Jonathan, Narinjara News, 6 February 2025

President Trump has halted more than $39.5 million earmarked for human rights, democracy, and media advancement in Myanmar, as stated in a report by Human Rights Myanmar (HRM).

On February 6, HRM announced that President Trump had halted $39,547,146 in USAID funding that was initially allocated for promoting human rights, democracy, and media initiatives in Myanmar.

The $39 million provided by USAID encompasses $8 million for seven human rights defense projects, $30 million for nine democracy enhancement initiatives, and $1 million for two independent media support programs.

These resources are essential for groups opposing military governance and advancing democracy in Myanmar. They are regarded as promoting U.S. interests by supporting American values and opposing China’s authoritarian impact. HRM highlighted that an extended suspension would result in serious, lasting repercussions for Myanmar's pro-democracy movement.

The funding freeze has started to hinder essential programs.

Local organizations focused on human rights, democracy, and media—often working with constrained budgets—are compelled to shut down programs, terminate employees, and scale back vital services. Without prompt action, numerous organizations might not endure.

HRM also noted that once lost, skilled staff and successful projects would be hard, if not impossible, to revive. If the funding is not restored quickly, local partners might become too weakened to effectively absorb or apply the funds.

HRM stated that halting the funds would undo years of advancements in the struggle for human rights, democracy, and freedom of the press in Myanmar. An indefinite freeze could be devastating, risking financial ruin for organizations and dismantling civil society frameworks established over many years.

The freeze on USAID funding has stopped 34 initiatives in Myanmar.

Alongside initiatives for human rights and democracy, USAID has halted $22 million designated for humanitarian assistance, $36 million for agriculture, $22 million for healthcare, and $30 million for education.

These reductions fall under existing obligations and exclude new initiatives that were planned to start in 2025.

Of the existing commitments, $10 million was designated for tuberculosis and HIV initiatives, which now encounter an unpredictable future. The HRM indicated that these funding cuts would significantly affect Myanmar's marginalized communities.

The HRM is calling on the U.S. government to swiftly restore the funding and uphold its commitments to human rights and democracy in Myanmar.