Handicap International is sounded the alarm over the “disastrous” impact of reduced international aid; it warns that cutbacks in aid from various countries endanger millions, especially the most vulnerable persons.
Despite an unprecedented need for international assistance due to conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Congo, many countries are slashing their aid programmes, Handicap International notes.
It points to the United States freezing funds for USAID and the European Union cutting €2 billion from its development budget. The new Belgian government also plans to reduce its development cooperation budget by 25%.
The cuts have severe implications for Handicap International’s relief efforts. Dozens of projects have halted due to the freeze in US funding, directly affecting hundreds of thousands of people and having an indirect impact on millions more.
People with disabilities, numbering 1.3 billion worldwide, are hit hardest, according to the organisation, which is urging governments to take responsibility.
“These cuts come at a time when demand for aid is historically high. We cannot afford to take a step back now,” says Antoine Sépulchre, director of Handicap International Belgium.
“The consequences for millions of people, especially the most vulnerable, are disastrous,” he adds.
