Indian-American Sonali Korde took the oath of office as assistant to the Administrator of USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance or BHA on Monday. With this move, she stepped into a significant role at the forefront of international disaster response and humanitarian aid efforts.
As the lead for the US Government’s response to global hazards and humanitarian needs, the BHA plays a crucial role in monitoring, mitigating, and responding to crises worldwide.
Sonali Korde brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having most recently served as Deputy to the US Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues, where she led diplomatic efforts to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
In a statement, USAID Administrator Samantha Power asserted the toughest job at USAID is “leading the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance” in view of escalating “global conflict, climate-driven disasters, and displacement”. Subsequently, all these factors are posing challenge as “the demand for aid is dramatically outpacing our ability to provide it”.
Power appreciated Sonali’s Congressional connections and her unique abilities to navigate bureaucracy, mount efficient responses, control budget, advocate for needy people, cultivate, nurture, and empower teams to step up and meet the moment.
Korde’s parents instilled Indian values and a deep appreciation for global issues and a strong sense of justice in her. Her track record includes significant contributions to emergency responses, such as the Ebola outbreak in Eastern Congo and the coordination of the Covid response efforts.
With extensive experience in legislative affairs, national security policy, global health, and humanitarian aid, Korde is well-equipped to lead the BHA. Her previous roles at USAID, including Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator, have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the agency’s operations and priorities.
With a Master’s degree in International Relations from Yale University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from New York University, Korde brings a strong academic background to her role, complementing her extensive practical experience in humanitarian aid and global affairs.
