A seismic shift in U.S. foreign policy has emerged as President Donald Trump signs directives to withdraw from certain United Nations institutions, reorienting their international stance.
Quick Takes
- The U.S. is withdrawing from the U.N. Human Rights Council and ending funding for UNRWA.
- U.S. reevaluates its UNESCO membership citing disparities in funding levels.
- Executive orders announced during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.
- A comprehensive review of U.S. involvement in all international organizations and treaties is underway.
Details of the Directive
President Donald Trump announced withdrawal from the U.N. Human Rights Council and the cessation of funding to UNRWA, a relief agency for Palestinian refugees. This decision is primarily rooted in concerns over perceived inefficiencies and biases within these U.N. organizations. The announcement came during discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflecting shared concerns about potential anti-Israel biases.
The U.S. had previously left the Human Rights Council in 2018, citing similar accusations of bias. Trump’s directives now include a broader assessment of the U.S.’s role in UNESCO and other international organizations to ensure alignment with U.S. policies. This means scrutinizing funding disparities and advocating for fair treatment towards allies.
Today, @POTUS signed an Executive Order withdrawing the United States from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and prohibiting any future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for the Near East (UNRWA). The Executive Order also requires the Secretary of State to review and…
— Department of State (@StateDept) February 5, 2025
Financial and Strategic Implications
The U.S. contributes 22% of the U.N.’s regular budget, making it the organization’s largest single contributor. The withdrawal decision also involves reevaluating this significant contribution level. The action towards UNRWA follows allegations of links to Hamas, which the agency denies. Despite international consensus to restore funding after an independent review found no substantial ties, the U.S. remains firm on its current stance.
“I’ve always felt that the U.N. has tremendous potential. It’s not living up to that potential right now. … They’ve got to get their act together.” – Donald Trump
Trump’s plan includes halting funds to UNRWA and emphasizes scrutinizing other U.N. agencies where the U.S. sees inefficiency or anti-U.S. sentiment. The administration is clear that its review extends to all international treaties and agreements to ensure coherence with America’s national interests.
UN’s Reaction and Future Prospects
U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric has emphasized the crucial services the Human Rights Council and UNRWA provide, particularly to Palestinians. The U.N. stresses the importance of continued global cooperation and dialogue. How this will affect future U.S. participation in global governance remains to be seen, especially with President Joe Biden’s previous renewal of support for the Human Rights Council. Despite this, current U.S. actions are cementing a new era of U.S. relations with international organizations based on national interests.
Trump’s executive order to withdraw from these U.N. councils and agencies underscores his administration’s conviction to prioritize domestic over international spending when U.S. interests are not adequately met. This may pave the way for a reevaluation of global cooperation mechanisms.
Sources:
- Trump announces withdrawal from UN human rights body and halt to funding for Palestinian refugees
- Trump withdraws the U.S. from the United Nations Human Rights Council
- WITHDRAWING THE UNITED STATES FROM AND ENDING FUNDING TO CERTAIN UNITED NATIONS ORGANIZATIONS AND REVIEWING UNITED STATES SUPPORT TO ALL INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
