Washington, D.C. — February 5, 2025
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced that, effective Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 PM (EST), all direct-hire personnel worldwide will be placed on administrative leave. Exceptions will be made only for essential staff handling mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs, the agency said in a notice published on its now-defunct website.
According to the statement, personnel designated as essential will be notified by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00 PM (EST).
Evacuations and Contract Terminations for Overseas Staff
For USAID personnel stationed outside the United States, the agency—working alongside U.S. embassies and the Department of State—is preparing a repatriation plan that includes return travel to the U.S. within 30 days and termination of contracts for locally and internationally hired staff whose roles are deemed non-essential.
However, the agency has indicated that case-by-case exceptions may be granted for extended stays based on personal, family, or safety concerns. Examples of such exceptions include:
- Dependents’ school schedules
- Medical conditions or pregnancy
- Mobility or security concerns
Further guidance on requesting exceptions is expected to be issued soon.
Unclear Future for USAID Operations
The announcement comes amid growing concerns about the agency’s future operations and raises questions about ongoing U.S. foreign aid programs. The scope of “mission-critical” functions and the long-term implications of these workforce reductions remain uncertain.
The notice concluded with a simple acknowledgment: “Thank you for your service.”
As of now, USAID leadership has not provided further details on what led to this unprecedented decision or whether it signals a broader restructuring of U.S. development assistance efforts.
