The shutdown of USAID threatens global stability

More and more evidence suggests that the rumors are true. That USAID is to be shut down. That the world’s single largest donor, responsible for 42 percent of all humanitarian aid registered by the UN in 2024, will disappear.
This will have devastating consequences for people in vulnerable situations across the globe. We will see a domino effect that exacerbates poverty, conflicts, and humanitarian crises.
Just in 2023, the previous administration spent 68 billion dollars on aid—one-quarter of which went to Ukraine. Pausing or withdrawing these funds represents a drastic shift in the global balance of power.
Describing aid as “evil” and an agency that has worked for development for over 60 years as “criminal” is a dangerous rhetoric. Such rhetoric undermines global cooperation for a more just world and fuels the notion that nations should only look after their own interests. We know that solidarity and cooperation are crucial for stability. When these fundamental pillars are attacked by short-term political interests, it is the most vulnerable who suffer the most.
The consequences of an American withdrawal extend far beyond the borders of the United States. When a global leader makes a drastic shift in direction, others follow. Governments already hesitant about their international commitments may use this as an excuse to reduce or completely withdraw their aid. We are already seeing safety nets weakening, humanitarian organizations struggling to keep their operations alive, and people fleeing war and oppression being left without help.
The EU must now increase its support to compensate for the loss of USAID’s aid. It is crucial that the EU takes responsibility and shows leadership at a time when global solidarity is more important than ever. By increasing its aid, the EU can help stabilize the regions most affected by the U.S. withdrawal.
Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation, Benjamin Dousa, must also clearly denounce the unjust accusations against USAID. Calling an organization that has worked for global development for over 60 years “criminal” is not only false—it also undermines trust in international aid and cooperation. It is important to stand up for the values that USAID represents and to continue fighting for a fairer and more stable world.
IM continues to build resilience, stand up for solidarity, and fight for a world where no one is left behind.
And at IM, we know this: showing humanity will never go out of style.
– Anders Berg, Acting Secretary General, IM
In the picture, a survivor of Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, can be seen. With the help of aid funds, those affected were able to rebuild their lives after the disaster. The ongoing climate crisis means that we will see similar scenarios many times in the future. And then, more aid will be needed. Not less. Photo: Erik Törner
By: Malin Kihlström