The State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor has initiated a comprehensive review of its foreign assistance projects to assess their funding of climate, transgender, or diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This review, as revealed in an internal email obtained by POLITICO, will determine the fate of aid projects that were previously frozen for 90 days by an executive order from President Donald Trump in January.
Examining Aid Projects
In collaboration with the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency, the State Department has taken steps to dismantle USAID and terminate numerous U.S. foreign aid programs that encompass areas such as food security, public health, and clean energy. The review process, overseen by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL), is being conducted at the request of the White House and the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
The OMB, in conjunction with the Department of Government Efficiency, has been actively involved in reducing government programs and personnel over recent weeks. The State Department, the White House, and the OMB have not responded to requests for comments regarding these developments.
Alignment with America First Policies
The screening process involves a detailed questionnaire that requires grantees to address 36 specific questions related to the alignment of each award with President Trump’s America First foreign policy. This alignment necessitates that every dollar of foreign assistance contributes to making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
According to the email communication, the State Department is seeking prompt responses from grantees, with completed questionnaires due by the start of business on March 7 (D.C. time). The questionnaire covers various aspects, including risk management practices, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and the potential receipt of funding from countries such as China, Russia, Cuba, or Iran.
Focus on Ideological Priorities
Notably, the questionnaire delves into the ideological priorities of the Trump administration. It includes inquiries aimed at confirming that projects do not focus on DEI, climate, or environmental justice. Additionally, it seeks assurance that projects do not address transgender rights or promote gender ideology.
Furthermore, the questionnaire evaluates projects based on their impact on countering malign influences, preventing illegal immigration to the U.S., and restricting the flow of substances like fentanyl and synthetic drugs into the country.
Ensuring Alignment with American Interests
In a similar vein, USAID has issued a 23-question online assessment to aid recipients in Africa to verify that foreign aid initiatives align with American interests and values. This assessment focuses on avoiding engagement with entities that contradict American principles, such as drug traffickers or parties with anti-American beliefs.
Overall, these scrutiny measures present challenges for nonprofit organizations managing projects that may intersect with the ideological boundaries set by the Trump administration.
