United States reevaluate their commitment to the UN Human Rights Council

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in February 2025, in which he requires reevaluation of their commitment to the Human Rights Council. However, no commitment has been made since 2018, when the U.S. decided to withdraw the Council. The Council is made of 47 Member States, which are elected by the majority of members of the General Assembly of the United Nations. 

The Human Rights Council provides a forum where states can deliberate on human rights concerns and bring to light gross violations through investigations. It is crucial in promoting accountability and holding governments responsible for their actions. The executive order accuses “some” of the United Nations bodies and agencies of propagating anti-Semitism and harming U.S. interests. 

The order explicitly mentioned the Human Rights Council; as well as the Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). It is set to conduct a review of UNESCO membership within three months from the executive order which was issued on 3rd February, 2025. 

Amanda Klasing, National Director of Government Relations and Advocacy with Amnesty International USA, stated that the order demonstrates Trump’s flagrant disregard for human rights and international cooperation. She reiterated the need for collaboration and collective action to defend human rights in a multilateral world. She pointed out that  President Trump's actions send a message to the rest of the world that the U.S. is content with handing over crucial decisions on human rights abuses to other nations. Even if the U.S. is not present, the human rights institutions will continue to do their job.