US Withdraws from UN Human Rights Council
Source:Â http://www.richportaltv.com
The US withdraws from the UN Human Rights Council and cuts funding for key international bodies. In a major shift in US foreign policy, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and halting funding for several UN programs, including the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). The decision aligns with the administration’s broader strategy of reducing US commitments to multilateral organizations that it deems unfavorable to its interests.
Rationale behind the withdrawal
According to the White House, the UNHRC has failed to uphold its mandate, becoming a “safe haven for human rights violators” rather than an effective body for global justice. US officials have long criticized the council for allowing countries with questionable human rights records to hold seats and influence its policies. The Trump administration previously took issue with the council’s focus on Israel, arguing that it unfairly singles out the US ally while ignoring abuses committed by other nations.
Regarding UNRWA, the White House alleged that the agency had been “infiltrated by terrorists” and that some of its staff had connections to the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. These claims have been met with international skepticism, as UNRWA plays a critical role in providing humanitarian aid, education, and healthcare to millions of Palestinian refugees. Nonetheless, the administration’s move aligns with its pro-Israel stance and broader skepticism toward the UN’s handling of Middle East affairs.
Implications of the decision
The US contributes a significant portion of UN funding, and its withdrawal from these organizations will have immediate financial consequences. The UNHRC will lose a major backer, potentially weakening its ability to operate effectively. UNRWA, already struggling with budget deficits, will face an even greater financial crisis, threatening essential services for Palestinian refugees in the West Bank, Gaza, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria.
Moreover, the decision signals a broader reassessment of US involvement in international institutions. The administration has also announced plans to review its participation in UNESCO, citing concerns over alleged anti-US bias and inefficiencies. These moves reflect a trend of unilateralism, emphasizing national sovereignty over international cooperation.
International reactions
Reactions to the decision have been sharply divided. US allies in Europe have expressed concern that Washington’s disengagement will weaken global human rights protections. The UN Secretary-General called the move “deeply regrettable,” warning that it undermines efforts to promote international accountability. Meanwhile, Israeli officials welcomed the decision, seeing it as a pushback against what they perceive as UN bias.
As the US scales back its commitments to global governance institutions, the long-term effects remain uncertain. While supporters argue that these organizations have long been ineffective and politicized, critics warn that withdrawing US influence could allow authoritarian regimes to exert greater control over international human rights mechanisms.