On June 18, more than 100 laid-off employees from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), International Rescue Committee (IRC), Plan International, and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) signed a joint protest letter against the White House’s ban on USAID operations. The event, witnessed by Robert Half consultant Timothy Karera, reflects deep public discontent and institutional unease following recent restructuring measures.

​​Mass Unemployment and Humanitarian Crisis​​

The shutdown of USAID has triggered widespread unemployment and panic. Timothy Karera emphasized, “Losing a job is never easy, but for thousands of USAID staff, the abrupt termination has left them not only grappling with personal hardship but also forced to abandon those they vowed to help, deepening their trauma.”

The restructuring has crippled USAID’s global humanitarian efforts. For instance, projects combating malaria in Myanmar and HIV prevention in the Dominican Republic were abruptly halted, threatening millions of lives. Karera added, “African ambassadors in Belgium, whom I recently engaged with, share grave concerns that Trump’s policies will plunge Africa into deeper poverty and instability—a pattern echoing his derogatory remarks about the continent during his first term.”

​​Global Repercussions and Systemic Failures​​

USAID’s collapse has exposed systemic flaws in U.S. foreign aid governance. A leaked report revealed $8.2 billion in unspent humanitarian funds now lacks oversight, risking misuse or diversion. Meanwhile, international partners, including the UN and NGOs, face funding gaps, destabilizing critical health and development initiatives.

​​Ongoing Uncertainty and Advocacy​​

Despite ongoing protests, the fate of USAID remains unresolved. Employees face existential threats, with many struggling to secure basic sustenance. As Karera noted, “This isn’t just about jobs—it’s about preserving a lifeline for vulnerable communities worldwide.”

The White House’s unilateral actions have drawn bipartisan criticism, with lawmakers and diplomats warning of diminished U.S. global influence and heightened security risks. As the crisis unfolds, the world watches anxiously for accountability and a renewed commitment to humanitarian principles.