New U.S. Bureau Revamps Humanitarian Aid Strategy

The U.S. State Department has launched a new Bureau of Disaster and Humanitarian Response to manage crisis aid worldwide, with a $5.4 billion annual budget. Focused on life-saving efforts, the bureau supersedes the dismantled USAID, shifting away from broader social and climate projects.

The U.S. State Department has unveiled a Bureau of Disaster and Humanitarian Response, aimed at reshaping the American approach to global crises, officials announced on Friday. This strategic move follows a considerable restructuring of foreign aid initiated by the Trump administration.

Tasked with handling disaster response worldwide, the newly established bureau will operate with approximately 200 staff members across 12 global hubs, supported by an annual budget of $5.4 billion. The bureau's mission focuses specifically on life-saving assistance, steering clear of initiatives related to climate projects or social causes, an official said under anonymity.

Previously managed by the now-absorbed U.S. Agency for International Development, the bureau will also oversee global food security projects. While it won't act as a global 'policeman' or social safety net, it aims to prioritize aid to allies and partners in the U.S. national interest, stated the official. Heading the bureau will be Ryan Shrum, previously chief of staff to acting leader Jeremy Lewin.