On January 29, 2025, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) laid off nearly 400 contract employees as a result of a stop-work order issued by the Trump Administration affecting foreign assistance programs. This significant reduction impacts contractors based in the U.S., part of a larger workforce of approximately 10,000.
- USAID laid off nearly 400 contractors.
- Layoffs linked to Trump Administration's policies.
- Employees express fear and uncertainty about future.
- Entire departments affected, including health offices.
- Executive order paused foreign aid for review.
The layoffs at USAID come amid a major shift in U.S. foreign aid policy under President Trump. Affected employees reported that all departments were impacted, including those working on critical health issues such as HIV/AIDS and infectious diseases. An official source indicated that these layoffs are part of an effort to realign agency operations with presidential priorities.
Key details include:
- Total number of layoffs: 390
- Type of employment affected: Contract workers
- Agency’s total workforce: Approximately 10,000
The recent changes follow an executive order from President Trump issued on Inauguration Day, which mandated a pause on almost all foreign aid for a period of 90 days to reassess its alignment with American interests. The State Department subsequently implemented a stop-work order for both future and ongoing projects until further evaluation could be completed.
The recent layoffs at USAID highlight significant changes in U.S. government operations concerning international aid and development efforts. As the agency undergoes this transition, many former employees express concern over the long-term implications for global humanitarian initiatives.
