The DOGE has canceled a $29 million project aimed at enhancing political stability in Bangladesh as part of broader cost-cutting measures. This decision follows President Trump’s comments regarding US non-involvement in Bangladesh’s political turmoil. Additional funding for other international projects has also been halted.
The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), under the Trump administration, has canceled numerous overseas spending projects, including a controversial $29 million initiative aimed at “strengthening the political landscape in Bangladesh.” This decision, part of cost-cutting measures to protect US taxpayer funds, was detailed in a recent post on X, where DOGE listed several other halted projects, such as $10 million for medical circumcision in Mozambique and $9.7 million for enterprise development among Cambodian youth.
The proposed Strengthening Political Landscape Project in Bangladesh was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and aimed to enhance political party capabilities and reduce political violence. The initiative was designed to empower political activists and citizens, fostering skills for effective leadership and peaceful conflict resolution.
The cancellation follows President Trump’s denial of US involvement in the political upheaval in Bangladesh, which saw the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid protests. During discussions with Prime Minister Modi, Trump emphasized that the situation aligns with India’s long-standing engagement, implicitly distancing the US from active participation in Bangladeshi affairs.
Relations between India and Bangladesh have deteriorated following Ms. Hasina’s departure amidst significant unrest. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, faces criticism for insufficient action against violent extremist groups targeting religious minorities.
In addition to the Bangladesh funding, DOGE has stopped other significant Biden-era allocations, including $22 million for voter turnout initiatives in India and $39 million for projects in Nepal focused on fiscal federalism and biodiversity conservation, reflecting a broader trend in reducing government spending.
The fiscal federalism program in Nepal, initiated after the 2015 constitution, established a three-tiered government system. It mandates that no expenditure is made without parliamentary approval, ensuring adherence to strict financial governance practices.
DOGE’s ongoing efforts signify a larger objective under the Trump administration to streamline governmental expenditures. Elon Musk, heading the DOGE initiative, has prioritized a thorough review of federal agency budgets to fulfill this mission and promote efficiency in public spending.
The Department of Government Efficiency has opted to cancel significant funding projects abroad, including a $29 million initiative for political stabilization in Bangladesh amidst rising budgetary scrutiny. This decision reflects a broader strategy to cut costs while distancing the US from international political interventions. As certain programs in various countries face elimination, the implications for diplomatic relations and domestic governance are yet to unfold.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
