Yes, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by senior adviser Elon Musk, has terminated numerous federal contracts, including those related to Afghan refugee resettlement, with little to no prior warning. This action is part of a broader initiative to reduce government spending by canceling contracts and grants across various agencies. HigherGov Fortune
The abrupt cancellation of these contracts has significantly impacted organizations involved in refugee resettlement. For instance, World Relief received a notice from the U.S. Department of State instructing them to “stop all work” under their grant agreement, which provided initial resettlement support to newly arrived refugees. World Relief
Additionally, the State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration suspended funding to groups assisting refugees with housing, job placement, and other needs. This suspension affected about 26,494 refugees and recipients of Special Immigrant Visas, causing confusion and concern among resettlement agencies. AP News Reuters AP News
These funding cuts have left many Afghan refugees in precarious situations, struggling to afford basic necessities such as rent and utilities. Organizations like Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) have faced significant financial challenges, leading to staff layoffs and reduced support services for refugees. AP News The Washington Post
In summary, DOGE’s sudden termination of federal contracts has disrupted Afghan refugee resettlement efforts, leaving both resettlement agencies and refugees facing significant hardships.