USAID International Conservation - Funding Cancelled
Tracker entry and action guide
Updated:
Jun 1, 2025
Worldwide
Summary
The Trump Administration illegally dismantled USAID and cancelled congressionally approved funding for international conservation. These cuts are potentially catastrophic for global biodiversity.
Latest Updates
What's Happening
- Global Reach: Through USAID, the US provided critical funding to over 5,000 international conservation initiatives ($375 million in 2023).
- Project Examples: Examples of USAID funded projects included efforts to combat illegal wildlife trafficking in Southeast Asia, preserve forest ecosystems in the Congo Basin, and protect marine biodiversity in the Coral Triangle.
- Loss of Leadership: The cuts end decades of U.S. leadership in global biodiversity protection, leaving critical habitats and endangered species with much less international support.
Current Status
- A judge ruled that the dismantling of USAID was unconstitutional but it doesn't look like the administration has unfrozen grant funding.
How To Help
- We recommend supporting nonprofits like World Wildlife Fund that have been leaders in international conservation fundraising and that partner with local efforts to protect biodiversity.
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