For Immediate Release
February 3, 2025
Contact: Communications Director Nikki Gamer | Cell #: (978) 884-0003 | gamer@afsa.org

Washington, D.C. – The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) strongly objects to the administration’s decision to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This will undermine U.S. national security, may subvert Congressional authority, and demonstrates a lack of respect for the dedication of the development professionals who serve America’s interests abroad.

Created by Congress in 1961, USAID is a vital instrument of U.S. foreign policy. USAID promotes U.S. national security through development and humanitarian programming at a fraction of the cost of military engagement. The abrupt placement of dozens of Foreign Service Officers on administrative leave without notice and proper justification, combined with fear and confusion within the agency, signals a dangerous shift toward reducing a workforce indiscriminately -- without considering the harm to U.S. interests and established agency procedures.

As the non-partisan labor union and professional association of the U.S. Foreign Service, AFSA represents nearly 1,800 USAID Foreign Service Officers whose expertise and professionalism have safeguarded U.S. interests for decades. Attacking USAID professionals means attacking the very people who work to prevent conflicts, stabilize fragile regions, and advance American interests abroad. The Memorial Wall at USAID honors the members of the Foreign Service who have given their lives in service to our nation.

Equally alarming is the lack of explanation for the reorganization and of communication with stakeholders, including Congress, USAID leadership, and career professionals. The sudden transfer of USAID’s functions to the State Department, apparently without Congressional notification and no clear plan for continuity, raises serious concerns about the future of U.S. development policy and America’s global standing.

USAID’s work directly supports U.S. security and global stability, from providing emergency food assistance to millions worldwide to countering the influence of adversaries like China and Russia, who stand ready to fill the void left by the United States. Weakening or eliminating this agency will only help those who seek to undermine American leadership.

The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) is the professional association and labor union of the men and women of the United States Foreign Service.