The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is an independent agency of the United States federal government that is primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid and development assistance.
USAID’s programs are authorized by Congress in the Foreign Assistance Act, which Congress supplements through directions in annual funding appropriation acts and other legislation. As an official component of U.S. foreign policy, USAID operates subject to the guidance of the President, Secretary of State, and the National Security Council. USAID has missions in over 100 countries, primarily in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
Mission: On behalf of the American people, we promote and demonstrate democratic values abroad, and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world. In support of America’s foreign policy, the U.S. Agency for International Development leads the U.S. Government’s international development and disaster assistance through partnerships and investments that save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance, and help people emerge from humanitarian crises and progress beyond assistance.
Ukraine plays a critical role in United States Government efforts to help former Soviet countries establish democratic institutions and globally-integrated free market economies. To achieve its goal of creating a democratic, secure, and prosperous Ukraine, USAID partners with Ukrainians on participatory, transparent and accountable governance processes, broad-based resilient economic development, and improved access to health services. USAID also prioritizes efforts to counter trafficking in persons and support the Chornobyl Shelter Fund as part of a multi-donor international effort.