The global aid landscape changed sharply in 2025 after a US order on 20 January to suspend almost all foreign aid contracts for 90 days pending a review. The suspension caused mass layoffs, an immediate halt to US-funded services and ultimately the closure of the US Agency for International Development (USAID); the US also withdrew from the World Health Organization.
Several other donors made cuts. The UK reduced overseas aid to prioritise defence, and France, Germany and the Netherlands also made significant reductions. Analysts said the combined effect left many low- and middle-income countries highly vulnerable, with serious impacts on health systems and humanitarian assistance.
Field reports described stopped projects in northern Idlib and around 200 humanitarian organisations pausing work. In Africa patients faced HIV drug stock-outs, community programmes in Uganda neared collapse, and malaria control operations and research were disrupted. Philanthropy and plans for greater self-reliance emerged as part of the response.
Difficult words
- suspend — Temporarily stop an activity or service.
- layoff — The dismissal of workers from their jobs.layoffs
- withdraw — To remove or take back support or participation.withdrew
- vulnerable — Open to harm or easily affected by problems.
- humanitarian — Related to help for people in crisis.
- philanthropy — Private giving of money or help to others.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could local health services respond if foreign funding is suddenly cut? Give two short ideas.
- Do you think philanthropy can replace government aid? Why or why not?
- What effects might paused projects and organisation closures have on small communities?
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