**Ukraine Seeks to Cut Costs with New Agency Modelled on US DOGE**
In a bid to reduce costs and increase efficiency, Ukraine is set to create its own version of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov made the announcement on July 18, citing the need for such an agency to evaluate government projects across various sectors.
Fedorov, who also serves as a deputy prime minister, emphasized that Ukraine needs a similar agency to “urgently reduce costs and evaluate efficiency” in its government projects. The minister stated that he would be looking for a person to lead this area, indicating the importance of having a dedicated individual at the helm.
**The US DOGE: A Controversial Initiative**
For those unfamiliar with the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), it’s worth noting that the agency has faced significant criticism and controversy since its inception. Established during the Trump administration, DOGE was tasked with slashing government spending and dismissing redundant staff. Billionaire Elon Musk, who headed the department until May 30, initially pledged to cut at least $2 trillion in federal spending.
Musk’s efforts, however, have been met with backlash from various quarters, including attacks on USAID, which provides vital humanitarian relief worldwide and funds numerous programs supporting human rights, democracy, education, civil society, and infrastructure development. Critics argue that DOGE’s actions have fallen short of its bold cost-cutting goals, with Musk reducing the initial aim of saving $2 trillion to a more modest target of $150 billion.
**Ukraine Faces Wartime Fiscal Pressure**
Fedorov’s announcement signals Ukraine’s intent to mirror aggressive streamlining policies in Kyiv as the country faces mounting wartime fiscal pressure. With its economy under strain due to Russia’s ongoing invasion, Ukraine seeks to optimize its government projects and reduce costs wherever possible.
While Ukraine’s decision to create a DOGE-like agency may be seen as bold, it also raises questions about the feasibility of such an initiative in a country already struggling with economic pressures. Will this move help Ukraine streamline its government projects and save costs, or will it lead to unintended consequences? Only time will tell.
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