DOGE, led by Elon Musk, cancels $750 million in US foreign aid projects, including those in Bangladesh and India, citing cost-cutting measures.
 |
| DOGE announces the cancellation of $750 million in foreign aid, impacting political and social projects across Bangladesh, India, and 8 other countries. Image/ Illustration: ChicHue |
Washington, USA — Feb 16, 2025:
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the leadership of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, has made a significant move by slashing $750 million in US-funded overseas projects. The cuts include notable programs in countries such as Bangladesh and India, drawing attention to US foreign aid policy changes.
A key project in Bangladesh, aimed at "strengthening the political landscape," has been canceled, amounting to $29 million. Funded by USAID and DFID, the program sought to reduce political violence and enhance relationships between political parties and their constituents. The initiative, running from 2017 to 2024, was an essential part of US efforts to support Bangladesh's political stability.
In India, the cancellation of $21 million for a voter turnout project has stirred controversy. The decision follows US President Donald Trump’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. However, concerns about external interference in India's electoral process have been raised by BJP leaders, including Amit Malviya and Nishikant Dubey. They have questioned the validity of such funding, citing potential ties to opposition parties.
In addition to these major projects, DOGE has cut funds for other international initiatives. Nepal faces the cancellation of $20 million for "fiscal federalism" and $19 million for "biodiversity conservation." Other affected countries include Mozambique, Cambodia, Serbia, Moldova, Liberia, Mali, and Kosovo.
These cuts reflect a broader policy shift under the Trump administration’s cost-saving measures, with an emphasis on reassessing US overseas aid and its impacts.