The Devastating Impact of Mass Layoffs: A Former USAID Employee Speaks Out

On March 3, 2025, the federal government carried out a wave of mass layoffs, impacting numerous employees across various agencies, including the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Among those affected was Peter Kerndt, a former senior tuberculosis (TB) and HIV medical advisor who had dedicated his career to combating these diseases globally. The layoffs have sent shockwaves through the public health community, with many expressing deep concern over the consequences of such drastic cuts. Kerndt, in a heartfelt reaction to his termination, described the situation as "devastating," emphasizing that "lives are being lost" as a result of these actions. His words underscore the human cost of these layoffs and the potential long-term damage to critical global health initiatives.

A Career Dedicated to Saving Lives

Peter Kerndt’s work with USAID was more than just a job; it was a mission. As a senior medical advisor specializing in tuberculosis and HIV, he played a pivotal role in shaping and implementing programs that saved countless lives around the world. Tuberculosis and HIV are two of the deadliest infectious diseases globally, and Kerndt’s expertise was instrumental in addressing these epidemics, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to healthcare is limited. His contributions included developing strategies to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, as well as advocating for increased funding and resources to combat these diseases. Kerndt’s dedication to public health was widely respected, and his sudden removal from USAID has left many questioning the rationale behind such a decision.

The Ripple Effects of Mass Layoffs

The layoffs at USAID are part of a broader trend of staff reductions across the federal government, raising concerns about the impact on critical programs and services. For an agency like USAID, which is tasked with addressing global development challenges, including health crises, the loss of experienced personnel like Kerndt is particularly alarming. These layoffs disrupt ongoing projects, hinder collaboration with international partners, and undermine the agency’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies. The dismissal of experts who have spent years building relationships and accumulating knowledge is not just a personal loss but also a blow to the collective capacity of the organization.

The Human Toll of Political Decisions

Kerndt’s firing and the mass layoffs at USAID have sparked outrage and frustration among current and former employees, who view these actions as short-sighted and harmful. Many have pointed out that the layoffs appear to be politically motivated, targeting employees who have dedicated their careers to public service. The sudden termination of experienced professionals like Kerndt raises questions about the priorities of the agency and the broader administration. Critics argue that such decisions not only harm individual employees but also weaken the government’s ability to address pressing global challenges.

A Call to Action for Global Health

The layoffs at USAID have also drawn attention to the importance of sustained investment in global health initiatives. Diseases like tuberculosis and HIV know no borders, and the work of experts like Peter Kerndt is vital to preventing the spread of these diseases and saving lives. The sudden disruption of this work due to layoffs risks undoing years of progress and leaving vulnerable populations without the support they need. Kerndt’s story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of political decisions and the need for a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to global health.

The Uncertain Future of Global Development

As the federal government continues with its mass layoffs, the future of global development efforts hangs in the balance. The loss of experienced professionals like Peter Kerndt leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, particularly at a time when the world is facing numerous challenges, from pandemics to climate change. The layoffs at USAID highlight the importance of protecting and investing in the people who are on the front lines of these efforts. Without their expertise and dedication, the progress made in global health and development over the years may be at risk of unraveling.