On February 4, 2025, former President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order withdrawing the U.S. from the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and halting all future funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This decision aligns with Trump’s long-standing criticism of certain UN bodies, which he claims promote anti-American sentiment and anti-Israel bias while failing in their core missions.
Key Actions Taken:
Exit from UNHRC:
The UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) was established in 2006 to promote and protect human rights globally, yet it has faced criticism for allowing authoritarian regimes like China, Iran, and Cuba to manipulate it for their own benefit. Trump argues that the council acts as a shield for human rights violators while disproportionately condemning Israel. Notably, in 2018, the UNHRC passed more resolutions against Israel than Syria, Iran, and North Korea combined.
Funding Ban on UNRWA:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was founded in 1949 to assist Palestinian refugees, but Trump’s administration has long accused it of corruption and ties to terrorism. The Executive Order cites recent reports revealing that some UNRWA employees were involved in the October 7th terrorist attacks on Israel. Additionally, UNRWA facilities have allegedly been used by Hamas to store weapons and construct tunnels, undermining peace efforts in the region.
Review of UNESCO and Other UN Organizations:
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), formed in 1945, is tasked with promoting education, culture, and heritage protection. However, UNESCO has been criticized for historical bias against Israel, particularly over resolutions ignoring Jewish ties to Jerusalem’s holy sites. Trump previously withdrew from UNESCO in 2017, and his new order mandates a fast-tracked review of the organization’s actions to determine if U.S. participation is justified.
Building on Past Decisions
Trump’s latest move reinforces his 2018 withdrawal from the UNHRC and his 2017 defunding of UNRWA, both of which were later reversed by President Joe Biden. Trump argues that his renewed withdrawal ensures the U.S. no longer funds organizations that undermine American values or support groups linked to terrorism.
What’s Next?
By cutting ties with these controversial UN bodies, Trump aims to reshape U.S. engagement with global institutions, prioritizing national sovereignty over multilateralism. His decision has sparked debate—supporters applaud his America First approach, while critics warn that it may reduce U.S. diplomatic influence and leave a power vacuum for adversaries like China and Russia to fill.
Whether this move strengthens U.S. foreign policy or isolates it on the world stage remains to be seen.
