The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced that, effective Friday, February 7, 2025, at 7:59 a.m. (EAT), all direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally.
This directive excludes designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership roles, and specially designated programs.
According to USAID, essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 11:00 p.m. (EAT).
For USAID personnel stationed outside the United States, the agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is preparing a plan for their return travel. The agency will arrange and cover the costs for return travel to the United States within 30 days. Additionally, contracts for Personal Services Contractors (PSC) and Institutional Support Contractors (ISC) that are not deemed essential will be terminated.
USAID stated that exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, particularly for individuals facing personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other significant issues. The agency will also consider travel extensions based on dependents’ school schedules, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other critical circumstances.
The decision follows recommendations for closure of the agency from Elon Musk’s newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which had accused the agency of mismanagement and funding controversial programs.
USAID staffers were earlier this week instructed to work remotely and stay away from the agency’s Washington headquarters, signaling an effective shutdown. The move, first announced by Musk in a social media post, has sparked widespread concern among global aid organizations and lawmakers.
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