UNHRC Clarifies U.S. Exit Attempt as Symbolic Gesture
The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) has confirmed that the U.S. legally cannot withdraw from the body after its membership automatically expired on January 1, 2025. This follows U.S. leader Donald Trump’s executive order claiming withdrawal this week.
UNHRC spokesperson Pascal Sim stated that the U.S. served as a member from 2022–2024 and transitioned to an observer state role this year, like most UN members. "An observer cannot withdraw from a body it’s not part of," Sim emphasized, framing Trump’s announcement as a procedural impossibility.
A Rocky History With International Bodies
The U.S. previously exited the council in 2018 under Trump, rejoining under the Biden administration in 2022. The UNHRC has 47 rotating members, with countries serving staggered three-year terms. Observers retain participation rights but lack voting power.
The council’s statement reiterated its "spirit of multilateral dialogue," inviting all nations to engage constructively. Analysts suggest this highlights growing tensions between unilateral actions and global governance frameworks.
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U.S. cannot withdraw from a body it no longer belongs to, UNHRC says
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