was under construction.

While USAID cuts have backtracked in recent weeks due to pushback from Americans and the country’s federal agencies, aid workers report that, with thousands of residents remaining homeless in Mandalay after the destruction, U.S. assistance is lacking.

“The United States only sent a paltry amount of assistance…it sent only three workers, which then, subsequently, were fired,” Francisco Bencosome, a former USAID worker, said. Some workers were notified of their termination while in the earthquake’s disaster zone.

The ongoing poverty crisis in Myanmar, escalating in recent years due to ongoing civil conflict, saw almost doubled rates from 24.8% in 2017 to 49.7% in 2023. In the beginning of 2025, around 19.9 million people, or about 35% of the country’s population, were in dire need of humanitarian assistance; this included 6.4 million children.

The destruction due to the earthquake in Myanmar has exacerbated existing pervasive poverty conditions, resulting in 4.3 million people lacking basic needs such as shelter, nutrition and clean water.

Solutions

After the reduction of USAID programs in Thailand and Myanmar, NGOs have stepped in to address the earthquake in Myanmar. Here are some examples of NGO efforts in Thailand and Myanmar:

  • The Myanmar Red Cross Society: The Myanmar Red Cross Society and its partners successfully delivered eight charter flights and six cargo shipments of aid into Myanmar within the first week of the earthquake’s aftermath, according to the organization. The IFRC is rapidly mobilizing, adapting and delivering critical aid to the hardest-hit areas. The Myanmar Red Cross Society initiated its Emergency Operations Centers after the earthquake. Additionally, it sent out volunteers to search for and rescue those the earthquake affected, while also sending out teams to connect hospitals and clinics with emergency blood donations.
  • UNICEF: UNICEF is on the ground in Myanmar, working with other aid organizations to meet children’s needs. According to UNICEF, the organization and its partners have delivered emergency water, sanitation and hygiene kits, medical kits and nutrition supplies; UNICEF is also delivering essential health and nutrition services through temporary emergency health facilities and mobile clinics.
  • Doctors Without Borders: Doctors Without Borders deployed medical, mental health, logistics and water and sanitation staff to areas that experienced the earthquake. The organization is working to provide support to hospitals with special focus on sanitation, water, infection control and waste management. It also installed a water filtration system and a water tank at the Mandalay General Hospital.
  • Save the Children: Save the Children has launched a “Children’s Emergency Fund” to support adolescents in Myanmar in need of shelter and other basic needs in the aftermath of the earthquake. Aid workers are responding to the urgent, lifesaving needs of children and their families by providing water, food and health care services.
  • United Nations Humanitarian Crisis Relief (UNHCR): The UNHCR has reported that its team is on the ground responding with other UN agencies by providing “medical care, shelter, safe water, hygiene kits and food,” despite dealing with extremely damaged infrastructure and a lack of telecommunications. As of April 23, UNHCR reported that the organization provided critical aid – including core relief items (CRIs) and emergency shelter materials – to 48,354 people who experienced earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. CRIs include mattresses, blankets, hygiene kits, solar lamps and cooking essentials kits. On April 15, the city of Yangon received more than 40,000 kg of supplies to help 16,000 people from UNHCR, and there was a promise of more supplies in the following weeks.

Looking Ahead

Though USAID downsizes have immobilized necessary American federal assistance in Myanmar and Thailand following the historic earthquake in Myanmar, other aid organizations are using donor funding to make effective strides in alleviating poverty conditions and the ongoing refugee crisis.

– Erin Hellhake

Erin is based in Old Bridge, NJ, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Local Solutions Drive Madagascar’s Poverty Solutions

Madagascar's poverty solutionsMadagascar, the world’s fifth-largest island, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and natural resources. Yet, the country faces persistent poverty, with 75% of its population living below the national poverty line as of 2022. Rural areas are particularly affected, with poverty rates reaching 79.9%. Political instability, limited infrastructure and changing weather patterns destabilize the region and exacerbate the situation.

Battling Hunger and Malnutrition

Since 2019, the southern regions of Madagascar have been grappling with severe droughts, leading to famine-like conditions. Approximately 1.3 million people are food insecure, with malnutrition rates among children under 5 doubling in recent years. In response, the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF have collaborated to deliver life-saving nutrition supplies, such as Plumpy’Sup, to malnourished children in remote areas. Innovative methods, including Unmanned Aircraft Systems, have been employed to reach isolated communities.  

Madagascar’s reliance on rain-fed agriculture makes it vulnerable to the harsh climate. Prolonged droughts have devastated crops, leading to food shortages and economic hardship. To combat this, Madagascar’s poverty solutions include programs promoting climate-smart agriculture. These initiatives teach farmers sustainable practices, such as using drought-resistant crops and mulching, to improve food security and protect the environment. 

International Support and Development Projects

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) committed $22.1 million to support Madagascar’s southern regions through projects like Vikina and Harea. These initiatives aim to build resilience, improve food security and promote sustainable farming practices. Additionally, USAID’s Mikajy project focuses on linking biodiversity conservation with sustainable livelihoods. By supporting community-based enterprises and introducing conservation farming, the project helps communities achieve economic growth while preserving natural resources.

In 2023, the World Bank approved a $250 million credit to expand access to social protection for extremely poor households across all 23 regions of Madagascar. The initiative aims to strengthen the national safety net system and improve household resilience to economic and climate-related shocks. In the same year, the World Bank committed an additional $400 million to the Digital and Energy Connectivity for Inclusion in Madagascar Project (DECIM). This program aims to double the country’s energy access from 33.7% to 67% and expand internet connectivity by reaching 3.4 million new users. The investment supports long-term development by promoting digital inclusion, clean energy and infrastructure growth.

Community-Driven Initiatives

Local communities are also taking action in Madagascar’s poverty solutions by preserving their lush forests. Reforestation projects, such as those by Eden Reforestation Projects, aim to restore mangroves and upland forests while providing both environmental benefits and employment opportunities.  In the Makay region, eco-tourism initiatives promote low-impact tourism, generating income for local communities while funding conservation efforts. Microfinance programs, like those supported by Money for Madagascar, empower individuals to start small businesses, fostering economic independence and community development. 

Looking Ahead

By focusing on sustainable development, climate resilience and economic empowerment, Madagascar continues to build a path toward resilience and improved well-being for its people.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing Homelessness in Comoros

Homelessness in ComorosThe Comoros is a developing country located off the coast of East Africa, consisting of three islands, including Grande Comore, Anjouan and Moheli. Poverty and homelessness have been a large issue for the country for over 10 years, but the country truly focused on reforming development after the 2019 cyclone and the COVID-19 pandemic, causing a growth in poverty rates. Here is more information about homelessness in Comoros. 

The Issue

Homelessness in Comoros tends to stem from a lack of opportunities, which results in an unequal distribution of consumption expenditures. Within the years 2004-2014, supplies and housing conditions saw improvements, with the percentage of people going through hardships dropping from 85% to 75%, but the number of people lacking access to supplies remained high. As educational and job developments began to increase, the Comoros’ homeless faced major setbacks due to a natural disaster and health crisis.

In April 2019, Tropical Cyclone Kenneth hit the Comoros, causing flood damage, contaminated water tanks, loss of power for days and damaged roads limiting travel access. The cyclone resulted in the loss of more than half of the Comoros’ main crop food source, affecting the food supply and livelihoods. The severe damage to homes and land resulted in an estimated 20,000 people experiencing displacement.

Despite the immediate response from supporting organizations, flooded roads and a loss of power supply caused difficulty in moving supplies. The capacity of the Comoros’ Government to respond to a crisis like this is limited, putting a strain on the country as a whole.

