The wave of foreign aid cuts dominating headlines in 2024 is more than a budgetary concern — it is a direct blow to education for millions of children living through conflict, displacement, or crises. As world leaders gather in New York for the UN General Assembly, urgent action is needed to prevent an entire generation from being denied the right to learn.The situation is stark in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, where over 1.2 million Rohingya refugees reside. Thousands of learning centers were shut down earlier this year due to sudden funding losses, leaving nearly half a million children without access to education. Many are now at risk of child labor or early marriage.Globally, the numbers paint an alarming picture. By the end of 2024, one in six children—around 473 million—will be living in or fleeing conflict zones, while another 242 million face school disruptions caused by climate change. More than 85 million children in emergencies are already out of school, and shrinking aid budgets threaten to push millions more out in the near future. Projections indicate education funding could fall by $3.2 billion by 2026, nearly 25% less than in 2023.Local actors, including teachers, parents, and community groups, remain the first responders in crisis settings. Despite their resilience, many have been forced to close schools, reduce staff salaries, or overcrowd classrooms. Education is more than an individual right—it is a proven investment in health, peace, and economic stability.This crisis calls for political will, not just resources. Governments and donors must prioritize education and place local leadership at the heart of solutions. Communities know their needs best, and strengthening their role ensures more sustainable responses. Education is too important to be sidelined; millions of futures depend on it.
Foreign Aid Cuts Threaten Education for Millions of Children Worldwide
