US foreign aid freeze severely impacts local Moroccan associations, survey finds

A new independent survey conducted by MRA Mobilising for Rights Associates, a Rabat-based women’s rights NGO, has shed light on the immediate and damaging effects of the United States foreign aid freeze on local Moroccan associations.

The Quick Impact Survey was launched to assess the repercussions of the funding suspension, which was initiated on January 24, 2025, when the U.S. State Department issued a “stop work order” halting all humanitarian and development assistance programs worldwide.

The survey, conducted online between February 4 and February 16, was available in Arabic, French, and English. It targeted local Moroccan organizations, particularly those operating as subgrantees or in partnership with larger international entities that serve as primary recipients of U.S.-funded contracts or grants.

Out of 37 total respondents, 25 preferred to remain anonymous, with some organizations declining to participate due to fears of retaliation or concerns that speaking out could endanger their chances of securing future U.S. funding.

The findings paint a stark picture of the funding freeze’s immediate consequences. Many Moroccan NGOs reported serious disruptions to their operations, with 53 percent forced to cancel scheduled activities and 25 percent unable to pay staff salaries.

Others struggled to meet basic operational costs such as rent and utilities, while some were left without reimbursement for expenses incurred before and after the stop work order was issued. In addition, 22 percent of respondents indicated that their relationships with other local organizations or program beneficiaries had been adversely affected.

The freeze has left many organizations in limbo, as several respondents admitted they were unsure whether their previous or ongoing disbursements had been blocked. A lack of clear communication from prime recipients has compounded the confusion, leaving some NGOs to continue project work despite the risk of non-reimbursement and potential violations of the stop work order.

One survey participant highlighted the widespread damage caused by the sudden funding cut, stating, “This action has harmed many people.” Another respondent expressed frustration, noting that despite having a signed contract and obligated funding, their program had been brought to a standstill.

“We had a program that could have helped thousands of beneficiaries, providing direct support and long-term resilience. With implementation on hold, planned disbursements, training sessions, and community engagement have all been put on hold. This not only affects the beneficiaries but also disrupts relationships with local stakeholders.”

The survey also pointed to serious procedural failures in how the stop work order was implemented. Many respondents reported learning about the funding freeze through unofficial channels such as word of mouth or media reports rather than through direct and timely communication from their prime recipients.

Only 19 percent of respondents were informed about the decision immediately after it was issued on January 24 or 25, while others only became aware of it in the following weeks. One NGO reported contacting their prime recipient for clarification, only to be told the suspension was “just a rumor” and that they should continue working as planned.

Further complicating matters, U.S. federal employees responsible for foreign aid were reportedly ordered by the administration to cease all public communications, leaving many NGOs without any official guidance.

The closure of relevant agency offices, administrative leave for federal staff, and the furlough or termination of hundreds of contractors have all contributed to the lack of information provided to affected organizations.

A survey respondent voiced strong criticism, stating, “It is unacceptable for unilateral decisions to be taken on matters that involve binding financial obligations with organizations.” Another respondent echoed this sentiment, calling the situation “absolute nonsense” and demanding that the halted work be resumed immediately.

In light of these findings, MRA Mobilising for Rights Associates has called for an immediate reversal of the funding freeze to allow critical programs and disbursements to resume. The organization also stressed the need for contracting officers and prime contractors to provide complete, accurate, and timely information to local Moroccan associations about the funding situation.

Additionally, they urged civil society organizations, the media, and other stakeholders to continue monitoring and documenting the ongoing impact of the freeze and the transparency of related procedures.

As the situation unfolds, many Moroccan NGOs remain uncertain about their future, hoping for a resolution that will allow them to continue their essential work in humanitarian and development efforts across the country.