Cyclone Kenneth’s impact already affected the homeless, and the people faced further hardship with the arrival of COVID-19, which caused a restraint in job opportunities and increased health issues as the country does not have the services to respond to a national pandemic.

Developments 

Despite the increased hardships, the Comoros’ Government sought immediate support from “UN agencies, the Red Crescent, and local NGOs” to respond to Cyclone Kenneth’s damages. These organizations assisted with food security, shelter, health conditions and education. All schools and government facilities remained closed, so UNICEF provided children with alternative learning opportunities to prevent disruptions in their education. Individuals and families who experienced displacement received nutritional and health supplies along with shelters for protection.

By 2023, the economy had grown, which benefited homelessness in the Comoros, as those individuals and many more depend on agriculture. There was an increase in agricultural prices due to agreeable climate conditions, leading to a decline in inflation, which largely assisted the economy. The inflation percentage in the year 2022 sat at 12.4% and saw a significant decline to 9.2% by 2023.

Although COVID-19 and the cyclone slowed down economic recovery, projects including the El Maarouf hospital, the Galawa hotel and the repairs of roads are in the works. In 2023, an energy law was put in place that “promotes the production of electricity from renewable sources.” As the poverty rate remains at 38.2%, it will likely reduce to 36.2% by 2026 with an expanding and further recovered economy.

US Assistance

The U.S. may not have an embassy located in the Comoros, but the U.S. Ambassador in Madagascar is accredited to the Comoros. The U.S. and the Comoros have had an established diplomatic relationship since 1977, occurring only two years after the Comoros gained independence from France in 1975.

During the 2024 celebration of the long lasting, expanding relationship between the U.S. and the Comoros, the U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar announced USAID programming funds that will go towards “renewable energy, food security and workforce development.” The USAID program will receive $5 million along with $1 million to fund education and better the governments financial needs.

Looking Ahead

The country’s economy is expanding and putting every effort into recovering, which has provided them with critical improvements. Slowly but surely, the homelessness in Comoros is gaining the needed attention to live more safely and healthily.

– Sarina Francis

Sarina is based in Tallahassee, FL, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Nepal’s Poverty Reduction Through Local Solutions

Nepal's poverty reductionNepal, a landlocked Himalayan nation, has made significant strides in poverty reduction over recent decades; however, significant challenges persist, particularly in rural and underdeveloped regions. According to the Fourth Nepal Living Standards Survey (NLSS) 2022–23, the national poverty rate stands at 20.27%. Rural areas are disproportionately affected, with a poverty rate of 24.66%, compared to 18.34% in urban regions. Contributing factors include limited access to essential services such as education, health care and clean drinking water. Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue, with more than 19% of young people unemployed, a figure significantly higher than the national average. This has led to increased migration, both internally to urban centers and externally abroad, as youths seek better employment opportunities.

Government Initiatives

The Nepalese government has implemented several programs aimed at poverty alleviation. The 15th Periodic Plan (2019–2024), developed by the National Planning Commission, focuses on achieving sustainable development goals and transitioning Nepal to a middle-income country. Key objectives include economic diversification, infrastructure development and social inclusion. Another significant initiative is the Prime Minister Employment Program (PMEP), which seeks to provide short-term employment opportunities to unemployed individuals, particularly in rural areas. The program aims to enhance skills and increase income levels among marginalized populations.

International Aid and Partnerships

International organizations have played a crucial role in supporting Nepal’s poverty reduction efforts. USAID has been instrumental in sectors such as education, agriculture and health through financial aid. However, recent budget cuts have led to the suspension of several projects, raising concerns about the continuity of essential services.

The World Bank’s Rural Access Improvement and Decentralization Project has improved rural infrastructure, facilitating better access to markets and services. Similarly, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has supported climate resilience and local governance initiatives, including the implementation of Local Adaptation Plans of Action (LAPAs) that empower communities to address climate change impacts.

