President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and ceasing funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
The order also mandates a review of U.S. involvement in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
White House staff secretary Will Scharf cited “anti-American bias” at UN agencies as the primary reason for these actions. The U.S. currently holds observer status in the UNHRC, which is composed of 47 member nations elected for three-year terms, with its latest term concluding on December 31.
Trump criticized the UN’s management, stating it has “tremendous potential” but is “not being well run.” He emphasized that funding should be more equitable among member states, highlighting longstanding concerns about U.S. financial contributions to multilateral organizations.
The UNRWA plays a crucial role in providing aid to Palestinian refugees, many of whom are dependent on its services amid ongoing conflicts. Trump’s administration previously supported efforts to restrict funding to the agency following allegations of staff involvement in attacks against Israel.
This latest executive order reflects similar actions taken during Trump’s first term, including withdrawals from various international agreements and organizations.
