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 America’s financial contributions to the United Nations.
At the same time, Trump has ordered the U.S. to withdraw from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestinians. The U.S. President also indicated a reevaluation of America’s relationship with UNESCO.
Previously, in 2018, during his first term, Trump withdrew the United States from the UNHRC. Former President Joe Biden reinstated America’s membership in 2021 after taking office.
Following Trump’s announcement, UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson, Stéphane Dujarric, stated, “Guterres has consistently worked on reforms to improve the efficiency and innovation of the United Nations.”
He further stated, “Thanks to US aid, the United Nations has been able to save countless lives and play a leading role in maintaining international security. In this overall turbulent global environment, the Secretary-General is eager to strengthen relations with President Trump and the United States.”
On the other hand, White House Staff Secretary Will Scharf has accused UN agencies of discriminatory behavior towards the US. He said, “Generally, this directive will lead to a reassessment of the relationship with the United Nations and the amount of aid provided by America compared to other countries.”
In this context, Trump has stated that the United Nations, while “highly potential,” is not being “properly managed.” He said, “The UN should be run on the funds of all countries, yet, as always, we are providing disproportionate contributions.”
Trump told reporters that the UN needs to “function properly.” He further added, “To be honest, the organization is not being properly managed. It is not doing its job correctly.”
LND/SAKIB
