Diaspora
America First” Policy Puts Global Health Progress In Jeopardy
The US Agency for International Development (USAID) has suspended health contracts worldwide, leaving critical healthcare programs and assistance in jeopardy.
The decision, part of a review aimed at aligning
foreign aid with the Trump administration’s “America First” policy, has resulted in the termination of more than 90% of global health
programs, including those addressing HIV, malaria, maternal health, and other vital services.
The sudden and widespread cuts have sparked
widespread concern among health experts and organizations, who warn that the move will have devastating consequences for millions of people worldwide.
“The US funding cuts are dismantling the system. HIV treatment is crumbling. TB services are collapsing… Lives are on the line,” said International AIDS Society President Beatriz Grinsztejn, whose organization is not directly affected by the cuts.
In South Africa, several of the largest US-funded HIV/AIDS programs have been informed that their funding will not resume, leaving vulnerable groups, including LGBT+ individuals and sex workers, without access to critical healthcare services.
A major global non-profit working on malaria and maternal and newborn health has also had most of its contracts cancelled.
The US State Department has remained tight-lipped about the criteria used for the terminations, and it remains unclear how many organizations worldwide have been affected.
However, documents reviewed by Reuters confirm that UNAIDS, the UN agency dedicated to tackling HIV and AIDS, has had its contract with USAID cancelled.
The move has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that the cuts will undermine global health progress and put millions of lives at risk.
“This is a devastating blow to global health efforts,” said a spokesperson for the Global Health Council. “The US has long been a leader in global health, and these cuts will have far-reaching consequences for some of
the world’s most vulnerable populations.”
In a surprising move, the United States has twice voted alongside Russia at the United Nations, marking a significant shift in the Trump administration’s stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This development has laid bare the growing rift between the US and its European allies.
The US and Russia opposed a European-drafted resolution condemning Moscow’s actions and supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity, which was passed by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) with 93 votes.
The US also voted against the resolution, alongside Russia, Israel, North Korea, Sudan, Belarus, Hungary, and 11 other states, with 65 abstentions.
In a separate vote at the UN Security Council, the US backed a resolution calling for an end to the conflict, but without criticizing Russia.
The resolution passed with 10 votes, but key US allies, including the UK, France, Denmark, Greece, and Slovenia, abstained after their attempts to amend the wording were vetoed.
The competing resolutions were tabled as French President Emmanuel Macron visited President Donald Trump at the White House, in an attempt to address their sharp differences over the war.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is also set to visit the US leader on Thursday.
The Trump administration’s change of stance on the war has upended the transatlantic alliance, with the US currying favor with Moscow and casting doubt on America’s long-term commitment to European security.
As Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa noted,”We need to reconfirm that the aggression should be condemned and discredited, not rewarded.”
The US’s acting envoy to the UN, Dorothy Camille Shea, described the US resolution as a “simple historic statement that looks forward, not backwards. A resolution focused on one simple idea: ending the war.”
However, this move has been seen as a significant departure from the US’s traditional stance on the conflict.Since Russia invaded Ukraine three years ago, the Security Council has been deadlocked by Russia’s veto power.
As a result, the UNGA has become the main forum for debating the war, although its resolutions are not legally binding for member states.
On behalf of Diaspora Watch and Excel Magazine International, we proudly celebrate Lady Gladys Afam, a distinguished executive of Excel DMV and Excel Global Media Group USA, on her special day!
May this birthday mark the beginning of an extraordinary year filled with unbridled joy, untamed adventures, and unforgettable memories. May your life be a testament to the power of laughter, love, and wonder.
As a remarkable teacher, master of ceremony, and inspiration to many, we salute your tireless dedication, passion, and impact. Your selflessness and commitment to empowering others have made a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.
Diaspora Watch: Unpacking Global Connections and Diasporic Experiences
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In a world where global connections are redefining identities, cultures, and nations, the 36th edition of Diaspora Watch delves into the complexities of transnationalism, cosmopolitanism, and creolization.
This edition brings together diverse perspectives on diaspora, from the experiences of African diasporic communities to the evolving notion of diaspora itself.
As we reflect on the changing landscapes of diaspora, we are reminded of the power of global connections in shaping our understanding of identity, culture, and belonging.
From Peter Obi’s advocacy for electoral transparency in Nigeria to the trailblazing leadership of Aisha Braveboy in Maryland politics, this edition of Diaspora Watch celebrates the achievements and contributions of diasporic communities worldwide.
We also examine the intricate relationships between diaspora, globalization, and power, as seen in the impact of USAID funds on terrorism, including Boko Haram, and the freezing of mineral exports in Malawi.
Furthermore, we explore the role of social media in transforming lives, as exemplified by Peller’s journey from carpentry to earning millions on TikTok.
Get your copy of Diaspora Watch’s 36th edition today and stay ahead of the curve on the latest news, trends, and analysis from around the world!
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- Diaspora Watch Vol, 36 – Unpacking Global Connections and Diasporic Experiences
America First” Policy Puts Global Health Progress In Jeopardy
Grenada PM Makes Passionate Plea For Climate Change Partnership At CARICOM Meeting
US Sides With Russia In UN Votes On Ukraine
Diaspora Watch 20th Edition (October 14-20, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Revolutionary mRNA Lung Cancer Vaccine Trial Offers New Hope To Thousands
