Statement on the Trump Administration’s Plan to Abolish USAID

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 the Trump administration’s plans to abolish the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“On Friday, the Trump administration notified Congress of their intent to formally ‘abolish USAID as an independent establishment.’ They also notified Congress of their ‘intent to undertake a reorganization that would involve realigning certain USAID functions to the [State] Department by July 1, 2025.’

“InterAction urges Congress to ensure the administration does not take further unilateral action to abolish USAID. Congressional action and agreement are required to legally abolish the agency as it was created by Congress.

“We recognize and have supported the need for foreign aid reform. As Congress contemplates the congressional notification, several critical matters require thorough consideration. The following points warrant attention to ensure effective and sustainable policy changes:

• “Independence is needed for delivering effective humanitarian assistance where needs drive life-saving action and demonstrate America’s values. When foreign aid becomes politically motivated, it often fails to achieve its intended outcomes and save lives.
• “Diffusing humanitarian and development programs and operations across the United States government means foreign assistance will be less coordinated and coherent. This will slow results, add inefficiencies, create duplication, and dilute impact.
• “Technical expertise and program management is crucial for the design and oversight of assistance programs. Success depends on this expertise for lasting results, but much of this expertise—currently housed at USAID—risks being lost.

“We know already that the administration’s actions regarding USAID are having real world costs. Reducing harm and restoring confidence in the U.S. as a reliable partner is central to achieving impactful results in future foreign assistance.

“The U.S. government’s response to the Myanmar earthquake this past weekend was muted, while other countries have rushed to assist people across the region. Many NGOs operating in the region are having difficulty funding life-saving actions due to issues and confusion brought on by the foreign aid review—funding terminated, payments not received, or stocks depleted.

“We urge the administration to prioritize and safeguard rapid response capabilities, like what is currently needed in Myanmar, while ensuring U.S. humanitarian and development assistance maintains technical leadership and expertise for maximum effectiveness. America must uphold its global leadership and continue to reach the people most in need.”

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