The Global Campaign for Education-US (GCE-US) applauds efforts by Congress to protect foreign aid including the invaluable work of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and encourages the Administration to work closely with Congress as it takes steps to assess U.S. foreign assistance efforts. 

“Congress plays an essential role in authorizing and appropriating U.S. Government resources and providing the necessary oversight to ensure those funds are spent effectively and efficiently,” said Giulia McPherson, Executive Director. “The Administration must work closely with Congress to address any concerns and consult with them as partners on behalf of the American people.” 

Abruptly halting critical foreign assistance programs has already begun to have a detrimental effect on both global stability and U.S. interests. Education programs, including those that support early childhood development and inclusive education, address the needs of the whole child and ensure lifesaving support. When these critical programs pause, even for a short time, it alters lives for many years to come, making it harder for children to return to school, diminishing public health, and undermining economic growth and political stability. By ending these investments, the U.S. will see its influence and impact diminish, leaving room for other foreign influences to take hold.   

“As highlighted in recent House and Senate letters, not only are attempts to dismantle USAID unprecedented and deeply concerning, but they undermine American credibility and jeopardize lives around the world,” said McPherson. “We urge lawmakers to continue their steadfast bipartisan support for U.S. foreign assistance and to resist any efforts to diminish the role of USAID or any other entity implementing these critical programs.”