In this episode of DevelopmentAid Dialogues, host Hisham Allam delves into the consequences of the United States’ recent aid cuts, including their catastrophic impact on the global aid sector and vulnerable people. These decisions, mostly influenced by the Trump administration’s foreign aid policy, have resulted in far-reaching changes, such as funding freezes, program suspensions, and withdrawal from major global projects such as the World Health Organization (WHO).
Download the transcript of this episode.
Director of the Euro-Gulf Information Center Matthew Robinson, a seasoned specialist in development, humanitarian advocacy, and foreign policy, joined the conversation. Robinson’s impressive record includes serving as a Brussels and Strasbourg advisor on international trade, foreign affairs, and humanitarian issues. His background includes work with significant international organizations, including the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, where he also contributed to strategies for global development.
The discussion began with an overview of the United States aid cuts, including a 90-day suspension of all foreign assistance programs pending reviews. According to Robinson, this is “a pivotal moment that redefines the role of the United States in global development.” He emphasized the magnitude of the cuts, which will have an immediate impact on initiatives promoting disaster relief, education, health, and anti-corruption.
Robinson emphasized that these decisions have a human cost, particularly in conflict zones such as Syria and Sub-Saharan Africa. He stated that when critical aid initiatives are halted, millions of people lose access to clean water, healthcare, and education, as well as financial support.
See also: Kenya’s 2024 humanitarian aid landscape: Impact of US 90-day aid suspension
There was also discussion about how the United States’ decision to withdraw from the WHO would affect global health. The organization’s ability to respond to medical emergencies and pandemics is jeopardized due to the significant funding shortfall caused by this decision, Robinson stated.
“The withdrawal didn’t just undermine global health systems—it weakened the international community’s ability to work together during crises,” he said.
The effect on refugee and migration programs was another area of interest. Resettlement efforts have been hampered by the funding freeze, leaving thousands of families in a precarious situation.
“Refugees are being forced to wait indefinitely for safety and stability,” Robinson stated. “This fuels instability not only in host countries but also globally.”
Robinson promoted creative solutions in the face of these obstacles, asking NGOs to adjust by emphasizing localization and forming alliances with impacted communities.
“Empowering local actors and leveraging their expertise is key to creating sustainable solutions,” he stated.
Another viable way to close funding gaps was to work with the private sector.
“The private sector has a transformative role to play,” Robinson stated. “But it requires partnerships rooted in shared values and long-term commitments to create meaningful impact.”
See also: Supporting US organizations: up to 90 days of free access to tenders and grants
Robinson advocated for a renewed sense of international solidarity in addition to financial solutions.
“We cannot allow compassion to become a casualty of shifting political agendas,” he said.” Civil society, both in the Global North and South, must stand together to advocate for sustainable, long-term solutions.”
Listen to our latest podcast to gain expert insights into the far-reaching consequences of U.S. aid cuts. Discover how these policy shifts impact global health, refugee resettlement, and humanitarian programs, and explore innovative strategies for sustaining aid efforts in an era of uncertainty.
