Former US President Donald Trump has reignited debate over America’s role in global governance following renewed calls from his allies to withdraw the United States from dozens of international organizations if he returns to office. The move reflects Trump’s long-standing “America First” doctrine, which prioritizes national sovereignty over multilateral commitments.
During his previous term, the United States exited or reduced participation in several key global bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, the UN Human Rights Council, and the Paris Climate Agreement. Trump argued that many of these institutions were inefficient, unfairly funded by US taxpayers, or biased against American interests. His administration claimed withdrawals would save billions of dollars and allow Washington to pursue independent policies without external constraints.
Supporters of the strategy say international organizations often limit US freedom of action while delivering minimal tangible benefits. They argue that bilateral agreements and direct diplomacy are more effective than large multilateral forums. From this perspective, pulling out sends a strong message that the US will no longer bankroll institutions it believes are mismanaged or politically driven.
Critics, however, warn that widespread disengagement could weaken America’s global influence and create power vacuums filled by rivals such as China and Russia. Diplomats and policy experts stress that international bodies help shape global rules on health, trade, security, and climate—areas where US leadership has historically played a central role. Withdrawal, they argue, risks isolating Washington and undermining long-term strategic interests.
As the 2026 political landscape takes shape, Trump’s approach to international institutions remains a defining fault line in US foreign policy. Whether viewed as a bold assertion of sovereignty or a retreat from global leadership, the debate underscores a broader question: how deeply the United States should remain embedded in the world’s multilateral system.
