United States: President Donald Trump has initiated another round of federal budget cuts, this time affecting an international media agency, public libraries, and efforts to address homelessness. 

On Friday, March 14, the president signed an executive order that reduces funding for seven federal organizations. These include the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, the US Agency for Global Media, the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars (part of the Smithsonian Institution), the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the US Interagency Council on Homelessness, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund, and the Minority Business Development Agency. 

Following the announcement, the American Library Association strongly opposed the decision, urging the president to reconsider what it called a “short-sighted” move. 

“By eliminating the only federal entity dedicated to supporting libraries, this executive order severely weakens one of America’s most valued and trusted institutions. Libraries offer critical services such as summer reading programs for children, braille books for visually impaired individuals, and business development resources for entrepreneurs,” the association stated, as reported by USA Today. 

Why is Trump Cutting Funds for These Agencies? 

According to the executive order, Trump identified these agencies as “unnecessary.” 

A White House fact sheet explained that the Department of Government Efficiency, led by billionaire Elon Musk, advised these budget reductions. 

“Eliminating these agencies will reduce government spending, save taxpayer money, and streamline federal priorities,” the statement read. 

When contacted for further comments, the Trump administration did not immediately respond. 

What is the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service? 

The Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service helps resolve labor-management conflicts. It provides mediation, training, and dispute-resolution services to federal agencies and private organizations. For example, if a labor union and an agency cannot agree on a workplace issue, they may seek mediation from this agency. 

This service has existed since 1947, as per USA Today. 

What is the US Agency for Global Media? 

The US Agency for Global Media oversees international, non-military broadcasting. It operates six media networks, including Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Radio Free Asia, the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, the Middle East Broadcasting Networks, and the Open Technology Fund. 

These networks deliver news in 64 languages and reach over 427 million people worldwide. 

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the budget cut, stating, “President Trump is making government more efficient. American taxpayers should not be funding anti-American propaganda under the guise of journalism.” 

The agency was originally established in 1994 as the Broadcasting Board of Governors before being renamed in 2018. 

What is the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars? 

Commonly known as the Wilson Center, this institution conducts research and provides nonpartisan advice on global issues to policymakers, as per USA Today. 

It runs over 20 programs aimed at fostering international understanding and addressing key global challenges. The center also hosts public events to educate citizens about world affairs and history. 

Founded in 1968, it was created in honor of President Woodrow Wilson. 

What is the Institute of Museum and Library Services? 

This agency funds museums, libraries, and archives across the US through grants, research, and policy initiatives. 

For the 2024 fiscal year, it had a budget of over USD 294 million. Of this, $266.7 million was allocated to support museums and libraries nationwide. 

The agency was established in 1996. 

What is the US Interagency Council on Homelessness? 

This council coordinates federal efforts to combat homelessness. It partners with 19 government agencies, including the Departments of Education, Defense, Transportation, and Labor, to create strategies and solutions. 

The council was founded in 1987 under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. 

What is the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund? 

Part of the US Department of the Treasury, this fund promotes economic growth in underserved communities. It provides loans, investments, and financial services to support local economic development, according to reports by USA Today. 

One of its major programs offers funding and technical assistance to financial institutions that serve struggling communities. 

This fund was established in 1994 under the Riegle Community Development and Regulatory Improvement Act. 

What is the Minority Business Development Agency? 

The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) fosters the growth of minority-owned businesses. It provides technical assistance, funding access, and strategic support to help these enterprises expand. 

A minority business enterprise (MBE) is a company that is at least 51% owned or managed by an individual from a recognized minority group, such as Black, Hispanic, Asian-Pacific, Asian-Indian, or Native American communities. 

During the 2023 fiscal year, the MBDA helped minority businesses secure $1.5 billion in capital and created 19,000 jobs. 

The agency was originally established in 1969 under President Richard Nixon as the Office of Minority Business Enterprise.