The United States has taken another decisive step away from multilateral engagement, as President Donald Trump signed a memorandum ordering Washington’s withdrawal from dozens of international organizations, including several United Nations bodies, the White House announced on Wednesday (January 7).

According to the White House, the directive covers a total of 66 international organizations, 35 outside the UN system and 31 UN-affiliated entities. While the administration did not publish a detailed list, it argued that these organizations no longer align with US national interests and instead promote agendas that undermine American sovereignty and economic priorities.

In a statement, the White House said the decision followed a comprehensive review of all international intergovernmental organisations, treaties and conventions in which the US holds membership or party status. The review concluded that many of these bodies advance what it described as “globalist” or ideological programs at the expense of US interests.

“These withdrawals will end American taxpayer funding and involvement in entities that prioritise global agendas over US priorities or operate inefficiently,” the statement said, adding that the funds would be better used to support missions aligned with domestic and strategic goals.

According to a TRT report, the administration views several of these organizations as drivers of radical climate policies and expanded global governance frameworks that conflict with Washington’s vision of national autonomy and economic strength.

The move is consistent with Trump’s broader foreign policy approach since the start of his second term a year ago. His administration has already sharply reduced US financial contributions to the United Nations, suspended engagement with the UN Human Rights Council, and extended a freeze on funding for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA). The US has also formally exited UNESCO, the UN’s cultural agency.

In addition, Trump has announced plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization and once again pull the US out of the Paris climate agreement, reinforcing his long-standing skepticism toward multilateral institutions and global climate commitments.

The latest decision is expected to draw criticism from US allies and international partners, who argue that Washington’s retreat from global institutions could weaken collective responses to humanitarian, health, and environmental challenges.

BOB Post