US Exits 66 International Organisations, Citing National Interest Concerns
Trump Administration Orders Major Withdrawal
The United States has announced its withdrawal from 66 international organisations, calling them “anti-American, wasteful, ineffective and harmful.” The decision follows an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump, further signaling Washington’s retreat from multilateral global cooperation.
According to a White House release, the move comes after a comprehensive review of US participation and funding in international bodies, including those affiliated with the United Nations. The review was conducted under Executive Order 14199, with additional organisations still under assessment.
White House Criticism of Global Institutions
The Trump administration stated that it would no longer send “the blood, sweat, and treasure of the American people” to institutions that offer little return or conflict with US interests. Officials argued that many global organisations have shifted away from their original missions of peace and cooperation and now promote ideological agendas.
The White House claimed that several institutions focus heavily on diversity, gender equity, and climate policies that undermine American sovereignty. It also accused a network of multilateral NGOs of advancing what it called a “globalist project,” adding that these structures restrict national decision-making.
UN Agencies and Climate Bodies Targeted
A large number of organisations affected by the decision are linked to the United Nations. These include agencies dealing with climate change, labour rights, migration, and humanitarian issues. Among the most significant exits is the withdrawal from the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the foundational treaty behind the Paris Climate Agreement.
Trump, who has repeatedly dismissed climate change concerns, previously withdrew the US from the Paris Agreement. The administration argues that climate-focused institutions impose economic burdens and limit domestic policy flexibility.
Pattern of US Withdrawal From Global Forums
This decision builds on earlier US exits from bodies such as the World Health Organisation, UNRWA, UNESCO, and the UN Human Rights Council. The administration has adopted a selective approach to international engagement, choosing only those forums it believes align with US priorities.
Analysts say the move reflects a broader shift in US multilateral policy. Daniel Forti of the International Crisis Group described it as a “my way or the highway” approach to global cooperation.
Global Impact and Criticism
Critics warn that the withdrawals could weaken international efforts to address shared global challenges, particularly climate change. Former US climate adviser Gina McCarthy called the decision shortsighted and damaging to America’s global influence.
Climate scientists have also warned that US disengagement may slow global action on emissions reduction, as the country remains one of the world’s largest economies and greenhouse gas emitters.
Despite criticism, Trump administration officials maintain that the US will continue engaging selectively, especially in forums where competition with China remains a strategic concern. Follow for more updates, FM News.
