KATHMANDU: The future of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has come into question following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to halt all international aid. The agency’s website has been taken offline, and several staff members are being removed from their positions, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding the institution.
Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency formed under Trump, has made statements deeming USAID unnecessary. On social media platform X, Musk referred to the agency as a “criminal organization” and remarked that the agency’s time had come to an end. His comments have amplified the doubts about USAID’s existence and operations in the future. This follows Trump’s earlier move to freeze international aid, halting all of USAID’s operations.
USAID is a criminal organization.
Time for it to die. https://t.co/sWYy6fyt1k
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 2, 2025
The simultaneous closure of USAID’s website and Musk’s controversial remarks have prompted widespread speculation that the agency might be on the verge of closure. In addition, senior staff members at USAID are being let go, and many others are being asked to take leave. With approximately 10,000 employees working across the globe, two-thirds of them are stationed in various countries outside the United States.
In Nepal, the suspension of USAID’s activities has also been felt. While the exact number of employees in Nepal remains unclear, some local staff have been asked to take leave. The suspension of operations has left many employees, particularly Nepali workers, in a state of confusion and uncertainty about their future roles.
Notably, USAID had recently opened recruitment for positions in Nepal, but with operations now on hold, these processes have been abruptly paused. Moreover, many government and non-government programs that were being funded by USAID have been suspended. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Nepal are particularly affected, as they rely heavily on the financial support provided by USAID.
In 2024, USAID had been running programs in Nepal amounting to $1.5 million, focusing on crucial sectors like education, sustainable tourism, health, and clean energy. However, with the suspension of USAID’s funding, these initiatives are now on hold, causing setbacks for ongoing projects.
Founded in 1961, USAID’s mission was to promote global economic growth, provide humanitarian assistance, and support democratic values. The recent moves, however, have thrown its future into doubt, leaving millions across the world wondering about the agency’s next steps.