President Donald J. Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the withdrawal of the United States from 66 international organisations, including both non-United Nations entities and several UN-related bodies.
The memorandum calls for the cessation of U.S. participation and funding for 35 non-UN organisations and 31 UN entities that are seen as undermining national interests, security, economic prosperity, or sovereignty. This decision comes after Washington says it carried out a comprehensive review of U.S. membership in global organisations, treaties, and conventions.
The move reflects a clear commitment to protecting American taxpayers, ensuring their money is spent on domestic priorities.
Many of these international organisations have been criticised for promoting agendas that conflict with U.S. sovereignty, economic interests, and national security. The funding withdrawal targets bodies that have been deemed inefficient or ineffective in addressing issues of importance to the U.S. government and citizens.
President Trump has consistently advocated for reducing the influence of international organisations that he says interfere with the U.S.'s ability to make independent decisions. The latest pullbacks align with past actions, such as the withdrawal from the World Health Organisation and the Paris Climate Agreement, both of which he initiated upon his return to office.
In addition, his administration acted on day one by rejecting the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's (OECD) Global Tax Deal, and launched an investigation into tax rules abroad that may negatively impact American companies. Furthermore, President Trump withdrew the U.S. from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and blocked future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for the Near East (UNRWA).
Through these actions, President Trump says he's directed the U.S. government to focus resources on domestic issues, such as infrastructure, military readiness, and border security, preventing, he says, foreign interference in U.S. economic activities. UN's Response
Secretary-General of the UN, Antonio Guteress has expressed regret over the withdrawal announcement. The UN emphasised that contributions to the regular and peacekeeping budgets are legally binding under the UN Charter for all member states, including the United States.
Despite the U.S. withdrawal, the UN affirmed that its agencies will continue implementing their mandates as prescribed by member states. The organisation stressed its commitment to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to it by the international community, regardless of the U.S.'s decision to step back.
While this marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, the UN says it's determined to continue its work and carry out its mission with the full support of the other member states.
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