“An open declaration of war” and “an existential threat” — this is how leaders at international NGOs and other U.S. nonprofits are describing the environment under the Trump administration.
The administration’s antagonistic approach to nonprofits is causing deep anxiety in the sector. Insiders told Devex that its actions are creating an environment where many organizations are worried about advocating loudly for particular causes or criticizing the administration.
A deluge of announcements with unclear implications and threats against those who are ideologically opposed to President Donald Trump’s agenda is leading some organizations to self-censor. However, organizations are fighting back through collective action, such as information sharing and joint letters, in the hope that there is safety in numbers.