Termination Notifications Sent to Employees

In a startling move, staff members at the U.S. Institute of Peace (USIP) were notified via email on Friday of their immediate termination, according to multiple sources who shared details with CBS News. The exact impact of these layoffs remains unclear, but reports suggest that a significant portion of the organization’s workforce, which includes around 300 employees, has been affected across various departments.

Context of the Terminations

This abrupt action aligns with ongoing conflicts between the USIP and the Trump administration, which has been accused of attempting to undermine the institute through funding freezes and board restructuring efforts. An executive order issued by President Trump in February sought to dismantle USIP, which has operated since its establishment by Congress in 1984 under President Ronald Reagan.

Details of the Announcement

According to a leaked email, one affected employee was told: “Dear [Employee], this letter is to inform you of a change in your employment status with United State Institute of Peace (sic).” The notification stated that their employment would conclude effective March 28, 2025.

Legal Challenges and Administration Response

Earlier this month, a federal judge denied a request for a temporary restraining order to stop the government’s intervention at USIP. U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell criticized the actions of government staff but did not halt the takeover. This ruling came amidst USIP’s claims that its dismantling constitutes an unlawful act.

George M. Foote, the outside counsel for USIP, expressed his dismay regarding the terminations, calling them “unconscionable and deeply troubling.” He asserted that the actions of the current administration are disrespectful to the dedicated employees of USIP, who strive for conflict resolution and peace-building globally.

Implications for the Organization

The recent staff terminations are part of a broader trend as the Trump administration seeks to implement significant changes to U.S. foreign policy, also evidenced by actions to dissolve the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Critics argue that the elimination of institutions like USIP undermines the ability to foster global peace and conflict resolution.

Government Perspective

In response to the developments at USIP, the White House emphasized its commitment to fiscal responsibility, with Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stating, “Taxpayers don’t want to spend $50 million per year on a publicly-funded ‘research institute’ that has failed to deliver peace.” She pointed out Trump’s initiatives to curb what they perceive as inefficiencies in the ongoing foreign policy landscape.