Janice R. Andrews
In a significant move, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from key United Nations bodies, including the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the UN Relief Agency for Palestinians (UNRWA). The order also mandates a comprehensive review of US funding for the UN, citing concerns over disproportionate financial contributions and perceived anti-American bias within the organization.
This decision marks a continuation of Trump’s longstanding criticism of the UN, which he has accused of inefficiency and unfair treatment of the US. During his first term, Trump withdrew the US from the UNHRC in 2018, calling it a “hypocritical and self-serving” body. Although former President Joe Biden reinstated US membership in 2021, Trump’s latest action signals a renewed push to reassess America’s role in global multilateral institutions.
The executive order also targets US involvement in UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), with Trump emphasizing the need for other nations to increase their financial contributions. “The UN has tremendous potential, but it’s not being well run,” Trump told reporters. “It should be funded by everybody, but we’re disproportionate, as we always seem to be.”
White House staff secretary Will Scharf echoed these sentiments, stating that the order aims to address “wild disparities” in funding among member nations. Scharf also criticized the UN for what he described as an “anti-American bias,” a claim that has been a recurring theme in Trump’s rhetoric.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres responded to the announcement by highlighting the organization’s efforts to implement reforms and improve efficiency. His spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, emphasized the importance of US support, stating, “US funding for the United Nations has saved countless lives and advanced global security.” Guterres expressed hope for continued collaboration with the US government to strengthen the partnership.
Trump’s decision has sparked debate over the future of US leadership in global affairs. While supporters argue that the move prioritizes American interests and fiscal responsibility, critics warn that it could undermine international cooperation on critical issues such as human rights, conflict resolution, and humanitarian aid.
As the US ends its current term on the UNHRC on December 31, the implications of this withdrawal remain uncertain. However, one thing is clear: Trump’s latest action underscores his administration’s commitment to reshaping America’s role on the global stage, challenging the status quo of multilateral engagement. The UN, he said, must “get their act together” to fulfill its potential.
