In a bold move that has captured international attention, US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from multiple United Nations bodies, a decision that marks a pivotal shift in America’s foreign policy. This order, which echoes similar actions Trump took during his first term in office, signals the administration’s frustration with what it perceives as bias and inefficiencies within the UN system. The withdrawal affects major UN entities, including the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), alongside a looming review of US funding for the entire UN system.
The US departure from the UNHRC is especially significant, as Trump had already pulled the country from this body in 2018. The decision was met with criticism at the time, but Trump has remained steadfast in his belief that the council, in particular, has exhibited an anti-American bias. The move to exit UNRWA, the UN agency responsible for Palestinian refugees, has further compounded tensions, with Trump pushing for a reevaluation of America’s role within UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
UN Secretary-General António Guterres responded to Trump’s latest executive order, acknowledging that the United Nations has undergone significant reforms under his leadership to increase operational efficiency and foster innovation. Guterres emphasized the United States’ vital role in global security and humanitarian efforts, citing the countless lives saved through US support and its contributions to international peacekeeping initiatives. Despite these challenges, Guterres expressed a willingness to continue a productive relationship with the US, underlining the importance of cooperation between Washington and the UN in today’s volatile geopolitical climate.
White House staff secretary Will Scharf defended Trump’s actions, asserting that there has been a consistent “anti-American bias” across several UN agencies. He also highlighted the need for a thorough review of US involvement in the UN, particularly regarding the disproportionate levels of funding that Washington contributes compared to other nations. Trump’s administration believes that the UN system should reflect fairer financial contributions from all its member states, without placing an undue burden on the US.
Trump himself has long criticized the United Nations for what he sees as inefficiencies in its operations. “The UN has tremendous potential, but it is not being well run,” Trump declared. He argued that the organization’s failure to resolve key global conflicts and to provide tangible support in these areas undermines its purpose. In his view, the United States has often been left to shoulder the bulk of responsibility, without receiving adequate support or cooperation from other member states.
Trump’s stance on multilateral organizations is consistent with his broader foreign policy agenda. He has been outspoken about the need for other nations, particularly European allies, to increase their financial contributions to NATO and other international bodies, which he believes should be more equitable and less dependent on the US. This latest executive order underscores his long-standing criticism of the UN’s financial structure, which he has called “out of balance.”
The departure of the United States from the UN Human Rights Council, while symbolic, may have lasting implications for international diplomacy and cooperation. It sends a clear message that the US is willing to challenge traditional multilateral structures in favor of a more independent approach to global governance. At the same time, it raises critical questions about the future of American contributions to international humanitarian efforts and peacekeeping missions.
As global observers watch the unfolding developments, the long-term impact of Trump’s decision remains uncertain. With the US set to review its financial commitments and participation in the United Nations, questions about the future of international cooperation, especially on issues such as human rights and conflict resolution, remain at the forefront.
This bold shift comes just as the United States finishes its current term with the UN Human Rights Council, ending on December 31. Moving forward, the implications of this decision for global diplomacy will depend largely on how other nations respond to America’s reevaluation of its role in the UN.
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