Impact of USAID Cuts on U.S. Response to Myanmar Earthquake
Recent cuts to USAID have left the U.S. unable to effectively respond to the Myanmar earthquake, with former officials citing a lack of support during a critical rescue period. Despite a pledge of $2 million in aid, logistics issues caused by cuts hinder essential disaster response capabilities. As current policies risk sidelining the U.S. in international aid, experts call for a reassessment of the country’s humanitarian strategy.
Recent foreign aid cuts have hindered the U.S. response to the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Myanmar, according to three former USAID officials. They emphasize that the cuts have sidelined the U.S. during a critical rescue window, potentially costing lives. One former mission director stated, “America has been on the sidelines” following the disaster, which has left thousands dead and missing.
A substantial U.S. response typically involves deploying Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DARTs), comprised of trained personnel and essential rescue equipment. However, due to budget cuts, these resources were not mobilized effectively after the earthquake struck, a situation unprecedented in U.S. disaster response history.
The U.S. State Department announced that a small advising team is en route to Myanmar but without the necessary capacity for on-ground rescues. They have pledged $2 million to humanitarian assistance, a markedly lower figure than what would’ve been typical during such disasters, as noted by the former officials.
Budget cuts inflicted by the Trump administration have critically impacted USAID’s operations, with significant personnel layoffs occurring the day of the earthquake. As former officials explain, the drastic reduction has resulted in logistical challenges in deploying rescue teams and equipment necessary for effective disaster response.
Despite the administration’s assertion that it can respond without a DART team, experts argue this is impractical for immediate rescues. Without trained personnel on the ground, essential rescues cannot occur efficiently, jeopardizing the survival of those trapped.
Further complicating matters, logistics contracts that would facilitate the rapid deployment of rescue units and necessary equipment have been canceled, highlighting a clear gap in the U.S. disaster relief system. Former officials assert that these systemic issues reflect a dangerous precedent of U.S. disengagement from international humanitarian efforts, with calls for the U.S. to reclaim its critical role in global disaster response.
The recent cuts to USAID have severely impaired the U.S. ability to respond to the Myanmar earthquake, resulting in missed opportunities during the crucial rescue period. The reduction in personnel and logistics capacity signifies a troubling trend in U.S. international aid, with significant consequences for disaster response efficiency. Moving forward, it is essential for the U.S. to address these systemic challenges to restore its role in global humanitarian efforts.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
