In his blog, 'Soft Power at a Crossroads: The Implications of USAID's Closure,' Jovan Kurbalija, executive director of Diplo, explores the impact of the Trump administration's decision to shut down the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Founded in 1961, USAID was a cornerstone of American soft power, channelling billions in aid to promote global development and humanitarian relief.

Its closure marks a dramatic shift in US foreign policy, raising concerns about the future of American influence abroad. The decision to dismantle USAID came amid accusations of inefficiency and mismanagement, with figures like Elon Musk calling the agency corrupt and bloated.

The administration's plan to fold USAID's functions into the State Department aligned with Trump's 'America First' agenda, prioritising national interests over global development efforts. Yet, critics argue that this move undermines decades of diplomatic goodwill and leaves vulnerable populations without critical aid, from landmine clearance in Asia to refugee support in conflict zones.

Kurbalija indicates that the vacuum in the USA 'soft power' could be filled by other global actors including China, EU, India, Turkie, and Russia. He also questions the future of soft power itself-will persuasion and public digital diplomacy still matter in a world dominated by hard power and geopolitical competition? As the US steps back from its humanitarian role, the international balance of influence may enter an era of profound change.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.