The Committee on Humanitarian and Information Policy stressed the importance of continued cooperation between Ukraine and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). USAID-supported programmes play a key role in strengthening democratic institutions, developing civil society and independent media in Ukraine.
In the course of cooperation with USAID, Ukraine has implemented a number of cultural, educational, and social projects that have created jobs, supported the media sector, and provided creative development for young people. However, the US decision to temporarily suspend funding has created significant challenges for organisations that depended on this assistance.
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Problems have arisen not only in Ukraine – dozens of other countries have also faced the consequences of the suspension of grant programmes. Now, governments and organisations are looking for ways to adapt to the new conditions while the audit of the effectiveness of US aid continues.
The parliament has already started consultations with European partners on potential replacement of US grants. However, it is expected that the normalisation of processes may take several months, which poses risks for the cultural, media and social initiatives, especially in times of war.
In the context of the information confrontation with Russia, grant support has become an important factor in preserving independent media and promoting cultural diplomacy. USAID also supports projects that provide psychological assistance to families affected by the war, support the educational process for children, and ensure the functioning of important public programmes.
Read also: The discussion around the suspension of USAID aid has descended to a petty level
