February 4, 2025 — New York, NY
USAID has been a critical tool for advancing American interests and values overseas. Through its support of international development and humanitarian aid, USAID has assisted numerous countries with disaster response and recovery, reducing poverty, helping people emerge from humanitarian crises, and strengthening democratic governance.
While a review of the program's investments to ensure they are in line with current policy objectives is an appropriate undertaking for a new administration, we urge Secretary Rubio to consider the cumulative effects of these global investments as he examines specific line items under review. It is crucial that the U.S. continue to heavily engage in the advancement of American ideals abroad.
The absorption of USAID into the State Department, and the pausing of USAID grants and other foreign assistance programs, will undoubtedly be seen by some partners in the international community as an abdication of U.S. leadership, which is contrary to American national interests. The pause of U.S. investment in global development opens the doors for American adversaries, including China, to fill the void. U.S. global leadership remains the best protection of our values and interests – for Americans and our allies, and for the Jewish people.
Further, while we welcome continued support for Israel – including both military assistance and economic cooperation programs – we must be mindful of what harmful impact decreased support for other nations throughout the Middle East could have on regional stability.
AJC is the global advocacy organization for the Jewish people. With headquarters in New York, 25 regional offices across the United States, 15 overseas posts, as well as partnerships with 38 Jewish community organizations worldwide, AJC’s mission is to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and Israel and to advance human rights and democratic values in the United States and around the world. For more, please visit www.ajc.org.
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