The Trump administration has announced plans to withdraw the United States from 66 international organizations, including key United Nations agencies focused on population and climate issues. This significant move reflects an ongoing trend of distancing from global cooperation, as the administration has undertaken a review of U.S. participation and funding for international entities.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order suspending U.S. support for these organizations, which range from U.N. commissions on climate and labor to various non-U.N. groups such as the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance. In a statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio described these institutions as redundant, poorly managed, and potentially contrary to U.S. sovereignty and prosperity.
This decision aligns with a broader strategy that has seen the administration previously withdraw support from numerous international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, the U.N. Human Rights Council, and UNESCO. Experts like Daniel Forti from the International Crisis Group point out that this approach crystallizes a U.S. policy towards multilateralism that prioritizes national interests as defined by the Trump administration.
The withdrawal from the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is particularly notable, as this treaty underpins essential international climate agreements. Critics argue that this action may hinder global efforts to combat climate change and allow other nations to postpone their commitments to reducing greenhouse gases. Former White House National Climate Adviser Gina McCarthy lamented that the U.S. being the only country not part of the treaty is a “shortsighted” decision that could have significant economic repercussions.
In addition to retracting from major climate initiatives, the administration’s choice to cut ties with the U.N. Population Fund signifies continued resistance to organizations perceived as advancing agendas contrary to conservative values. The funding for this agency was previously restored by President Joe Biden following Trump’s cuts, marking a shift back towards global engagement in health and reproductive rights.
Overall, this latest round of withdrawals sends a clear message about the current administration’s approach to international relations, suggesting a preference for unilateral action over multilateral cooperation. The implications of such moves will likely be felt across various global challenges, especially in areas requiring collaborative efforts, like climate change and public health.