USAID begins global staff reduction, places 1,600 on administrative leave

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has placed at least 1,600 employees on administrative leave as part of a major workforce reduction, the Agency announced late Sunday.

The decision, which took effect at 11:59 p.m. EST on February 23, 2025, affects staff worldwide, with the majority based in the United States.

In a statement entitled “Notification of Administrative Leave” posted on its official website, USAID confirmed that all direct-hire personnel, except for those handling mission-critical functions, core leadership roles, or specially-designated programs, were placed on leave.

“As of 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 23, 2025, all USAID direct hire personnel, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and/or specially designated programs, will be placed on administrative leave globally,” the statement read.

The Agency also announced the start of a formal Reduction-in-Force process, targeting approximately 1,600 employees stationed in the United States.

Read also: USAID to lay off 2000 staff and put most others on administrative leave

Affected staff received direct notifications detailing their employment status, benefits, and available options moving forward.

“Individuals that are impacted will receive specific notifications on February 23, 2025, with further instructions and information about their benefits and rights,” the Agency stated.

Despite the sweeping changes, USAID emphasised that a select group of essential personnel would continue operations.

These employees, identified by the Agency’s leadership, were expected to be informed by 5 p.m. EST on February 23.

The impact of the decision extends to USAID’s overseas staff, many of whom now face uncertain futures.

To ease the transition, USAID has introduced a voluntary, Agency-funded return travel program for personnel stationed abroad.

The Agency assured staff that they would retain access to essential systems and diplomatic support until their return.

“USAID is committed to keeping its overseas personnel safe. Until they return home, personnel will retain access to Agency systems and to diplomatic and other resources,” the statement noted.

Additionally, the Agency plans to provide logistical support in the coming week, guiding staff on how to retrieve personal items from former workspaces and return government-issued devices.

For employees without system access, USAID encouraged regular visits to its official website for ongoing updates and reiterated its commitment to maintaining clear communication through official channels.

This major staff reduction comes amid growing concerns about the future of U.S. foreign aid programs, particularly in light of recent political shifts and policy changes.