Community-Based Efforts

Grassroots organizations have been vital in addressing poverty at the local level. READ Nepal, part of the READ Global network, organizes Community Library and Resource Centers that offer educational resources, vocational training and women’s empowerment programs. These centers have reached millions in rural communities, fostering literacy and economic development while reducing income inequality. The Federation of Community Forestry Users, Nepal (FECOFUN) empowers local communities to manage forest resources sustainably. By providing employment opportunities and generating income from selling forest products, FECOFUN promotes environmental stewardship and economic development.

The Role of Remittances

Remittances from Nepalese working abroad account for a significant portion of the country’s GDP. In 2023, remittances totaled more than $11 billion, accounting for more than 25% of the GDP. These funds have been instrumental in reducing poverty, improving household incomes and contributing to economic stability.

Moving Forward

Nepal’s comprehensive approach to poverty reduction—combining government policies, international aid and community initiatives—demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in addressing economic challenges. Continued support and investment in these areas are essential for sustaining progress and achieving long-term development goals.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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USAID cuts deprioritizes Women’s Health in Afghanistan

Women’s Health in Afghanistan The Trump Administration’s USAID cuts have affected many in Afghanistan, severely fracturing their already vulnerable health system. The U.S. previously provided more than 40% of foreign aid to Afghanistan, one of the poorest nations in the world, with a population of roughly 40 million. The World Health Organization (WHO) claims that more than 200 clinics have been closed, deprioritizing women’s health in Afghanistan.

Clinics Closing

Midwives in Afghanistan claim that mother and infant deaths have increased since the health clinics in many remote villages have been permanently closed. Women have not been able to reach the leading hospitals in time to receive proper care from a midwife. Many European nations have also revoked their foreign aid, leaving Afghanistan in a grueling position. The WHO believes 200 more facilities will be permanently closed by June 2025, NPR reports. These foreign aid cuts affect the most vulnerable patients in this developing nation: women, children and low-income populations. There is no direct data on complications and deaths due to the 206 clinics that closed as of March 2025. Midwives from village to village are spreading awareness to each other about pregnancy and childbirth deaths. USAID cuts are deeply deprioritizing women’s health in Afghanistan.

Midwives Testimony

In the western provinces of Herat, a midwife, Faezeh, experienced her clinic closing due to aid cuts. Previously, the clinic had been active at all hours. Many health clinics in Afghanistan not only assist with maternal and newborn care but also provide for the most vulnerable patients, including malnourished children and the elderly, NPR reports. The clinics offer vaccination and nutrition. The clinic in Herat was not reopened despite the older generation’s efforts to negotiate with the public health officer. There is no donor funding available to establish a reopening. Faezeh believes that if the clinic had not closed, the women who recently experienced maternal and infant death would have been able to make it, according to NPR. Clinics that remain open are distantly spaced out, making it virtually inaccessible for Afghans to receive care.

Karima, a maternal care doctor at a regional hospital in Afghanistan, believes that maternal and infant death rates are increasing due to the cuts in prenatal and postpartum services, previously provided by foreign NGOs. The NGO cuts only further deprioritizes women’s health in Afghanistan. A woman in a rural area of Herat lost her baby due to a condition known as meconium aspiration syndrome. A condition in which the baby has been in the womb for too long. This condition only occurs in 5% to 10% of births, NPR reports. It is treatable, but not having professional care in her community prevented this mother from having a life with her child. Women already have strict travel regulations imposed on them by the Taliban. The closing of the clinics is imposing a higher risk on women who do seek to travel to a further village to receive maternal care.

Women for Afghan Women

Foreign aid cuts have affected many nations in the developing world. Women for Afghan Women is partnering with organizations in Afghanistan to expand its help. Like many organizations trying to establish aid and funding for Afghanistan, they have been limited in their pursuits due to government control of the nation. Afghan midwives are the hope for maternal care. Private funding is being sought, but grassroots support is limited. International financing is persistently in conversation in U.S. government relations settings. Support from congressional leaders for the International Affairs budget could bring resolution for the deprioritization of women’s health in Afghanistan and developing nations across the world.

