Dire Consequences: USAID's Potential Dismantling and Its Global Impact
Deep funding cuts and possible dismantling of USAID threaten global health, potentially causing over 14 million extra deaths by 2030. The Trump administration's cuts to the agency, despite its significant role in improving health in low-income countries, could lead to severe humanitarian consequences.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) faces funding cuts so drastic, they could predicate over 14 million additional deaths globally by the year 2030. This alarming prediction was detailed in recent research published by The Lancet medical journal.
Since his inauguration, President Donald Trump's administration has pursued a contentious policy of reducing USAID's budget, claiming it aims to curtail wasteful government spending. Yet, human rights advocates warn these austerity measures jeopardize essential aid, predominantly vital in low-income countries, notably across Africa.
The study highlights USAID's historical success, attributing the prevention of over 91 million deaths in the past 20 years to its programs. In 2025, the U.S. government led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, significantly slashed USAID's program by 80%, a move projected to trigger a humanitarian crisis unless reconsidered.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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