Washington, D.C. – May 13, 2025
The ongoing changes in U.S. foreign assistance policy are having unprecedented impacts across the development sector, both domestically and internationally. These shifts are severely challenging members of the Society for International Development – United States (SID-US), disrupting operations, reshaping partnerships, and forcing an abrupt reevaluation of strategies. Many development professionals are experiencing not only curtailment in their work but also deep uncertainty in their careers. We stand with our members in this time of disruption and acknowledge both the professional and personal toll many are facing.
We know that our members bring crucial expertise that uplifts communities around the world. Their efforts contribute directly to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America by supporting partner countries to reduce poverty, improve health and education, foster economic growth, and promote stable, democratic governance. Through their dedication and innovation, SID-US members create solutions that enhance security and prosperity in America and globally.
Even amid the uncertainty of the past few months, SID-US recognizes there will be opportunities for its members. By tapping into our community’s collective strength, we can help navigate change and shape a resilient future for global development. We are committed to fostering connection, learning, and collaboration and to upholding the values of partnership and shared progress that can enable development to thrive in a shifting landscape.
For nearly seven decades, SID-US has served as a nonpartisan, non-lobbying “global town square” to convene practitioners, thought leaders, policymakers, and institutions dedicated to the advancement of sustainable, effective development. We recognize the right of any government to adjust its foreign assistance policies, and, as a nonpartisan organization, we are dedicated to building constructive relationships with all administrations, regardless of political affiliation. We do not advocate for specific policy or funding decisions. At the same time, we remain steadfast in our role as a trusted platform for dialogue, promoting knowledge exchange, and facilitating open communication and engagement with our members to ensure their voices are heard and represented.
Rooted in our 1981 Articles of Incorporation, our purpose is:
- To facilitate the national and international exchange of knowledge and experience concerning economic development and technical cooperation;
- To advance the science, processes, and art of economic development and technical cooperation through educational means exclusively, namely, through research, publication, and discussion.
- We take heart in the resilience, adaptability, and commitment of our members. SID-US is here to support you as you navigate change, identify new opportunities, and position yourselves and your organizations to continue delivering impact and value—both in the United States and overseas. We will continue to support learning, collaboration, and knowledge sharing. And we reaffirm our commitment to supporting individuals in the SID-US community through career fairs, mentoring, mental wellness events, and other initiatives designed to meet the moment.
SID-US remains your platform—for convening, for connection, and for collective progress. We invite all who are committed to the mission of international development to continue engaging with us as we move forward together.
-The SID-US Team & Board of Directors