The human cost of the U.S. aid cuts [GTS Global Study]

The dramatic cuts to US aid, coming on top of already declining humanitarian funding have put global humanitarian response into crisis. GTS has worked with their inspiring network of partners to speak to communities in 10 countries and understand how this crisis is affecting them.Their insights shed light on the profound consequences of this decision, illustrating not only the ongoing struggles faced by affected communities but also the resilience they demonstrate in the face of adversity.

USAID Is Gone, but We Remain: Challenges and Opportunities for Civil Society 

In February, the CSO network “Civic Initiatives of Ukraine” and Open Space Works Ukraine conducted a rapid study on the impact of the sudden termination of USAID funding on Ukraine’s civil society. The results confirmed what many had anticipated—this was a major challenge for numerous organizations. However, the study also uncovered a wealth of innovative ideas on how to move forward, adapt, and, most importantly, learn from the situation to become stronger and more resilient.That’s why we are continuing this discussion and invite you to a live Open Space meeting in Kyiv to explore solutions together.

The Impact of USAID Funding Freeze on War-Affected Communities 

Ground Truth Solutions, together with its partners, aims to amplify the voices of those on the frontline of this financial crisis, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society organizations (CSOs), local researchers, and, most importantly, the communities most affected by funding cuts. This project seeks to elevate the voices of those directly impacted in various countries by collecting their personal testimonies and experiences.

The impact of the suspension of USAID funding on Ukrainian CSOs

On February 17, 2025, Open Space Works Ukraine, in collaboration with the CSO network “Civic Initiatives of Ukraine,” conducted a rapid study on the impact of the sudden termination of USAID funding on civil society organizations in Ukraine. A survey of 73 organizations revealed that most of them faced severe financial difficulties, leading to staff reductions, program suspensions, and the search for alternative funding sources.

DevDrinks: Development without USAID

DevDrinks - regular informal meetings for professionals working in the humanitarian and development sector, hosted by Open Space Works Ukraine.