Trump signs order withdrawing US from UN agencies
Updated: Feb 5th, 2025
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order outlining the country’s withdrawal from several United Nations (UN) agencies and ceasing financial contributions to others.
The decision was based on concerns that some UN organisations allegedly act against US interests and propagate anti-Semitism while shielding human rights abusers.
The order directs the immediate termination of US participation in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC), which Trump described as a body that protects rights violators instead of holding them accountable.
The order also mandates a review of the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). The review, which is set to be completed within 90 days, will evaluate whether UNESCO supports American interests, particularly examining alleged anti-Israel bias and anti-Semitic behavior within the organisation.
Additionally, the US will completely halt funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which Trump claimed has links to terrorist groups and involvement in the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.
Under the order, the State Department has 180 days to review all international treaties and organisations the US supports to determine whether they align with American interests. The Secretary of State will report findings to the President.
The decision signals a broader shift in US foreign policy, with Trump vowing to put American interests above what he described as the UN’s disloyal and biased agenda.
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