On February 4, 2025, President Trump formally signed an executive order initiating a comprehensive review of U.S. funding and participation in the United Nations, a move that has the potential to alter America's longstanding leadership within this vital international institution. In remarks preceding the signing in the Oval Office, President Trump stated his belief in the U.N.'s "tremendous potential," while simultaneously voicing his dissatisfaction with how the organization has been operating, claiming it is "not living up to that potential right now."
Along with the new executive order, President Trump announced the withdrawal of the United States from the U.N.'s Human Rights Council and halted financial support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian assistance within Gaza. This decision reflects a continuation of policies that were initiated during Trump's first term, where he previously severed ties with both entities.
The new order also includes a review of U.S. involvement in the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), citing allegations from the White House staff that the organization demonstrates “anti-American bias.” The staff secretary, Will Scharf, mentioned that the order's motivation stemmed from a perceived "wild disparity" in funding levels across differing countries, which Trump found "deeply unfair."
In response to these significant changes, Stéphane Dujarric, a spokesman for the U.N., emphasized that U.S. support has been pivotal in enhancing global security. He expressed hope that U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres could maintain a constructive relationship with President Trump and the U.S. government amid global uncertainties.
As the U.N. braces itself for Trump's second term, it reflects on the tumultuous interactions experienced during his initial four years in office, navigating challenges while largely avoiding public confrontations with the Trump administration.
