The administration of US President Donald Trump is preparing major cuts in foreign aid. According to reports, it is going to stop federal funding for organisations working on gender identity, transgender rights or diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) policies abroad.

The new measure would expand previously imposed restrictions known as the "Mexico City Policy," which blocked federal funding for organizations involved in providing or promoting abortion. This time, however, the ban would also apply to projects and programs focused on gender equality, inclusion, and support for LGBTQ communities. It would affect not only NGOs, but also foreign governments or international agencies that use US grants.

According to Politico, the proposal has been presented to some non-profit organizations and partners, but has not yet been officially announced. Still, it is expected to be part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to limit the influence of diversity policies and so-called gender ideology in public life. Back in January 2025, the president issued an executive order requiring an end to DEI support within federal agencies.

Criticism from NGOs

The reaction of human rights and development organisations has been strong. They argue that a halt in funding would jeopardise projects in health care, HIV prevention, education and the protection of women and girls. Yet US foreign aid has long been one of the largest sources of funding for international programmes promoting equality and fundamental rights.

Critics point out that similar restrictions have already led to the suspension of over $1 million worth of grants in recent months. Dozens of projects focused on the LGBTQ community or promoting equality have been disrupted, sparking legal disputes and political tensions.

Possible legal obstacles

Legal experts expect that the new policy may also end up in the courts. Already in the summer of 2025, federal courts have ruled on similar disputes where agencies withheld grants for allegedly promoting "gender ideology." In several cases, they have been forced to restore funding. Thus, the measure may run into limits under U.S. law and international obligations.

Impact on foreign aid

The exact impact of the upcoming move will depend on the final rules. It is not yet clear whether the ban will apply only to health programmes or also to broader humanitarian and development projects. What is certain, however, is that the signal from Washington is causing concern in many organisations around the world.

If the administration does indeed implement an across-the-board funding ban, it could fundamentally change the face of US foreign aid. Programmes related to equality and inclusion would lose key support, with particularly noticeable consequences in regions where the US has long been a major donor in the areas of human rights and health care.

gnews.cz - GH