InterAction Warns of Policy’s Impact on Humanitarian Assistance

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 27, 2026 — The Trump Administration’s new Promoting Human Flourishing in U.S. foreign assistance policy, as currently structured, introduces barriers that make it more difficult for organizations to deliver timely lifesaving assistance to the neediest people around the world. At a moment when the Administration has emphasized the importance of rapid and effective humanitarian response, implementing partners must be able to respond quickly to disasters, provide lifesaving assistance, and operate with clarity and flexibility.

Federal law already contains long-standing restrictions on the use of taxpayer funds for abortion, and existing executive orders restrict federal funds for diversity, equity and inclusion and gender identity programs. The expanded policy goes beyond these provisions, placing new requirements on how organizations may use their own privately raised resources.

In doing so, it marks a significant departure from long-standing practice by conditioning participation in U.S. foreign assistance programs on an organization’s privately funded activities and internal policies.

This raises important questions for many in our community about how to best balance vague regulations with the ability to carry out mission-critical work.

InterAction recognizes and respects the diversity of views held by its membership on reproductive health and other sensitive topics. We remain united in our commitment to saving lives and upholding human dignity among people facing the greatest hardships around the world.

By imposing these conditions, the Administration risks reducing the number of experienced, trusted partners available to support U.S. humanitarian efforts. These organizations bring decades of technical expertise, local insight and proven capacity to respond rapidly, efficiently and transparently in the most challenging environments.

At a time when global needs are growing, policy decisions should strengthen – rather than limit – the ability of these partners to carry out their lifesaving work.

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InterAction unites and amplifies the voices of America’s leading humanitarian and development organizations committed to creating a safer, more prosperous world. Its members deliver lifesaving aid, protect vulnerable families, and advance human dignity around the globe.