Today, I had the opportunity to present an urgent analysis on the US aid freeze to the Ukraine Cash Working Group (CWG), breaking down the latest developments and potential impacts on humanitarian cash assistance.
Key Takeaways from the Briefing
Immediate Suspension: As of January 28, 2025, all USAID-funded program activities must pause immediately per the latest directive.
Stop-Work Orders Incoming: Official suspension notices will be issued soon, impacting all implementing partners and sub-recipients.
Humanitarian Waiver Challenges: While a waiver exists, organizations must receive formal notification from their Contracting/Agreement Officer (CO/AO) before resuming activities.
Review Timeline: The aid freeze review is set to conclude by April 18, 2025—programs will either resume, be modified, or be terminated.
Operational Uncertainty: Funding suspensions, compliance burdens, and unclear waiver criteria pose immediate challenges for humanitarian organizations.
What’s Next?
Organizations must document impacts, engage with COs/AOs, and prepare contingency plans. Collaboration and advocacy will be key in navigating this crisis.
Full Briefing Available: https://bit.ly/3WC4BeZ
How is this freeze affecting your programs in Ukraine? Let’s keep the conversation going—your insights are crucial in shaping collective action.
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