The US Administration’s sudden decision to close USAID-funded programmes and offices worldwide has been strongly condemned by Caritas Internationalis. The confederation of 162 Catholic national relief, development, and social service organisations calls the move “reckless” and “chaotic,” fearing it will jeopardise essential services for hundreds of millions of people.
For over six decades, USAID has been a vital partner to Caritas, providing lifesaving assistance, alleviating hunger, delivering healthcare and education, and addressing poverty. The US aid freeze is expected to have catastrophic consequences worldwide, particularly for the poorest communities. With USAID accounting for approximately 40% of global aid budget, the disruption will have far-reaching effects on direct recipients, secondary beneficiaries, UN agencies, and multilateral organisations.
Caritas Internationalis is taking proactive steps to address the issue, including advocacy efforts, information gathering, and coordination with partners. The organisation urges governments, international agencies, and stakeholders to speak out against the freeze and urge the US Administration to reverse its decision. Alistair Dutton, Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis, warns that stopping USAID will “kill millions of people” and condemn hundreds of millions more to lives of dehumanising poverty.
The move has sparked international concern, with many calling for a constructive dialogue between the US Administration and humanitarian organisations.
Source: https://www.caritas.org/2025/02/closure-of-usaid-foreign-aid-will-kill-millions