The reverberations of President Donald Trump’s systematic dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAid) are echoing across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. From Papua New Guinea to Samoa, hundreds of Pacific Islanders who have dedicated their livelihoods to USAid-backed initiatives now find themselves grappling with a future shrouded in uncertainty.
USAid, the foreign assistance arm of the U.S. government, has long been a pillar of support for the Pacific region, channeling funds into a kaleidoscope of projects encompassing health, climate change resilience, and economic development. The agency’s abrupt withdrawal has sent shockwaves through communities that have come to rely on these programs for their sustenance and growth.
A Lifeline Severed
For many Pacific Islanders, USAid projects represent more than just employment; they are a lifeline that extends to entire families and communities. Dr. Lefaoalii Dion Enari, a Pacific expert at Auckland University of Technology, underscores the far-reaching impact of these initiatives:
At the individual level, Pacific Islanders are definitely affected by this. US-funded projects are usually well paid, and in places like Papua New Guinea, a single income supports extended family members and communities.
Dr. Lefaoalii Dion Enari, Auckland University of Technology
The Guardian reached out to a dozen individuals across the Pacific who are directly involved in USAid projects. Speaking under the condition of anonymity due to fears of jeopardizing future income prospects, they painted a picture of lives upended and communities left in limbo.
Papua New Guinea: Anxiety Amidst Uncertainty
In Papua New Guinea, an organization that relies heavily on USAid funding expressed deep concern about its ability to continue operations. “We employ four people, and as of now, we do not know how long we will remain in operation,” a representative confided.
Samoa: Seeking Alternative Lifelines
The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in Samoa, which received over half a million dollars from USAid in 2023 to empower women and enhance disaster preparedness, is now actively seeking alternative funding sources to sustain its critical programs. The organization remains hopeful yet pragmatic in the face of adversity.
Resilience Amidst Uncertainty
Despite the profound challenges posed by USAid’s withdrawal, Pacific Islanders are no strangers to resilience. Dr. Enari emphasizes the strength of the region’s social safety nets, particularly in Samoa, where communities have long banded together in times of hardship.
Even though this is shocking initially for our people, at the end of the day, we are resilient. For Samoa, and for many across our islands, we have social safety nets built into the community to help in such times.
Dr. Lefaoalii Dion Enari, Auckland University of Technology
The True Cost: Strained US-Pacific Relations
While the Pacific region may weather the immediate storm, experts caution that the true cost of USAid’s withdrawal lies in the damage to US-Pacific relations. The abrupt nature of the cuts, executed without consultation or regard for the human impact, has left a bitter taste in the mouths of many Pacific leaders.
We deeply value loyalty and respect, and this move was disrespectful. It was not consultative and has directly affected community livelihoods, this will not be easily forgotten by Pacific leaders.
Dr. Lefaoalii Dion Enari, Auckland University of Technology
As the Pacific grapples with the fallout of USAid’s withdrawal, the region’s resilience will undoubtedly be put to the test. Yet, amidst the uncertainty, one thing remains clear: the Pacific will persevere, as it always has, even as it reassesses its relationship with a United States that has chosen to turn its back on a long-standing partnership.
