By Twink Jones Gadama
In a move that has sent shockwaves around the world, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the United Nations’ Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the UN relief agency for Palestinians (UNRWA). The order also prompts a review of US funding for the United Nations.
This is not the first time Trump has taken aim at the UNHRC. In 2018, during his first term in office, he pulled the US out of the organization, citing concerns over its criticism of Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. However, former President Joe Biden reinstated the US’ membership in 2021.
The latest move has sparked widespread concern, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing his disappointment. “US support for the United Nations has saved countless lives and advanced global security,” his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said. “The Secretary-General looks forward to continuing his productive relationship with President Trump and the US Government to strengthen that relationship in today’s turbulent world.”
Trump’s executive order also targets the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), with the US intending to review its involvement in the organization. This move is seen as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reassert American sovereignty and reduce the country’s involvement in international organizations.
The implications of Trump’s move are far-reaching. The UNHRC plays a critical role in promoting and protecting human rights around the world, and the US withdrawal is likely to weaken the organization’s ability to hold countries accountable for human rights abuses.
Similarly, the UNRWA provides critical support to Palestinian refugees, and the US withdrawal is likely to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.
As the international community grapples with the implications of Trump’s move, one thing is clear: the US withdrawal from UN bodies is a significant setback for global cooperation and multilateralism.
