Statement on Pause in U.S Foreign Assistance and What It Means for Children

Childhood Education International is deeply concerned about a recent directive issued by the Department of State ordering an immediate pause on new foreign aid spending and a stop-work order for existing grants and contracts.

Combined with the Trump Administration’s Executive Order placing a 90-day pause on new foreign development aid, these actions profoundly jeopardize the stability and long-term effectiveness of U.S. global assistance and threaten progress on important initiatives that support education, public health, economic wellbeing, and more.

“As an organization dedicated to building bright futures for all children worldwide, Childhood Education International is deeply concerned about the impacts of this approach, especially on the wellbeing and safety of children,” said Diane Whitehead, President and CEO of CE International. “U.S. foreign assistance contributes to critical education programs that support global peace, security, and sustainable futures. This abrupt stop will result in confusion, uncertainty, and harm to children. The harm to children’s health and safety is particularly difficult to accept, as a sudden end to child protection and feeding initiatives will have severe consequences on children’s lives, including disease and death.”

Education programs funded by the U.S. have proudly created the foundation for individual success and wellbeing, as well as community and global progress and sustainable futures. Disruptions in education cause significant harm for children’s development. Many will experience learning loss, as well as disruption and uncertainty that can impact their wellbeing, and some will never return to school. This suspension and stop-work order will cause lasting damage and affect the U.S in unexpected ways that may threaten its own security.

“CE International calls on the Trump Administration and the State Department to reconsider this abrupt pause and recognize the critical importance of continuity for education and other vital foreign assistance programs,” Diane said. “It is a sad day when the U.S. turns its back on the children of the world.”