US Withdraws from Multiple International Organizations Under Trump Administration

Significant Policy Shift

In a significant policy move, the United States under President Donald Trump's administration has announced its withdrawal from multiple international organizations and agreements. The decision, communicated through a memo to senior officials, encompasses 35 non-UN entities and 31 UN entities. Notable withdrawals include the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), described by many as the "cornerstone" climate agreement that served as the foundation for the 2015 Paris climate accord.

Key Entities Affected

The withdrawal decision impacts various critical international organizations, particularly those focused on climate change and gender equality. The UNFCCC withdrawal is particularly significant as it represents a major pillar of global climate governance. Other affected entities include UN bodies promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, which have been vocal about the importance of international cooperation on these issues.

Reactions and Implications

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from environmental and human rights organizations. Manish Bapna, President and CEO of the Natural Resources Defense Council, stated that the US would become the first country to leave the UNFCCC. This move marks a significant shift in US foreign policy under the Trump administration, emphasizing national interests over international cooperation in various domains.

Context and Background

The US had previously skipped the annual UN climate summit for the first time in three decades, signaling a pattern of disengagement from international climate efforts. The withdrawal from multiple international organizations suggests a broader trend of US isolationism under the current administration. This policy direction has implications not only for global governance but also for the US's role in addressing pressing international challenges.