USAID Places All Direct Hire Personnel on Administrative Leave Amid Controversy
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced that effective Friday, February 7, 2025, all direct hire personnel around the world will be placed on administrative leave. This decision notably excludes individuals deemed essential for mission-critical functions, core leadership roles, and specially designated programs.
The announcement comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s recent threats to dismantle the organization, citing claims of corruption. On its official website, USAID indicated that essential personnel would receive notifications from agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00 pm EST.
Planning for Personnel Recall
In preparation for this transition, USAID is collaborating with the Department of State to devise a strategy for staff currently stationed outside the United States. The agency plans to arrange and cover the costs of their return travel to the U.S. within a 30-day timeframe. Additionally, it will terminate Personal Services Contracts (PSC) and Institutional Support Contracts (ISC) unless they are considered essential.
USAID stated that exceptions to the mandatory return travel will be evaluated on an individual basis, accounting for personal or family hardships, safety concerns, mobility issues, dependents’ educational commitments, medical conditions, pregnancies, and other circumstances. Further instructions on how to request these exceptions are expected to be released soon.
Concerns over Aid Disruption
This move to place personnel on administrative leave has raised alarm bells regarding a potential disruption to USAID’s vital humanitarian and development initiatives globally. Operating in over 100 countries, USAID plays a pivotal role in addressing critical issues such as global health crises, food insecurity, and economic development. The decision is particularly worrisome for ongoing projects and obligations in Nigeria, where the agency recently pledged $2.3 million to procure malaria medications.
Backdrop of Criticism from Trump and Musk
The announcement occurs amid increasing scrutiny regarding USAID’s efficacy, with significant criticisms voiced by President Trump and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. During a recent discussion on X Spaces, Musk revealed that Trump had expressed agreement on the need to “shut down” USAID, following days of speculation about the agency’s future after its funding was frozen, and numerous employees were put on leave.
Musk recounted discussions with Trump, stating, “With regards to the USAID stuff, I went over it in detail with the president, and he agreed that we should shut it down.” Just prior to this conversation, Trump commented to reporters regarding USAID’s management: “It’s been run by a bunch of radical lunatics, and we’re getting them out, and then we’ll make a decision” regarding the agency’s future. CNN has sought comments from both the White House and USAID regarding these developments.
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