Refugee Congress Decries Funding Cuts to Resettlement, Humanitarian Aid That Harm Communities in the U.S. and Globally

The Trump administration further targeted refugee resettlement and support services, promptly cutting funding for nearly 10,000 U.S.-funded projects in the U.S. and around the world. On Thursday, February 27th, the State Department terminated contracts for organizations and projects that provide lifesaving care for millions of people globally, including Resettlement Support Centers (RSCs) that help process and prepare refugees for resettlement and Reception & Placement programs that help newly resettled refugees integrate in the United States.

Refugee Congress strongly denounces the administration’s decision to irresponsibly cut funding and critical support systems that millions of vulnerable populations around the world rely on. The United States has been a global leader in providing lifesaving care for people all over the world, and Americans have demonstrated an eagerness and commitment to welcome people seeking safety. These actions by the Trump administration go directly against the values and character that has historically made the United States a respected leader in humanitarian aid.

The termination of these awards has already had a disastrous impact globally and domestically. Food security, healthcare, and essential services in crisis-affected countries will further instability and suffering. The impacts to Reception and Placement (R&P) services will leave refugees – including Afghan allies with Special Immigration Visas (SIVs) – without critical support after their arrival to the U.S.

“In yet another disappointing and irresponsible move, the Trump administration continues to demonstrate a lack of compassion that goes directly against American values of welcoming and caring for our most vulnerable neighbors. Historically, the United States has been a beacon of hope and safety for people worldwide, and our nation has demonstrated great leadership in supporting critical humanitarian aid to forcibly displaced people and communities facing crisis,” said Nili Sarit Yossinger, Executive Director. “By terminating funding for lifesaving programs, our leaders betray what Americans have supported for decades, and the consequences of this decision will be felt deeply not just by impacted individuals but also by the communities that have demonstrated a commitment to support them. Refugee Congress strongly urges Congress and elected leaders to take responsibility and immediately restore funding for these necessary programs, including R&P supporting refugee arrivals, RSCs providing care for those awaiting resettlement, and a full restoration and protection of the US Refugee Admissions Program.”