Experts warn USAID cuts may worsen global health crises and disease outbreaks

In a tense and urgent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs, lawmakers and experts gathered to discuss the alarming implications of dismantling the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The atmosphere was charged with concern as representatives highlighted the potential consequences of cutting vital health and food assistance programs that have historically saved countless lives around the globe.

One speaker passionately warned, “If you don't give out the HIV prophylactic medications, people are gonna die,” emphasizing the critical role of USAID in providing essential health services. The discussion underscored a stark reality: without U.S. support, many countries could face dire shortages of food and medical supplies, leading to preventable deaths from starvation and disease. “No other country can backfill what the United States does,” they stated, reflecting a deep-seated belief in the nation’s responsibility to lead in global humanitarian efforts.

As the conversation unfolded, the committee members expressed their fears about the resurgence of diseases like malaria and tuberculosis, which could threaten not only developing nations but also the health of Americans. “We are gonna see extremely drug-resistant tuberculosis already popping up in Kansas,” one representative warned, linking the dismantling of USAID to a broader public health crisis. The potential for outbreaks of measles and polio was also raised, with lawmakers stressing that these are preventable conditions that could see a resurgence if support systems are weakened.

The meeting also touched on the interconnectedness of global health, with one member noting that “viruses and infectious diseases can't be contained by national borders.” This sentiment resonated throughout the discussion, as experts pointed out that the dismantling of USAID could jeopardize not only international health but also the safety of Americans.

As the session drew to a close, the urgency of the situation was palpable. Lawmakers called for continued advocacy and action, urging their colleagues to recognize the implications of these cuts. “This is dangerous what's happening. It's malpractice, and it's illegal,” one representative declared, rallying support for the cause. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to uphold the values of compassion and responsibility that have long defined American foreign aid.

The discussions at this meeting serve as a stark reminder of the critical role that USAID plays in global health and development. As the future of this agency hangs in the balance, the potential consequences of its dismantling loom large, not just for those in need abroad, but for the health and safety of the American public as well.