The United States' decision to withdraw from 66 international organizations has ignited debates about the future of global governance, with experts warning of significant impacts on climate action and social inclusion programs. The move, formalized through a presidential memorandum this week, affects 31 UN entities and 35 non-UN organizations primarily focused on environmental protection, labor rights, and diversity initiatives.
Global Governance at Crossroads
Dr. Sun Taiyi, a U.S.-based political scientist, told CGTN the withdrawal reflects domestic political calculations rather than strategic reassessment. "This retreat from values like intergenerational responsibility and global solidarity risks reshaping international norms," Sun noted, highlighting potential funding shortages for sustainability programs and marginalized communities.
Filling the Vacuum
While temporary governance gaps are expected, Sun predicts existing frameworks will adapt through "order-succession rise" – where other nations gradually assume abandoned responsibilities. Climate governance and social inclusion programs face immediate challenges, given previous U.S. leadership in these areas.
China's Complementary Role
The expert highlighted China's growing potential to strengthen multilateral cooperation through initiatives emphasizing sovereign equality and people-centered development. "Rather than replacing existing systems, these efforts aim to enhance governance capacity within current institutions," Sun explained, particularly in climate action and public health cooperation.
Strategic Landscape Shifts
Analysts warn the withdrawals signal deeper changes in U.S. foreign policy toward transactional approaches and domestic political polarization. This trend accelerates global fragmentation, potentially leading to a more decentralized international system where leadership is shared among multiple actors.
