Stop to US aid threatens humans rights. For the Council of Europe, it’s now up to Europe

Brussels – “The decision by the Administration of the United States of America to suspend international aid has a negative impact on millions of people around the world, including in Europe.” It is how Human Rights Commissioner Michael O’Flaherty opened his warning statement yesterday (Feb. 20), urging members of the Council of Europe to double down their efforts to fill the void left by Washington.

The US Agency for International Development sent 5 billion to Ukraine in 2024, supporting key initiatives in human rights and crucial support to civil society.

The void, he continues, has caused the loss of 25 percent of total funds allocated to NGOs active in Ukraine and neighboring countries, forcing them to halt critical operations such as health support for refugees. Key projects such as support for victims of war crimes and the protection of minorities, especially in Eastern Europe and the Balkans, risk disappearing altogether, while the crisis of the independent media sector, suffering without US funding, offers a golden opportunity for those “determined to suppress the truth or silence dissent.”

Also at risk are health system support programs, which respond to the outbreak of viral diseases, and organizations and entities that fight corruption, protecting younger or fragile democracies. O’Flaherty also points out how the withdrawal of US funds particularly threatens NGOs cooperating with the United Nations.

What should Europe do? The CoE calls for a robust response: coordination in rescuing vulnerable NGOs, preserving human rights projects, adjusting budgets already allocated, and — most importantly — increasing spending.

“Foreign aid is no act of charity. It is an investment in the values that unite us.” Europe must take the reins.