A sharp reduction in funding for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) could lead to more than 14 million additional deaths by 2030, including 4.5 million deaths among children under the age of 5, and negate the progress made in combating diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and respiratory infections, according to a study published in the journal Lancet.
Researchers used mortality data from 133 countries and territories to assess the impact of all USAID funding on overall mortality from 2001 to 2021. They then assessed mortality by age, gender, and cause groups, using the data obtained to predict the impact of funding cuts from this year to 2030.
The study found that over the past two decades, programs funded by USAID have prevented more than 91 million deaths worldwide, including 30 million deaths among children.
«This structural funding cut could be one of the most significant blows to global health in recent decades. It could lead to millions of preventable deaths, especially among the most vulnerable populations, and reverse progress in health and socio-economic development», — said David Razella, co-author of the article in Lancet.
As Reuters writes, Washington is the world's largest donor of humanitarian aid, accounting for at least 38% of all contributions recorded by the United Nations. According to government data, last year it allocated $61 billion for foreign aid, just over half of which was provided through USAID.
The administration of President Donald Trump has reduced funding for USAID and its aid programs worldwide since taking office in January. Experts and human rights advocates have issued warnings regarding the cuts. According to the study, USAID funding has played a crucial role in improving global health, primarily in low- and middle-income countries, especially in African countries.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in March that after a six-week review, more than 80% of all USAID programs were canceled. The Trump administration accused USAID of misusing taxpayer funds and financing overseas programs that do not serve U.S. interests.