The Alliance for International Exchange, on behalf of its more than 90 U.S.-based members who implement international exchange programs, and in conjunction with NAFSA and the Forum on Education Abroad, is launching a campaign to urge Members of Congress to demand that the U.S. Department of State lift the freeze on international exchange funding.
The Department of State still has not lifted what was described as a 15-day temporary pause of all international exchange program funding that went into effect on Wednesday, February 12. This pause has paralyzed an array of time-honored exchange programs that enhance American safety, security, and prosperity.
This action risks the health, safety, and future of the more than 12,500 American youth, students, and professionals who are currently abroad or who have plans to be abroad in the next six months. It also shuts off funding for U.S. programs now hosting more than 7,400 youth, students, and professionals in American communities from around the world.
We encourage all exchange champions take action today and urge Congress to support thousands of American students and communities by contacting the U.S. Department of State to demand that funding be turned back on for international exchange programs.