The Vatican’s charity organization has expressed strong disapproval of the U.S. government’s recent decision to significantly cut funding for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Cardinal Michael Czerny, a prominent figure in Pope Francis’ administration and head of the Vatican office overseeing humanitarian efforts, emphasized the moral obligation to care for the vulnerable as the Trump administration initiates its governance.
In a statement released on Monday, Caritas, the Vatican’s charity arm, warned that millions could face dire consequences, including death and severe poverty, due to the U.S. decision to halt USAID funding. Cardinal Czerny highlighted that USAID plays a crucial role in international humanitarian efforts, managing over $40 billion in funding in 2023, which constitutes approximately 40% of the global aid budget.
The cuts are part of a broader initiative led by the Trump administration and its allies, including billionaire Elon Musk, to challenge federal operations. A sweeping funding freeze has led to the suspension of many of USAID’s global programs. Although a federal judge recently intervened to temporarily block the removal of thousands of agency staff, the future of USAID remains uncertain.
Czerny acknowledged that while new administrations have the right to review and reform foreign aid budgets, dismantling an agency with existing commitments raises ethical concerns. He stated, “To break commitments is a serious thing,” urging for a more measured approach that allows for adequate planning and transition to alternative funding sources.
Caritas has called on global leaders to pressure the U.S. administration to reverse its decision, arguing that halting USAID funding could jeopardize essential services and destabilize regions that rely heavily on this support. The organization insists that the cuts will undermine years of progress in humanitarian and development assistance, potentially condemning millions to poverty.
Czerny also noted that the budget for USAID, while substantial, represents less than one percent of the U.S. gross domestic product, which is a fraction of the biblical expectation to contribute 10% of one’s income to support others. He pointed out that many of the aid programs targeted for cuts have been criticized for promoting ideologies that conflict with Catholic teachings, suggesting that reforming these programs rather than eliminating them would be a more effective solution.
The Vatican’s concerns extend beyond foreign aid cuts to the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which have led to thousands of arrests and detentions, including at Guantanamo Bay. Czerny described the crackdown on undocumented migrants as a harmful approach to justice and administration, expressing sorrow for those who have become more vulnerable due to these measures.
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has also voiced its concerns, describing the administration’s focus on immigration, foreign aid, and environmental issues as troubling and detrimental to the most vulnerable populations. Pope Francis has consistently advocated for the protection and integration of migrants, urging nations to extend their support within their capacities.
As the situation unfolds, the Vatican and various humanitarian organizations continue to advocate for a compassionate approach to both foreign aid and immigration, emphasizing the need for policies that reflect Christian values of care and support for those in need.