Reflections on the recent International Aid Cuts

“Humanitarian aid saves lives. If you live in a democracy, use your voice. Speak up, lobby your government and resist the thinking that underpins these cuts.”

On 3rd April 2025, HOPE UK hosted a forum to share perspectives on the recent cuts in international aid.  

Rosanna Armstrong, HOPE UK Chair of Trustees, provided an introduction outlining the recent severe cuts that were announced: in January: 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts cut and $60bn in US assistance stopped; and a month later, UK announced cut from 0.5% of GNI to 0.3%.  In addition, aid cuts have been taking place by many European countries over recent years (eg. EU, Netherlands, France, Germany, Sweden, Belgium).  Rosanna shared, “We know that aid saves lives.  These cuts will have worldwide repercussions.”

-   Clarissa Poulson - HOPE UK trustee and director of a London-based development consultancy, outlined the history and architecture of USAID, UK Aid and recent aid cuts. USAID services were halted without warning, leaving staff stranded and operations in disarray. UK Aid saw reduced scope, early funding ends, and no new project starts. Globally, the cuts impact health, livelihoods, climate resilience, migration, and security. There's also a loss of soft power, influence, and intelligence access, raising the question: who fills the gap? Competition for limited resources will increase among NGOs and governments. The pressing issue for the UK: how best to use the funds that remain?

-   Cliff Dick – President of HOPE USA, highlighted that the US shift of aid being subsumed into foreign departments isn’t new—Canada and the UK have done the same. This marks a long-term move away from funding development, conflict resolution, equality, and democracy work. Future US aid will likely focus narrowly on disaster relief and emergencies. Development funding will increasingly rely on individuals, small charities and foundations. The scale of disruption is vast, with global implications. Given the size of US aid, these cuts will have growing direct and indirect impacts worldwide.

-   Tibebu Bekele – HOPE Africa Director, warned that we're witnessing not just aid cuts, but a dismantling of international relations. The post-WWII idea of global interconnection is eroding, and is being replaced by a self-focused world order where weaker nations are left behind. This mindset drives the foreign aid reductions, including USAID’s sudden and total freeze—impacting countless programs without warning. As the largest donor, the ripple effects are vast. A hopeful outcome may be more homegrown, sustainable, self-sufficient systems in long-term aid-receiving countries. Tibebu urged individuals to give more, as reliance on government aid is no longer viable. His call: “Humanitarian aid saves lives. If you live in a democracy, use your voice. Speak up, lobby your government, and resist the thinking that underpins these cuts.”

If you would like to write to your MP, here is a template you are welcome to use.  Similarly, if you would like to consider increasing your charitable giving to development charities, including HOPE, one-off gifts and/or to start or increase your monthly donation, would be welcome. Donations to HOPE can be made here.