Mass Layoffs at USAID: Employees Clear Desks Amid Administration Dismantling
USAID employees faced mass layoffs as they gathered personal belongings amid a federally ordered cutback of staff and resources. Supporters rallied outside headquarters on February 27.
It feels profoundly disrespectful to workers, to people who are dedicating themselves to making things better globally, making things better elsewhere so that they don't come here, so the problems don't come here.
'Heartbreaking': USAID staffers clear out desks after DOGE layoffs
ABC News·2M
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.All these factors make the future of USAID uncertain, even as its former employees said they continue to stand by the agency’s humanitarian mission.
Laid Off USAID Employees Express Frustration, Greeted by Supporters
Epoch Times·2M
·Mixed ReliableThis source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.RightThis outlet favors right-wing views.The Trump administration has been dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development.
USAID workers return to HQ to clear their desks, as Trump dismantles the agency
NPR·2M
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
On February 27, 2025, USAID employees cleared their desks after being laid off amidst the Trump administration's agency dismantling. Hundreds supported staff exiting the building, voicing concerns over the abrupt layoffs and the implications for global aid. Former USAID administrators criticized the administration's approach, highlighting the detrimental effects on foreign assistance. Despite the turmoil, ex-employees expressed their commitment to the agency's humanitarian mission, while the future of USAID remains uncertain as legal challenges continue against the staffing cuts.
Perspectives
The layoffs at USAID have caused significant distress among former employees, many of whom view the abrupt dismantling of the agency as a severe misstep in American foreign policy.
Critics have expressed concern that the swift cutbacks have led to a loss of vital support for humanitarian efforts globally, potentially leading to dire consequences.
Public support for ousted workers indicates a broader recognition of the agency's importance in promoting American values abroad.