In this repost of a report on the devastating impact of funding cuts on LGBTQI individuals, we highlight how LBQ+ women, particularly those in the Global South, are disproportionately affected. These women face compounded discrimination due to the intersection of lesbophobia, patriarchy, and misogyny, often risking their lives to access the limited resources that remain.
On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order placing a 90-day freeze on U.S. foreign assistance to developing countries. The order, positioned as a review of aid efficiency, has had devastating consequences for marginalized communities worldwide—especially LGBTQI+ people.
Within days, LGBTQI+ organizations dependent on U.S. funding began receiving stop-work orders, forcing them to halt vital programs overnight. By February 7, some were issued full termination notices, cutting off lifelines that sustained advocacy, health care, legal support, and economic empowerment.
LGBTQI+ Funding Cuts: Organizations on the Brink
LGBTQI+ organizations face unique funding challenges—they are often unable to raise money locally due to criminalization, stigma, and exclusion from traditional funding sources. Unlike other sectors that may find alternative backing, many LGBTQI+ groups have no fallback.
The Immediate Impact includes;
Programs shut down—Organizations providing support to LGBTQI+ communities have been forced to close.
Health services suspended—HIV treatment, mental health care, and emergency support programs have been cut off.
Shelters closed—Displaced LGBTQI+ people are left without housing or safety networks.
Job training & economic support halted—Without income opportunities, many LGBTQI+ individuals face increased vulnerability to violence and exploitation.
Escalating threats & violence—With reduced legal aid and advocacy, LGBTQI+ people face heightened risks of criminalization, attacks, and exclusion.
A Northern Nigerian LGBTQI+ Rights Advocate Speaks Out
Our organization, which provides sexual and reproductive health services to LGBTQI+ people in Northern Nigeria, has been devastated by this funding freeze. We work in a region where LGBTQI+ people already face high levels of discrimination, and many of our beneficiaries rely on us for essential health care and safe spaces.
Without funding, our HIV prevention program has stalled. We have been forced to lay off staff, cancel awareness campaigns, and shut down our weekly medical outreach. The loss is more than just financial—it’s about lives. Our community members are already at the margins, and this setback pushes them further into harm’s way.
— Executive Director, Northern Nigeria (Name Withheld for Safety)
The Global Numbers: A Rapidly Escalating Crisis (from Outright International)
A rapid assessment by Outright International found:
72 organizations in 35 countries have had to lay off staff or shut down entirely.
55 organizations in 28 countries have stopped violence prevention work.
38 organizations in 16 countries have lost funding for economic inclusion projects.
30 organizations in 17 countries have lost legal aid support for LGBTQI+ people.
13 organizations in 9 countries had to close shelters for displaced LGBTQI+ individuals.
Activists across the globe are sounding the alarm:
We are also afraid that this move will embolden and inspire other far-right governments to follow a similar path, further jeopardizing LGBTQI+ rights and advocacy efforts globally
– Activist from Southeast Asia
[There will be] deaths, more intolerance against LGBTQI+ persons, and emboldened actions such as further criminalization and arrests.
– LGBTQI+ Advocate from Africa
Why This Matters More Than Ever
The U.S. government played a critical role in advancing LGBTQI+ rights and access to services worldwide. Over the last 15 years, funding from USAID and the U.S. State Department has ensured:
Legal aid for LGBTQI+ asylum seekers & displaced persons.
Healthcare & mental health support for LGBTQI+ individuals.
Community centers and safe spaces for LGBTQI+ youth.
Economic empowerment programs to help LGBTQI+ people find stable employment.
The loss of this support is catastrophic. LGBTQI+ people in some regions have no alternative funding sources. In places where LGBTQI+ identities are criminalized, this aid wasn’t just helpful—it was life-saving.
What Happens Next?
The LGBTQI+ community worldwide is resilient. Activists, organizations, and allies are rallying to find new ways to continue their essential work—but they can’t do it alone.
How You Can Help:
Support LGBTQI+ organizations directly. Many are setting up emergency relief funds.
Raise awareness—share this information so more people understand what’s happening.
Advocate for policymakers to restore funding and protect LGBTQI+ rights globally.
This is not just about aid—it’s about human lives, dignity, and justice. The fight continues, and we need to stand together.
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