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EU Recognizes Its Inability to Address USAID Funding Shortfall While US Aid Remains Frozen
The European Commission cautions that the EU cannot solely bridge the gap created by the cessation of USAID funding, which impacts humanitarian and disability support initiatives in Ukraine and elsewhere.
The European Commission has indicated that the European Union cannot close the funding gap created by the significant decline in international humanitarian aid following the freeze on funds by the United States Agency for International Development during the Trump administration.
A spokesperson for the Commission pointed out that although the EU continues to be a key humanitarian donor, the magnitude and intricacy of current global challenges necessitate a united international response, as the EU is unable to bear the responsibility on its own.
This funding deficit has adversely affected numerous projects, particularly those assisting individuals with disabilities in the Balkans, Eastern Europe, and the South Caucasus.
Organizations focused on disability have reported disruptions in essential programs and are calling on the EU to provide urgent financial assistance.
One project impacted is by the League of the Strong in Ukraine, which was set to receive $373,303 to help 570 individuals across regions such as Chernihiv, Kirovohrad, and Kharkiv.
This initiative aimed to deliver services like assistive devices, digital training, and legal support.
Moreover, a program designed to assist 450 disabled war veterans in Ukraine has been suspended due to the lack of alternative funding.
The Commission’s comments occur amidst a broader backdrop of the Trump administration's policy, which has included a freeze on all foreign aid and a reduction in USAID staffing since taking office on January 20, negatively impacting projects focused on health improvement, poverty reduction, and human rights advocacy worldwide.
Disability organizations, including the European Disability Forum and groups from Albania, Ukraine, and Georgia, have called on the EU to incorporate disability inclusion into all its humanitarian aid and funding frameworks and to collaborate with national governments to boost support in the affected areas.
The European Commission's stance highlights the urgent need for a collaborative international initiative to tackle the increasing funding shortfall that now leaves millions without necessary assistance.
A spokesperson for the Commission pointed out that although the EU continues to be a key humanitarian donor, the magnitude and intricacy of current global challenges necessitate a united international response, as the EU is unable to bear the responsibility on its own.
This funding deficit has adversely affected numerous projects, particularly those assisting individuals with disabilities in the Balkans, Eastern Europe, and the South Caucasus.
Organizations focused on disability have reported disruptions in essential programs and are calling on the EU to provide urgent financial assistance.
One project impacted is by the League of the Strong in Ukraine, which was set to receive $373,303 to help 570 individuals across regions such as Chernihiv, Kirovohrad, and Kharkiv.
This initiative aimed to deliver services like assistive devices, digital training, and legal support.
Moreover, a program designed to assist 450 disabled war veterans in Ukraine has been suspended due to the lack of alternative funding.
The Commission’s comments occur amidst a broader backdrop of the Trump administration's policy, which has included a freeze on all foreign aid and a reduction in USAID staffing since taking office on January 20, negatively impacting projects focused on health improvement, poverty reduction, and human rights advocacy worldwide.
Disability organizations, including the European Disability Forum and groups from Albania, Ukraine, and Georgia, have called on the EU to incorporate disability inclusion into all its humanitarian aid and funding frameworks and to collaborate with national governments to boost support in the affected areas.
The European Commission's stance highlights the urgent need for a collaborative international initiative to tackle the increasing funding shortfall that now leaves millions without necessary assistance.
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