Context: On February 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). This decision was driven by concerns over perceived "anti-American bias" within this agency.

Implications of the U.S. Withdrawal:

·        Loss of Influence: The U.S. withdrawal diminishes its ability to influence human rights discussions and decisions within the council.

·        Reduced Scrutiny: Without active U.S. participation, there may be less rigorous scrutiny of human rights violations by other member states.

·        Isolationist Tendencies: The withdrawal reflects a shift towards isolationism, potentially reducing the U.S.'s role in global governance and international cooperation.

·        Impact on Allies: Allied nations may perceive the U.S. withdrawal as a retreat from multilateral commitments, affecting international relations and collaborative efforts.

·        Influence on Global Norms: The U.S. departure from these bodies may embolden other nations to question or withdraw from international agreements, potentially undermining global norms and standards.

About the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)

• Establishment: The UNHRC was established on March 15, 2006, replacing the Commission on Human Rights.
• Membership: It comprises 47 members, elected for three-year terms based on regional groups. Members serve one term before they are ineligible for immediate re-election.
• Functions:
• Investigating human rights violations in UN member states.
• Addressing critical thematic issues, including:
• Freedom of Expression and Assembly: Protecting individuals' rights to express themselves and assemble peacefully.
• Women's and LGBTI Rights: Promoting equality and safeguarding the rights of women and LGBTI individuals.
• Rights of Racial and Ethnic Minorities: Ensuring the protection of racial and ethnic minorities’ rights.

The U.S. withdrawal from the UNHRC limits its influence on global human rights issues and signals a retreat from international engagement, which could have lasting consequences for global cooperation and human rights standards.