President Trump Withdraws US from Key UN Organizations

Typewriter typing "Executive Order" on paper.

President Donald Trump signs executive orders to withdraw the United States from key UN organizations, citing concerns over bias and misalignment with national interests.

Top Takeaways

Trump orders U.S. withdrawal from UN Human Rights Council and cessation of funding for UNRWA.
Executive action includes review of U.S. involvement in UNESCO and overall UN funding.
Decision based on perceived anti-Israel bias and misalignment with U.S. interests.
Broader review of all international organizations and treaties involving the U.S. to be conducted.

Trump Takes Bold Action on UN Involvement

In a series of executive orders, President Donald Trump has announced the United States’ withdrawal from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the termination of funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This move marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and its relationship with key international organizations.

The decision comes after longstanding concerns about the UNHRC’s perceived bias against Israel and allegations of UNRWA’s ties to terrorist organizations. Trump’s actions reinforce his administration’s stance on prioritizing U.S. interests in international affairs and ensuring that American involvement in global organizations aligns with national priorities.

Today, @POTUS signed an Executive Order withdrawing the United States from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and prohibiting any future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for the Near East (UNRWA). The Executive Order also requires the Secretary of State to review and…

— Department of State (@StateDept) February 5, 2025

Reassessing U.S. Involvement in UN Organizations

The executive orders go beyond the UNHRC and UNRWA, calling for a comprehensive review of U.S. involvement in UNESCO and overall UN funding. This broader examination aims to address disparities in funding levels among member countries and ensure that American contributions are justified and beneficial to U.S. interests.

“I’ve always felt that the U.N. has tremendous potential. It’s not living up to that potential right now. … They’ve got to get their act together.” – Donald Trump

The United States currently contributes 22% of the UN’s regular budget, the largest share among member nations. Trump’s administration has consistently called for more equitable burden-sharing and a reevaluation of America’s financial commitments to international organizations.

Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy

This decisive action by President Trump signals a continued commitment to his “America First” approach to foreign policy. By withdrawing from organizations perceived to be acting contrary to U.S. interests, the administration aims to redirect resources and focus on initiatives that more closely align with national priorities.

The decision to withdraw from the UNHRC and defund UNRWA has been met with support from those who have long criticized these organizations for their stance on Israel. However, it has also raised concerns about the potential impact on humanitarian efforts in the Palestinian territories and the U.S. role in global human rights advocacy.

Looking Ahead: A Comprehensive Review

Perhaps the most far-reaching aspect of Trump’s executive orders is the mandate for a broader review of all international organizations and treaties in which the United States is involved. This comprehensive assessment aims to ensure that America’s international commitments and partnerships are fully aligned with its national interests and values.

As the administration moves forward with this review process, it remains to be seen how these actions will reshape America’s role on the global stage and its relationships with international organizations. What is clear, however, is that President Trump’s executive orders represent a significant recalibration of U.S. foreign policy priorities and a bold statement about America’s expectations for its involvement in multilateral institutions.