Controversial Role in Interfering with Democratic Governments, USAID Operations Shut Down

Staff Reporter

The United States Department of State has completely shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The decision came into effect on Tuesday local time.

USAID’s operations began shrinking after Donald Trump became president, culminating in its complete closure. Investigations revealed that the agency had been funding various activities to overthrow democratic governments in countries including Bangladesh.

British media BBC reported that in March of this year, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the Trump administration had canceled 83% of USAID’s programs. A six-week review led to the termination of 5,200 contracts, through which billions of dollars had been spent over decades.

According to Rubio, a significant portion of these programs were contrary to U.S. national interests.

USAID’s existence came under threat after Trump took office in January. Qatar-based media Al Jazeera reported that Trump was determined to dismantle the agency. Elon Musk, then head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), oversaw various cuts to USAID.

USAID was established in 1961 under the leadership of U.S. President John F. Kennedy. It served as a primary vehicle for U.S. foreign aid, managing approximately $40 billion in annual funds. These funds were allocated to sectors including health, education, environment, and human rights, though the agency faced repeated allegations of political motives behind such aid.

Particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh, USAID faced frequent accusations of using fund distribution to exert diplomatic pressure and political interference under the guise of promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance.

Many analysts believe that, under the cover of development aid, USAID sometimes funded anti-government movements, media, or NGOs to influence the formation of governments aligned with specific ideologies.

In Bangladesh, substantial evidence has already emerged regarding USAID’s controversial role in attempts to destabilize the Awami League government over several years.

While many have welcomed the shutdown of USAID, concerns remain about its global impact.

A report published in *The Lancet* claimed that the cessation of this aid could put nearly 140 million people worldwide at risk of death due to lack of healthcare access.

Former U.S. Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama have strongly criticized this decision.