U.S. Withdraws From 66 International Organisations
President Donald Trump has directed the United States to withdraw from 66 international organisations, bodies, and treaties, a sweeping move that signals a significant shift in American foreign policy and global engagement. The decision was made through a White House presidential memorandum signed on 8 January 2026, which orders all executive departments and agencies to cease U.S. participation and funding in the listed organisations as soon as legally and practically possible.
Scope of the Withdrawals
The withdrawal covers:
31 United Nations‑affiliated entities
35 non‑UN organisations identified as “contrary to U.S. interests” by the White House
These bodies span climate policy, global governance, scientific cooperation, economic development, public health, and cultural initiatives.
Key Organisations Affected
Among those the U.S. will exit are:
The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the core treaty underpinning global climate agreements.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), a principal scientific body on climate research.
The International Solar Alliance (India‑France coalition on clean energy).
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), a major agency on reproductive health and development.
Additional organisations include climate, energy, migration, scientific, and trade bodies where the administration says U.S. involvement no longer aligns with national interests.
Administration’s Rationale
The White House stated the move is intended to end taxpayer funding and involvement in organisations deemed redundant, mismanaged, or advancing agendas that conflict with U.S. sovereignty, economic interests, or national security priorities. Officials argue this will allow the U.S. to prioritise domestic priorities and avoid “globalist bureaucracies”.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the decision, describing the targeted institutions as “anti‑American, unnecessary, and wasteful,” and said the review of other memberships is ongoing.
Global Backlash and Concern
The announcement has drawn widespread international criticism, particularly from environmental and climate experts who warn that the U.S. withdrawal from the UNFCCC and related bodies could weaken global climate action at a time of accelerating extreme weather and rising emissions. Critics argue that U.S. disengagement may slow international cooperation on climate mitigation and scientific research.
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Some legal experts also question whether a U.S. president can unilaterally withdraw from certain treaties and conventions that were ratified with Senate approval, suggesting potential legal challenges ahead.
