US aid freeze leaves major funding shortfalls in Afghanistan, report warns

The suspension of U.S. foreign assistance to Afghanistan has created significant funding gaps in humanitarian and development sectors, Amu TV revealed citing a new report by ACAPS. This aid freeze poses a growing risk to vulnerable communities, with potential increases in humanitarian needs and reduced access to essential services.

Despite a waiver allowing life-saving programs to continue, many organizations have terminated operations due to unclear guidance. Nearly all U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) direct hires are on administrative leave, and NGOs reliant on U.S. funding are receiving termination notices.

A leaked memo suggests the Biden administration plans to dissolve USAID by September 30, creating a new U.S. Agency for International Humanitarian Assistance within the State Department, which would refocus efforts on humanitarian response and disaster relief.

ACAPS reports that 36% of U.S. assistance to Afghanistan has already been cut, with nearly 47% of humanitarian funding slashed. With about 23 million Afghans in need of assistance, the report emphasizes the urgent need for the international community to address these funding gaps to prevent worsening conditions in the country.