This week, the Trump Administration terminated thousands of international assistance programs before the end of its planned 90-day review period. The administration announced plans to eliminate more than 90 percent of the U.S. Agency for International Development’s foreign aid contracts and $60 billion in overall U.S. foreign assistance.  

“Less than 1 percent of the federal budget is allocated to U.S. foreign assistance, yet these funds have a significant impact on global stability and advancing American interests,” said Giulia McPherson, Executive Director. “Placing America first means we must also recognize that foreign aid is not just an act of charity but a strategic investment in our own security and prosperity.” 

Terminated programs include life-saving education initiatives that serve vulnerable populations around the world and help build the next generation of American partners and allies. Many of these programs also promote fundamental literacy and numeracy skills, as legally required by the READ Act, which was reauthorized by Congress this past December. 

“We urge the administration to reverse these terminations as quickly as possible to allow for a transparent and strategic review process,” said McPherson. “We also ask Congress to assert its funding and oversight role in ensuring that appropriated funds are being spent as intended.”