The recent decision to halt billions of dollars in funding announced by the US administration on January 24 has impacted numerous US foreign aid programs, pending a 90-day review. Pio Smith from the UN’s sexual reproductive health agency, UNFPA, provided this update during a briefing with journalists in Geneva.
‘Unwavering commitment’ to serve people in need
UN Secretary-General António Guterres issued a letter to all UN staff in New York responding to the executive order from US President Donald Trump. Guterres emphasized the need to continue critical development and humanitarian activities despite the funding pause. The UN organization will actively work to assess and mitigate the impact of this order.
Mr. Guterres stressed the importance of the United Nations’ work during this challenging time and reiterated the commitment to serving those in need globally.
Deadly consequences
As a result of the executive order, UNFPA has halted services funded by US grants that are vital for women and girls in crisis situations, particularly in South Asia. The Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific warned that the lack of US support could lead to additional maternal deaths and unintended pregnancies in Afghanistan.
UNFPA is seeking clarity from the administration about why their programs are impacted and hopes for exemptions on humanitarian grounds.
Meanwhile, the UN aid coordination agency OCHA confirmed that there have been no layoffs or closures in response to the executive orders. The agency’s country offices are in close communication with local US embassies to better understand the situation.
The US Government’s significant funding of global humanitarian appeals last year highlights the critical role played by the US in providing support during crises.
Further developments include the placement of USAID under the authority of the Secretary of State by the new US administration, resulting in staff being locked out of their offices. Public name-calling and accusations of criminal activity have been raised, impacting the relationship between aid agencies.
Retreat from Human Rights Council
Additionally, the potential withdrawal of the US from the UN Human Rights Council has generated concerns. The US has been an observer state since the beginning of this year, and withdrawing from the council as an observer state is a complex process.
Preventable problems
The immediate impact of the funding pause on vulnerable individuals in impoverished regions is severe. Women facing childbirth in unsanitary conditions, obstetric complications, preventable newborn deaths, and survivors of gender-based violence are left without critical support services.
UNFPA appeals to the US Government to continue leading in development efforts and collaborating with UN agencies to alleviate the suffering of affected women and families.
Afghanistan emergency
UNFPA’s work in Afghanistan is crucial, with millions expected to lose access to health and protection services. The suspension of mobile health teams, family health houses, and counseling centers will lead to devastating consequences.
In Pakistan and Bangladesh, millions of people, including refugees, face losing access to essential health services due to the funding crisis.
UNFPA highlights the real-life impact of these decisions on the most vulnerable populations, emphasizing the urgent need for continued support.
