A Lifeline Cut for Millions in Need: VOICE reaction on the U.S. Foreign Aid Suspension
The recent decision to halt new U.S. foreign aid disbursements for a 90-day review period and the “stop work” orders on existing foreign assistance is a devastating blow to crisis-affected populations worldwide. Providing more than 42% of global humanitarian funding (FTS, UNOCHA) , the U.S. plays a pivotal role in sustaining life-saving programs in regions hit by conflict and natural disasters.
For the 305 million people who will require urgent humanitarian assistance and protection in 2025 (Global Humanitarian Overview), this decision means the interruption of critical services, such as protection, healthcare, clean water, and education. In regions like Southern and Eastern Africa, home to 85 million people affected by crisis, and the Middle East and North Africa, where 59 million require assistance, the consequences will be catastrophic. Communities living in vulnerable conditions, already reeling from the devastating effects of conflict and climate change, are now at greater risk of hunger, disease, and displacement.
Local, national and international NGOs, the backbone of humanitarian response, now face severe operational disruptions, forcing them to shut down projects, lay off staff, and withdraw from communities where trust and infrastructure have taken years to build. Local and national NGOs, often the most affected by funding shortfalls, are at risk of collapse, leaving a dangerous void.
We stand in solidarity with crisis affected communities and the frontline responders supporting them.
We call on the global humanitarian community to come together during this critical time to use all their political influence to revert this trend and fill the gaps left by this suspension, ensuring that the most vulnerable are not abandoned.
VOICE remains committed to supporting the humanitarian principles that are fundamental for efficient and effective humanitarian response. We remain united to work tirelessly towards protecting the lives and dignity of people and communities affected by crisis.
