U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The order also calls for a review of U.S. funding allocations to the United Nations.
At the same time, Trump has directed the U.S. to withdraw from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). He has also hinted at reconsidering America’s relationship with UNESCO.
Previously, during his first term in 2018, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the UNHRC. However, former President Joe Biden reinstated U.S. membership in 2021 after taking office.
Following Trump’s announcement, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, stated, “Guterres has consistently worked on reforms to enhance the efficiency and innovation of the United Nations.”
He further added, “Thanks to U.S. support, the United Nations has been able to save countless lives and play a crucial role in maintaining international security. In this globally unstable situation, the Secretary-General is eager to strengthen relations with President Trump and the United States.”
Meanwhile, White House Staff Secretary Will Scharf accused UN agencies of discriminatory behavior against the U.S. He stated, “This order will allow us to reassess our relationship with the United Nations and the disproportionate funding the U.S. provides compared to other countries.”
In response to the situation, Trump remarked that while the UN has “great potential,” it is “not being managed properly.” He stated, “The United Nations should be funded by all countries equally. However, as always, we are making disproportionate contributions.”
Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized, “The UN must function properly. Frankly, it is not being managed correctly, nor is it fulfilling its duties as it should.”
He added, “Through our actions, we will resolve many disputes. At the very least, we should receive assistance in return. We never get any help. That should be the UN’s primary responsibility.”
From the beginning of his presidential campaign, Trump has been vocal about U.S. funding to multilateral organizations, including the UN. He has also pushed for increased contributions from other nations, particularly NATO member states.