– Mackenzie Inman

Mackenzie is based in Washington DC, US and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Stepping Up as Global Funding Declines: NGOs Replacing U.S. Aid

NGOs Replacing U.S. AidSince January 2025, significant shifts in U.S. foreign aid policy have left a substantial void in global development funding. The Trump administration’s decision to freeze the USAID funding has disrupted health and humanitarian programs worldwide and damaged its credibility in previous commitments to public health and humanitarian efforts. This abrupt halt has suspended vital initiatives, forcing many organizations to shut down projects, lay off staff and withdraw from communities—further intensifying the challenges that NGOs replacing U.S. aid in affected regions face

The Immediate Impact of Aid Cuts

The immediate impact of USAID cuts has been severe and far-reaching, affecting millions of people worldwide. The U.S. has historically been a driving force in international development assistance, but the recent cuts have led to the collapse of USAID-backed programs, creating a funding void that private donors struggle to fill.

Global health programs like the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which works to prevent and treat infectious diseases, and the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) are among the hardest hit. With fewer resources, NGOs replacing U.S. aid face an uphill battle in controlling outbreaks, leaving the most vulnerable populations at higher risk.

To put the impact into numbers, “about 80% of the 1,460 community kitchens across Sudan shut down when USAID paused all funding,” according to Hajooj Kuka, spokesperson for the Emergency Response Rooms (ERRs) in Khartoum state, as reported by Al Jazeera, an independent news channel in the Arab world.

In contrast, advocacy groups continue to push forward for restored funding, emphasizing that foreign aid is not just a moral duty but a strategic investment in global stability.

NGOs’ Strategic Responses and Challenges

As NGOs replacing U.S. aid navigate these challenges, they have intensified efforts to influence policy changes and secure alternative resources. One of their key strategies is diversification, with public-private partnerships emerging as a major source of funding. This advocacy is essential to keeping global development priorities on the international agenda.

To cope with funding shortfalls, many NGOs are implementing temporary measures such as tapping into their financial reserves and unrestricted funds to sustain essential operations. They are also renegotiating agreements with other donors and seeking waivers to maintain critical services. Additionally, some staff members are working voluntarily to keep essential programs running. While these efforts demonstrate the dedication of those in the sector, they also underscore the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions.

The Future of NGOs in a Changing Aid Scene

With persistent global challenges such as changing weather patterns, rising inequality and ongoing conflicts, the need for resilience and adaptability among NGOs replacing U.S. aid is more critical than ever. These organizations are actively seeking diverse funding alternatives, forging strategic partnerships and embracing technology to sustain their operations. The ability of NGOs to replace U.S. aid to navigate these changes could be crucial in shaping the future of international aid and development.

– Rhasna Albuquerque

Rhasna is based in Fortaleza, Brazil and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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USAID Programs in Ecuador

USAID Programs in EcuadorEcuador is a small, diverse country in South America, bordering Colombia to the north, Peru to the south and east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Despite its size, it ranks among the most biologically diverse countries in the world, with the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, coastal plains and the Galápagos Islands shaping its rich ecosystems. While the country boasts beautiful cities and landscapes, many Ecuadorians face economic instability, limited job opportunities and displaced populations.

Ecuador’s rising violence, driven by drug cartels and organized crime, destabilizes the economy, deters investment and disrupts businesses. This worsens poverty by reducing job opportunities, increasing insecurity and straining public resources for civilians.

To address these issues, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has implemented key programs that aim to strengthen Ecuador’s development. From environmental conservation to economic growth and democratic governance, USAID programs in Ecuador have played a crucial role in the country’s stability and sustainability. Here are seven key initiatives shaping USAID’s efforts in Ecuador.

