The US State Department announced on Wednesday (local time) that it is blocking funding for various “woke programs,” including gender development initiatives, sex education, and pro-abortion programs. Officials stated that these programs do not contribute to making America “stronger, safer, or more prosperous.”
Focus on American Interests
In an official statement, the State Department emphasized that no foreign nation is entitled to American aid.
“Americans are a hard-working and generous people, who have sacrificed their blood and treasure to help their fellow man across the globe. But no foreign nation is entitled to those benefits, and no foreign aid program is above scrutiny,” the statement read.
The department highlighted that the 90-day pause and review of US foreign aid is helping eliminate waste and block unnecessary programs that do not align with America’s national interests.
Programs Affected by Funding Cuts
The funding pause has impacted several initiatives, including:
- Contraceptive aid and condom distribution in Gaza
- Climate justice marketing in Gabon
- Clean energy programs for women in Fiji
- Gender development initiatives
- Family planning programs across Latin America
- Sex education and pro-abortion programs for young girls worldwide
Trump’s 90-Day Foreign Aid Freeze
On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced a 90-day freeze on all US foreign aid. However, exceptions were made for “emergency food assistance”, with additional requests reviewed and approved within hours.
On January 28, 2025, the Secretary of State approved a broad humanitarian aid waiver, ensuring continued support for life-saving medicine, medical services, food, shelter, and essential supplies.
$40 Billion Foreign Aid Under Review
The US spends approximately $40 billion annually on foreign aid—four out of every ten dollars in global humanitarian aid. The State Department stressed that the temporary pause is crucial to preventing wasteful spending.
“Every dollar we spend, every program we fund, and every policy we pursue must make America safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” the statement concluded.