USAID Staff Reduction in Afghanistan: Risks and Concerns

Staff Reductions

In 2022, USAID reduced its expatriate staff in Afghanistan by 39%, from approximately 114 to 70. This decision was made in response to a directive from the Secretary of State and Ambassador, but it was not reversed despite holds placed by Congress.

• Downsizing: The reduction in staff was part of a broader downsizing effort aimed at reducing USAID’s presence in Afghanistan.
• Impact on Programs: The reduced staff levels had significant implications for USAID programs in Afghanistan, which were already facing challenges due to the country’s fragile security situation and economic instability.

Risk Assessment

Despite concerns from mission officials, internal assessments identified risks associated with the reduction of expatriate staff. However, these assessments did not fully identify and assess the risks associated with program cuts that could impact the sustainability of U.S. investments in Afghanistan.

• Lack of Comprehensive Risk Assessment: The mission’s risk assessment process lacked key aspects of a comprehensive evaluation, including identifying all programs being proposed for retention, reduction, or elimination.
• Insufficient Analysis of Program Cuts: The assessments did not assess the level of risk or potential impact of each program cut, nor provide strategies for addressing those risks.

Sustainability Concerns

The mission’s focus on sustainability was a key factor in achieving USAID’s goals in Afghanistan. However, the effects of program cuts on sustainability were not fully assessed before sending the mission posture adjustment CNs to Congress.

• Impact on Long-term Goals: The reduction in staff and programs had significant implications for USAID’s long-term goals in Afghanistan, including its ability to promote economic development and stability.
• Consequences of Program Cuts: The program cuts could have far-reaching consequences for the people of Afghanistan, who rely heavily on USAID assistance for basic services such as healthcare and education.

Concerns from Staff

Mission staff, including the mission director and other officials, expressed concerns about the increased risk due to staffing reductions. A survey conducted by the Office of Inspector General found that only a minority of respondents believed successful monitoring and oversight of the mission’s portfolio was likely after the posture adjustment.

• Staff Morale: The reduction in staff and programs had significant implications for staff morale and motivation, which could further exacerbate the challenges facing USAID’s mission in Afghanistan.
• Effectiveness of Programs: The program cuts could also have a negative impact on the effectiveness of USAID’s programs in Afghanistan, which were already facing significant challenges due to the country’s fragile security situation.