50,000 dev professionals reportedly unemployed in Bangladesh due to USAID funding cuts: Calls for immediate govt action

In response to widespread job losses in Bangladesh caused by global cuts in development assistance from the United States, the Association of Unemployed Development Professionals (AUDP) organised a press conference today (27 May) at the Dhaka Reporters' Unity. 

AUDP is a platform representing professionals who lost their jobs following the closure of USAID funded projects, and currently has over 600 members.

Speakers at the conference highlighted that following a Stop Work Order by the Trump administration on 20 January 2025, 55 out of 59 USAID projects in Bangladesh were shut down, resulting in the country losing approximately $700 million in development assistance, reads a press release. 

According to AUDP's estimates, more than 50,000 development professionals lost their jobs across NGOs and INGOs previously funded by USAID projects. However, in the absence of any official government data, these figures remain largely indicative, with AUDP suggesting that the actual number is likely to be even higher.

The speakers emphasised that development professionals have contributed to national economic growth by paying income taxes and participating in the market economy. They estimated that the resulting unemployment has led to a revenue loss of over Tk15 crore in income tax alone for the government.

Alal Uddin, a member of AUDP, said, "We, the development professionals, have dedicated our lives to bringing change to others. But today, our own lives are engulfed in darkness. I don't know how I will manage my children's education, my parents' medical expenses, and the daily needs of my family."

Kakoli Gomes, another member, added, "As a single mother of two daughters, I am struggling to make ends meet. My savings have nearly dried up. No one sees us. Government, please look at us. Save us."

Zinat Ara Afroze, convener of AUDP, presented a six-point demand on behalf of the association:

1. Formal recognition of the unemployment crisis caused by the USAID cuts and the contributions of development professionals.

2. A government led national survey to accurately determine the number of laid off development workers and prompt publication of the findings.

3. An economic impact assessment to evaluate the broader economic impacts of the crisis.

4. Amendments to the Income Tax Act 2023 to ensure tax refunds for laid-off development professionals for FY 2024- 2025 and waiver of advance income tax for FY 2025- 2026.

5. Development of a National Integrated Talent Retention Strategy to create employment opportunities for laid off professionals in the private, corporate, business, and investment sectors.

6. Immediate dialogue with AUDP to explore solutions and take necessary actions to overcome this crisis.