In a recent public appearance, Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), openly ridiculed a $250 million U.S. Department of Labor initiative aimed at enhancing transparency in Uzbekistan’s cotton industry. Musk’s comments came during a press briefing where he questioned the rationale behind allocating substantial American taxpayer funds to foreign labor programs.
“Some of these things are so ridiculous you can’t believe it! Uzbek cotton farmers?! It sounds like a comedy sketch,” Musk remarked, eliciting laughter from the audience.
The program in question, titled “Enhancing Transparency and Accountability in the Cotton Industry of Uzbekistan,” was a collaborative effort between the U.S. Department of Labor, the Solidarity Center, and the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE). Launched in early 2024, the initiative aimed to build upon Uzbekistan’s recent reforms to eradicate forced and child labor in its cotton sector.
Activities under the program included developing worker-led grievance mechanisms, training on international labor standards, and fostering dialogue among stakeholders to promote labor rights and good corporate governance.
Uzbekistan, once notorious for state-imposed forced labor during cotton harvests, has made significant strides in reforming its cotton industry. By 2021, the International Labour Organization (ILO) confirmed the elimination of systemic forced labor in the sector, leading to the lifting of international boycotts and renewed interest from global brands.
The U.S.-funded program was part of broader efforts to support these reforms and integrate Uzbekistan into ethical global supply chains.
However, Musk’s Doge department has been critical of such international aid programs, labeling them as “America last” initiatives.
In March 2025, Doge announced the cancellation of approximately $577 million in grants for international labor rights programs, including the Uzbekistan cotton transparency initiative. The decision has faced backlash from labor groups and human rights organizations, who argue that these cuts undermine efforts to combat labor abuses and support ethical labor practices globally.
Critics contend that the abrupt termination of these programs could jeopardize the progress made in countries like Uzbekistan and potentially reintroduce unethical labor practices into global supply chains. Supporters of the cuts, however, argue that U.S. taxpayer funds should prioritize domestic concerns over international aid.
