Kazakhstan calls for investigation into USAID's activities amid rising concerns over foreign influence

Kazakh authorities have been urged to investigate the activities of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in the country.

Majilis (parliament) deputy Magerram Magerramov called for a thorough investigation into USAID's operations, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

"We all understand that the periodic surge in the activity of certain groups under the slogans of 'sexual minority rights' is not driven by internal demand within our society, but by external influences," Magerramov emphasized.

He specifically referred to USAID's funding of $2 million to the "European International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Association" (ILGA-Europe), under the guise of "strengthening human rights and equality" in Central Asia.

Magerramov appealed to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Economy to scrutinize USAID’s activities in the country, particularly its financial support for various non-governmental organizations.

He highlighted "shocking details" regarding the agency's operations and expressed a growing demand within society for comprehensive reports on USAID’s financial activities.

The call has sparked concerns about foreign influence in Kazakhstan and its impact on the nation's social values.

To recap, USAID, which provides humanitarian aid globally, is facing significant uncertainty as the Trump administration pushes for cuts to government spending. USAID, which employs around 10,000 people, with two-thirds working abroad, has been informed that many of its staff will be placed on paid administrative leave.

Staff were instructed to remain available but prohibited from entering USAID buildings. The agency’s activities, such as providing medical aid, clearing landmines, and fighting epidemics, are critical in several parts of the world, including Ukraine and Africa.

The Trump administration, prioritizing budget cuts, has targeted USAID, with Elon Musk supporting its closure, claiming it is "beyond repair." This stance has drawn sharp criticism, particularly from Democrats, who argue that shutting down USAID would undermine US foreign policy and national security.

USAID, established in 1961, has a significant global presence, operating in over 60 countries. In fiscal year 2023, it managed over $40 billion in aid. Critics stress that dismantling USAID would harm vulnerable populations worldwide and erode America's ability to compete globally.

The future of USAID hangs in the balance as the Trump administration and its allies continue to push for cuts to its operations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev