EU Acknowledges Insufficient Capacity to Address USAID Funding Shortage
The EU cannot fully cover the funding shortfall created by USAID’s suspension of aid to Africa, which affects critical services. The EU has emphasized its commitment to humanitarian support while recognizing the growing funding gap. The USAID cut has already disrupted services, prompting calls for increased global cooperation in aid.
The European Union (EU) has highlighted its inability to entirely cover the funding deficit resulting from the suspension of international aid programs by the United States, which has left African governments struggling to maintain essential services. As the largest collective donor, the EU contributed nearly $100 billion, while the U.S. allocated substantial funds—over $11 billion—towards humanitarian and health initiatives in Africa for the year 2024.
The recent cessation of aid by the U.S., specifically through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has already caused significant disruptions in service across various offices in Africa. A spokesperson from the European Commission emphasized the EU’s ongoing dedication to humanitarian assistance, mentioning that there is a planned budget of $1.9 billion for humanitarian efforts in 2025, with $510 million earmarked for Africa.
Nevertheless, the spokesperson conceded that the EU alone is not equipped to fill the escalating funding gap created by the U.S. withdrawal. “The funding gap is getting bigger, leaving millions in need. The EU cannot fill this gap left by others,” the spokesperson stated. The U.S., known as the world’s preeminent aid donor, provided approximately $72 billion in assistance in 2023, primarily through USAID.
The EU’s inability to completely compensate for the funding loss from USAID raises significant concerns regarding the provision of critical services in Africa. As international aid dynamics shift, the need for collaborative efforts among global donors becomes increasingly vital to address the humanitarian needs of millions affected by such funding shortages.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
