Iranian Americans for Liberty has consistently urged the U.S. government to reevaluate and cut funding for NGOs, particularly those financed through the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and similar state-backed organizations. These organizations have repeatedly failed to achieve their stated goals of promoting democracy and human rights, instead strengthening oppressive regimes like the Islamic Republic of Iran and other corrupt regimes in the Middle East. This failure stems from a combination of incompetence, self-enrichment, nepotism, and misaligned priorities that waste U.S. taxpayer dollars while undermining American interests. With the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), we are optimistic that the incoming Trump administration will prioritize cutting funding to these ineffective organizations. Below, we outline the reasons behind our position:
- NGO Failures in Weakening the Iranian Regime
Many of these state-funded NGOs claim to promote democracy, human rights, and transparency in Iran. However, the reality on the ground paints a starkly different picture. These organizations have failed to challenge the regime effectively, as evidenced by the continued suppression of uprisings in 2009, 2017, 2019, and 2022. Instead, they have been perceived by Iranians as opportunistic entities, enriching their founders rather than fostering real change. The regime remains as entrenched as ever, executing record numbers of political prisoners and dissenters while maintaining a firm hold on power. To the extent that the Islamic regime has weakened, the weakening has been driven by the the regime’s economic problems and corruption as well as the US economic sanctions, particularly the ones imposed during President Trump’s first term. The state-funded NGOs have not been able to weaken the Islamic Republic regime in any meaningful way.
- An Ecosystem of Exploitation
This network of state-funded NGOs has created an ecosystem where individuals profit from U.S. taxpayer dollars under the guise of activism. These individuals and organizations, often disconnected from the realities within Iran, leverage their platforms to secure funding and prominence for personal gain. Their lack of credibility among Iranians has not only diminished their effectiveness but also alienated the very people they claim to represent.
- Anti-American Narratives and Misaligned Values
Alarmingly, some of these NGOs and their affiliates have promoted anti-American narratives and policies that run counter to U.S. national interests. Instead of fostering freedom and democracy, they have amplified rhetoric that undermines America’s global standing and strengthens the regime’s propaganda machine.
- Wasting U.S. Taxpayer Dollars
This misuse of taxpayer money is a direct affront to U.S. national interests. Funds meant to advance democracy are instead fueling ineffective programs that fail to resonate with the Iranian public. Worse, they often support initiatives that inadvertently bolster the regime’s narrative or deepen divides within the Iranian diaspora.
- The Role of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
The newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) presents a unique opportunity to address this waste. By reassessing and cutting funding to ineffective NGOs and eliminating grants distributed by entities like the NED, NDI, and the Department of State, DOGE can save billions of dollars annually. These funds can then be redirected to initiatives that genuinely serve U.S. interests and support freedom-loving people worldwide.
A Path Forward
We call on DOGE to take immediate and decisive action to terminate funding for NGOs that fail to deliver measurable results. A robust review of existing grants and programs must be undertaken, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly and effectively. This is not just a matter of fiscal responsibility—it is a moral imperative to ensure that U.S. resources are used to support freedom, democracy, and the interests of the American people.
By prioritizing accountability and cutting ineffective funding streams, DOGE can lead the way in fostering a more responsible and impactful U.S. foreign policy. Iranian Americans for Liberty remains committed to advocating for policies that promote liberty and personal freedom across the world while protecting U.S. national interests.
