As an International NGO based in the Netherlands, working closely with partners across Eastern Europe and Central Asia, we are deeply concerned about the U.S. government’s decision to impose a 90-day freeze on virtually all foreign aid, including PEPFAR. This abrupt halt has already begun to severely impact the lives of millions, particularly those living with HIV, and threatens to dismantle years of progress in global health and human rights.
The January 27 directive to halt U.S.-funded HIV medication left critical supplies stranded, depriving people of lifesaving treatment. Although a waiver was later granted, the future of prevention programs and healthcare services remains unclear. Additionally, disabling PEPFAR data systems and placing USAID officials on leave have further destabilized global health efforts.
Each day the pause continues, 222,000 people around the world miss HIV medication, and 271,000 healthcare workers face stop-work orders. The rollback of funding, reinstatement of the Global Gag Rule, and restrictions on human rights put millions at risk.
Our partners depend on U.S. funding for essential medical services and community support. The sudden freeze threatens lives and the financial stability of NGOs and frontline workers.
We stand in solidarity with our partners and the millions affected by these decisions, and are jointly looking for solutions to close these devastating gaps.
We trust that the US government (and other governments) will understand the need to support the underprivileged communities in all developing countries and hope that new decisions will lead to new initiatives in favour of millions of people.
AFEW International
