European Nations Seek Refund from USAID for Unallocated Funds
Three European nations, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, are seeking a refund from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) for funds they contributed to development projects that have remained unspent.
The three countries, allies of the United States, provided a combined $15 million for USAID to spend on low-income countries in a project called Water and Energy for Food (WE4F). However, with the Republican administration and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cutting USAID's funding and programs, the Europeans have requested a refund.
Their initial emails to USAID inquiring about the money went unanswered, leading to frustration and threats of media exposure. The nations expressed concern for their partner organizations who were not being compensated for their work on the programs.
Further investigation revealed that other foreign governments had also contributed funds to USAID for distribution, but the total amount and the number of affected governments remain unclear. The US State Department and USAID have not responded to requests for information on this matter.
The WE4F project, a joint initiative between several European countries and USAID, aimed to help farmers in poorer countries develop innovative ways to grow more food without straining water supplies. The failure to disburse or refund the allies' donations is harming millions of vulnerable farmers who rely on the project's technologies for their food production and security.
Sweden's development agency estimates that it has $12 million, including $5.1 million for WE4F, sitting in USAID accounts. Norway and the Netherlands have also confirmed contributions to the project that remain unallocated.
Despite the lack of response from USAID, the three nations are working with other donors to explore alternative ways to continue the WE4F program.
12 Comments
Answer
This is a disgrace. The US should be ashamed of itself.
The Truth
Shame on the US for turning its back on the world's poorest people. This will only worsen global poverty and hunger.
Answer
This is a step backward for global development. It will only make it harder to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
The Truth
This is a way to ensure that the money is used effectively. The European nations can directly support the programs they believe in.
Mariposa
This is a sign of the times. The US is becoming increasingly isolationist and protectionist.
Coccinella
This is a slap in the face to our European allies. We need to demand a full refund and an explanation.
Comandante
This is a chance to set a new standard for international development. We need to be more transparent and accountable with our funding.
Muchacha
This is a dangerous precedent. If the US can get away with this, other countries will follow suit.
Mariposa
This is a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves. We can all contribute to making the world a better place.
Bella Ciao
This is a worrying trend. We need to be vigilant and hold our government accountable.
Muchacho
Outrageous! USAID needs to be held accountable for this misuse of funds.
ZmeeLove
This is just another example of the US's arrogance on the world stage. They think they can get away with anything.