USAID employees can once again engage in public communications, but strict limitations remain in place regarding four controversial Trump-era executive orders. According to a report by Devex monitored by AkweyaTV, staff have been instructed to avoid any discussion of policies involving the federal hiring freeze, return-to-office mandates, a pause on foreign aid disbursements, and the rollback of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programmes.
Partners Too
This directive extends to USAID partners, who have been encouraged to follow suit. Public appearances and events remain permissible, provided these sensitive topics are not addressed.
In an email obtained by Devex, USAID’s internal communications director emphasised caution, urging employees to archive existing DEIA-related content and halt the creation of new material. The guidance has left many within the agency and its partners awaiting further instructions on navigating these restrictions.
The constraints stem from executive orders signed by President Trump earlier this week. One of the orders dismantled DEIA programmes across federal agencies, calling them “illegal” and mandating the shutdown of related offices, social media accounts, and training initiatives. Federal agencies were also instructed to identify and lay off DEIA staff by the end of January 2025.
From Progress to Pause
According to NPR, under the Biden administration, DEIA initiatives were championed as vital for building a workforce reflective of America’s diversity. Programmes aimed to reduce pay inequities, improve job access for underserved communities, and enhance government documents for inclusivity. However, Trump’s recent actions have halted this progress, reversing years of policy.
Trump’s executive orders have also sparked concerns over job security for federal employees associated with DEIA work. Acting on the orders, agencies like the U.S. Office of Personnel Management have begun placing DEIA staff on administrative leave and preparing plans for workforce reductions.
Critics, including former federal officials and DEIA advocates, argue that these measures undermine efforts to create equitable opportunities and will have long-lasting consequences on economic growth and social cohesion.
A Chilling Effect
The return of restrictions on public communications at USAID has added another layer of complexity for an agency already grappling with these changes. An earlier report by Devex revealed that USAID staff had been instructed to “pause all public communications” in light of the executive orders.
While USAID has not issued a public statement on the matter, the silence speaks volumes. For now, discretion remains paramount, and employees are left balancing their commitment to public service with the reality of navigating a drastically altered policy landscape.
The situation continues to evolve, but one thing is certain: the Biden administration’s vision of diversity and equity in governance has been firmly replaced with Trump’s emphasis on dismantling such programmes. As federal agencies work to comply with these orders, the fallout will undoubtedly reshape the future of public service in America and aid work around the world.
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