Strengthening Development and Resilience

Since 1961, USAID has worked with Ecuador to improve the quality of life. Programs have promoted sustainable economic growth, strengthened governance and protected the environment. USAID programs in Ecuador plays a crucial role in advancing the country’s development through key initiatives:

  1. Driving Economic Growth: Ecuador’s economy is vulnerable to shocks and macroeconomic instability due to its high reliance on the export of primary goods. More than 84% of “Ecuador’s farmers are small producers” with few opportunities to grow more crops. USAID has invested in the EDGE fund, which sought to narrow the gap between small-scale farmers and the markets that support them. These efforts support small businesses, increase employment opportunities and strengthen Ecuador’s economic foundation. Job growth reduces poverty, strengthens economic stability and improves quality of life.
  2. Advancing Environmental Conservation: Ecuador’s biodiversity remains one of its most valuable assets. It is home to many species and a variety of ecosystems. Between 2009 and 2014, USAID programs in Ecuador helped conserve 2.7 million hectares of biodiverse land in protected areas and Indigenous territories. This allowed the indigenous Cofán community to strengthen their culture, identity and ancestral knowledge. By funding sustainable land management practices and conservation programs, USAID helps Ecuador preserve its forests, rivers and wildlife for future generations.
  3. Strengthening Democratic Governance: Indigenous peoples in Ecuador possess a rich culture and a deep connection to their ancestral lands. However, they continue to face substantial challenges related to poverty, environmental threats and the preservation of their rights and heritage. An article by the International Fund for Agricultural Development stated, “Income inequality remains a problem, with almost half the rural population living in poverty compared to a third of people nationwide. The rates of extreme poverty in rural areas are double that of the total population.” USAID’s Amazon Indigenous Rights and Resources program strengthened Indigenous governance in Ecuador by promoting land rights, transparency and citizen participation. It improved resilience to climate change and empowered communities to work with government institutions on environmental and social challenges.
  4. Expanding Education and Workforce Development: Through programs like the Farmer-to-Farmer initiative, USAID connects experts with Ecuadorian farmers and business owners to share knowledge and improve agricultural practices. This will equip farmers with modern techniques to boost crop productivity, sustainability and economic resilience. It also strengthens the agricultural sector’s contribution to national economic growth.
  5. Improving Public Health Services: Ecuador has a small budget that is dedicated to their health system. As a result, the healthcare sector in the country experiences low numbers of medical personnel. Furthermore, there is a shortage of medicine, and outdated or lacking healthcare equipment. USAID plays a critical role in strengthening Ecuador’s health care system. Initiatives such as the Amazon Malaria Initiative focus on controlling and preventing malaria in Ecuador and neighboring countries. By improving disease prevention and health care infrastructure, USAID helps Ecuadorians, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, access better medical services.
  6. Delivering Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief: Ecuador faces frequent natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods and landslides. The Ecuador Building Resilience Program equips communities with technical assistance and training in seismic-resistant construction. By improving infrastructure, USAID helps Ecuadorians build safer homes and withstand natural disasters.
  7. Supporting Migrants and Displaced Populations: Ecuador has become a key destination for migrants and displaced populations seeking economic opportunities. USAID’s RADAR project strengthens solid waste management systems, creates business opportunities and supports communities. Many Venezuelan migrants are significantly involved in the informal recycling sector. The RECIPRI association in Priorato, Ecuador, was created by Venezuelan migrants to organize their recycling activities. This provides training and promotes entrepreneurship, while also enhancing social and economic inclusion.

USAID’s Lasting Impact in Ecuador

USAID programs in Ecuador are vital. They address challenges by improving governance, expanding job growth and supporting vulnerable communities. Programs like Farmer-to-Farmer boost agricultural productivity, while RADAR helps integrate migrants into the economy. By improving resilience and stability, USAID programs in Ecuador play a key role in improving livelihoods and establishing long-term stability in Ecuador.

– Giovanni Garcia

Giovanni is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons