INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF EDUCATIVE COMMUNITIES

On February 25, 2025, FICE International convened a global meeting with representatives from 20 national sections across four continents to address the devastating impact of the USAID 90-day funding suspension pending review. Reports from our members highlight severe humanitarian consequences, particularly in Africa, with early signs of distress also emerging in India.

For example, among FICE members, the abrupt halt of crucial aid programs has forced vital services for orphaned and vulnerable children and youth in South Africa and Kenya to suspend operations, leaving tens of thousands of children and families without support.

In South Africa, the National Association of Child Care Workers (NACCW) has been forced to lay off staff, shut down offices, and discontinue essential HIV treatment and child and youth support programs, directly affecting over 15,000 children and adolescents. Children living with HIV have lost access to lifesaving treatment and medication, putting their health and survival at immediate risk, with no alternative support systems in place. The prohibition on utilizing previously purchased essential medications further exacerbates the crisis, endangering the lives of children and youth living with HIV.

Similarly, in Kenya, the humanitarian child and youth organization Make Me Smile has been forced to cease operations, stripping nearly 15,000 children of critical protection and support, including access to healthcare and education. Additionally, the closure of 20 safe spaces that served 14,500 adolescent girls and young women has cut off access to vital prevention information, biomedical services, and economic empowerment programs.

FICE International strongly denounces the suspension of funding and its devastating humanitarian impact and calls for the immediate restoration of financial support to affected nations and institutions once the review period ends.

"Funding must resume urgently, ensuring that life-saving services continue immediately," FICE International stated.

The international community must take responsibility. FICE International urges USAID to work collaboratively with global partners to ensure financial stability for child and youth care organizations. We also call on our national governments and other international donors to step in with emergency funding to mitigate the crisis and establish long-term strategies to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

Now is the time for action. Millions of children and families depend on these programs for survival. FICE International stands in solidarity with affected children, youth and communities and remains committed to advocating for the protection and well-being of the world's most vulnerable.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Technical Assistant: Ms. Rosa Núñez, email: fice.inter@gmail.com

FICE International

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