Johns Hopkins University, one of the world’s leading institutions in medical and health research, is set to lay off more than 2,000 employees due to a significant reduction in foreign aid funding. The decision follows a major cut in financial support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), with the university losing $800 million in funding.
According to a report by CNN on Friday (March 14), the Maryland-based university announced on Thursday that the layoffs would impact 1,975 employees across 44 countries, along with an additional 247 employees in the United States. Nearly 100 more employees will face short-term layoffs.
Johns Hopkins stated that the loss of USAID funding is forcing the university to halt crucial programs both in Baltimore and internationally. These programs focus on maternal and child care, disease prevention, and access to clean drinking water, among other essential public health initiatives.
The cuts come as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to reduce federal spending on foreign aid, research, and development. As a result, Johns Hopkins University has become one of the most affected institutions.
Earlier in March, university president Ronald Daniels warned students and faculty about the financial strain, noting that nearly half of the institution’s funding last year came from federal sources. He expressed concerns that the budget cuts would severely impact students, researchers, and faculty members involved in global health and medical research initiatives.