Trump's foreign aid cuts threaten various programs in Morocco

A 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign aid, enacted through an executive order on January 20th—Donald Trump’s first day in office—has significantly disrupted various programs in Morocco, according to Morocco World News.

HIV initiatives funded by the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a U.S. organization that has operated in Morocco for 15 years was cited at risk in a recent report from the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS).

The report also mentioned that programs providing reproductive health services and the protection of vulnerable populations face dramatic funding cuts. It warned it could disrupt vaccination campaigns, and weaken emergency responses to public health crises such as COVID-19.

Beyond health services, UNAIDS expressed alarm over the funding freeze's effect on the post-earthquake recovery program in Al Haouz, which was financed by USAID.

On February 23rd, nearly all USAID employees were placed on administrative leave, except for those designated as essential personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, leadership, or specially designated programs.

For many Moroccan NGOs, USAID has been a primary donor.

A survey conducted by Mobilising for Rights Associates (MRA) between February 4-16 revealed the immediate consequences of the funding freeze. According to the survey, 53% of Moroccan NGOs were forced to cancel planned activities, while 25% struggled to pay staff salaries. Additionally, 22% of organizations reported difficulties covering basic operational costs, such as rent and utilities, and 11% were compelled to lay off personnel.

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to release delayed foreign aid payments, which could amount to nearly $2 billion, according to a USAID official cited in a report in ABC News. The ruling comes after the administration was found to have violated a temporary restraining order issued two weeks earlier concerning the aid freeze.