In brief
Dmytro Sherembey, an HIV-positive individual from Ukraine, highlights the critical role of USAID in his life and healthcare amidst looming cuts to the agency. Concerns emerge globally as experts warn that potential funding freeze could severely impact health services, education, and human rights advocacy.
"I'm alive thanks to USAID," says Dmytro Sherembey, a Ukrainian living with HIV for 24 years. He credits the agency with significantly contributing to the identification and treatment of HIV in Ukraine. However, the future of USAID is now uncertain, as recent statements from US President Donald Trump have called into question the agency's operations, claiming it is plagued by "tremendous fraud" run by "radical left lunatics" without substantiated evidence.In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, critical infrastructures for HIV medication were destroyed, and Sherembey, leading 100% Life, the country's largest patient-led organization, notes that USAID played a pivotal role in quickly securing replacement medicines. "This aid could be stopped by one person's decision," he remarks, alluding to the shifting political landscape.USAID, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, has approximately 10,000 employees and a budget nearing $40 billion, accounting for a significant portion of US foreign aid. The agency operates in over 60 countries, primarily through partnerships with other organizations. Its scope ranges from disaster relief to health services and agricultural assistance, providing food and crucial health programs in regions facing crisis.Recent protests against USAID in Washington DC signal discontent over the proposed reassessment of its foreign assistance programs. Critics, including high-profile individuals such as Elon Musk, have labeled USAID as a "criminal organization" and called for its dissolution without presenting evidence to support these claims.The ramifications of a potential shutdown or reduction in USAID's funding are particularly alarming for countries like Afghanistan, where the agency is a key donor in health initiatives aimed at mothers and children. A local doctor shared that over 60 healthcare professionals had been sidelined in response to the budget freeze, raising fears about increased mortality rates as medical facilities face closure.In Iran, activists funded by USAID emphasize the importance of continued support in socio-political efforts, particularly in safeguarding human rights. The looming funding freeze threatens critical measures that prevent oppression and censorship within the country.Additionally, the agency provides educational scholarships to thousands of students worldwide. Mohamed Ashraf, a top student from Egypt, expressed his anxiety over the uncertain future of his education and aspirations amid these changes.While President Trump has long been an opponent of foreign spending, the logistics of fully terminating USAID would likely need Congressional approval. The administration's current strategy appears to involve a merger of the agency with the Department of State, leading to thousands of staff being placed on leave.For Sherembey, the risks associated with the potential eradication of USAID's support are personal and pressing. He warns of dire consequences for individuals living with HIV in Ukraine, where access to medication is already a perilous challenge. "You cannot simply go to a pharmacy and buy these drugs," he asserts, illustrating the gravity of the situation as he faces an uncertain future.
