Three US aid workers were abruptly dismissed while providing critical humanitarian assistance in Myanmar’s earthquake-ravaged regions, according to a former USAID official, raising concerns about the effectiveness of disaster response efforts in the area.
The dismissals came amid ongoing relief operations following a devastating earthquake that has claimed over 3,300 lives in Myanmar, highlighting the challenges facing humanitarian aid delivery in crisis situations.
“This team is working incredibly hard, focused on getting humanitarian aid to those in need. To get news of your imminent termination — how can that not be demoralizing?” said Marcia Wong, former deputy administrator of USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance, in comments reported by TBS News.
The incident occurs against the backdrop of significant cuts to USAID funding and staffing implemented during the Trump administration, which aimed to reduce what was perceived as wasteful spending. These reductions have substantially impacted the agency’s ability to respond effectively to humanitarian emergencies.
While the United States has pledged $9 million in aid to Myanmar, other nations including China, Russia, and India have demonstrated more robust responses to the crisis. The contrast in international aid efforts has become particularly apparent in recent disaster relief operations.
The Department of Government Efficiency’s role in reducing funding and dismissing federal contractors has further complicated USAID’s operational capacity, affecting its ability to maintain consistent humanitarian assistance in crisis zones.
The sudden termination of aid workers during active relief operations has raised questions about the future of US humanitarian response capabilities and the need for more sustainable approaches to disaster relief efforts.