Press Release: NCGHA Sounds Alarm on USAID Shutdown, Impacting Jobs and Economy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 4, 2025

North Carolina Global Health Alliance Condemns Dismantling of USAID, Citing Severe Economic and Security Impacts for North Carolina

Raleigh, NC – The North Carolina Global Health Alliance (NCGHA) expresses profound concern over the recent actions leading to the dismantling of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Following an initial Stop Work Order that paused all funding and caused immediate furloughs and disruptions, the subsequent shutdown of USAID operations has exacerbated the crisis, threatening thousands of jobs in North Carolina and posing significant risks to both the state's economy and global stability.

North Carolina stands as the fourth-largest recipient of USAID funding in the nation, supporting a robust global health sector that contributes $31.9 billion annually to the state's economy. The initial funding freeze led to immediate furloughs and disrupted long-standing international partnerships. The complete dismantling of USAID now jeopardizes the future of numerous organizations and the livelihoods of countless professionals dedicated to global health and development.

"The dismantling of USAID is a direct assault on North Carolina's economic vitality and our leadership in global health," said Brianna Clarke-Schwelm, Executive Director of the NCGHA. "The initial funding freeze was devastating, but the complete shutdown threatens to decimate an industry that not only provides thousands of jobs but also plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges."

Beyond the immediate economic repercussions, the closure of USAID undermines U.S. national security interests. USAID's programs are instrumental in countering global instability, mitigating the influence of adversaries, and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The absence of these programs cedes strategic ground to competitors and diminishes the United States' ability to respond to international crises.

The NCGHA urgently calls upon North Carolina's congressional delegation, including Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, to take immediate action to address this crisis. The organization also encourages concerned citizens to contact their representatives to advocate for the restoration of USAID's critical functions.

"We cannot afford to remain passive as an essential agency is dismantled, jeopardizing both our state's economy and our national security," Clarke-Schwelm added. "It is imperative that we act swiftly to restore USAID's operations and protect the interests of North Carolina and the nation."

For media inquiries, please contact:

Brianna Clarke-Schwelm

Executive Director, North Carolina Global Health Alliance

Email: Brianna@ncglobalhealth.org

Website: www.ncglobalhealth.org