Cuts to USAID funded programmes have had a serious impact across Bangladesh. More than 100 development projects, worth an estimated $550 million, have been suspended following the decision to halt funding on January 20, 2025. These projects were supporting essential areas like healthcare, clean water, disaster response, education, and income opportunities.
The effects have been immediate, with over 300 direct staff from the USAID Mission Office in Bangladesh losing their jobs. Around 20,000 people working for NGOs and local organisations have also lost their jobs, including over 1,000 public health professionals. These were people helping to run clinics, deliver education programmes, and support vulnerable families in some of the country’s most at-risk communities.
Healthcare systems are now under growing pressure. Projects that helped track infectious diseases and supported emergency response have been paused. With the monsoon season underway, the loss of this support could make it harder to respond to outbreaks, particularly in areas already struggling with limited access to care.
Water and sanitation have also been affected. In coastal areas, where water supplies are often contaminated by salt, projects that made drinking water safe have been shut down. These areas are now more exposed to water shortages and health risks, especially during floods and cyclones.
Programmes focused on supporting women and children are facing steep cuts. Funding for child protection has dropped by 36 percent, while services addressing gender-based violence have been reduced by half. These reductions put more children at risk of early marriage, child labour, and exploitation, particularly as economic pressures grow.
Food insecurity is becoming more visible. As household incomes fall and food prices rise, many families are struggling to cope. Some are resorting to selling essential non-food items just to buy food. Children are being pulled out of school in some areas to help earn an income or care for siblings.
Although some funding for specific humanitarian responses remains, the wider cuts have disrupted services that many communities relied on every day. Progress made in areas like education, health, and economic inclusion is now at risk of stalling.
We’re continuing to work closely with our partners in Bangladesh to support communities where we can, but the gaps left by these cuts are significant. Without renewed support, it will become harder for families to access the services they need to stay healthy, safe, and ready for future challenges.