InterAction Statement on Announcements of USAID Staffing Reductions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – InterAction, the leading alliance of international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and partners in the United States, issued the following statement in response to recent staffing reductions impacting USAID.

“The termination of 1,600 USAID staff and placement of nearly all direct hires on leave makes the 90-day review of foreign assistance impossible. These experts are urgently needed to support the humanitarian waiver process and resume funding, all of which remains frozen.

“The dedicated professionals of USAID deserve far better. USAID staff work steadfastly across Republican and Democratic administrations with bipartisan support from Congress to save and improve lives around the world. They ensure programs are accountable and show impact, which contributes to efforts to make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

“Of course, new leadership brings new priorities, and all institutions can be improved to meet a changing world. However, these public servants don’t deserve to be maligned, called criminals, and dismissed without due process.

“American foreign assistance primarily goes to provide emergency food, water, and medicine to people escaping conflict and natural disasters. It also supports farmers to feed their communities, education for young girls, curbing viruses like Ebola, and trainings to promote governance and economic growth. This work demonstrates the best of American values. It also is in America’s interests.

“The InterAction community stands with our USAID colleagues. USAID staff serve with honor and distinction as a vital part of America’s global leadership.”

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InterAction unites and amplifies the voices of America’s leading humanitarian and development organizations committed to creating a safer, more prosperous world. Its members deliver lifesaving aid, protect vulnerable families, and advance human dignity around the globe.

For media inquiries, please contact Mitch McQuate at mmcquate@interaction.org or (202) 403-7253.