USAID funding in NZ: Questions raised over foreign influence in research and policy

A recent episode of the ‘Missed Information’ podcast, featuring hosts Penny Marie, Anna McLoughlin, and Stephen Brunton, delved into the New Zealand operations of USAID, questioning its true role beyond “humanitarian aid”.

The discussion highlighted how USAID, the U.S. Agency for International Development, is perceived by some as a vehicle for geopolitical influence rather than purely philanthropic efforts.

The hosts explored claims that USAID has funded controversial projects, including “gender education programmes” and “diversity initiatives”, while also tying its activities to broader agendas like the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The conversation referenced both left- and right-wing media narratives, exposing polarised viewpoints on USAID’s priorities, with critics alleging misuse of taxpayer funds on ideological projects rather than essential humanitarian assistance.

The podcast also examined the extensive financial ties between U.S. government agencies and New Zealand institutions, particularly Auckland University and its business arm, UniServices.

The hosts revealed that millions of dollars in funding have been allocated from U.S. agencies such as the Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to support vaccine research, social programmes, and media-driven public health campaigns. They raised concerns about the transparency and motivations behind these investments, questioning why foreign governments are heavily involved in shaping policies and funding research in New Zealand.

The discussion underscored how public figures like Susie Wiles and Helen Petousis-Harris have been linked to funding from organisations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and pharmaceutical companies, raising further questions about conflicts of interest and the broader influence of global entities in domestic affairs.